Aurangzeb, PBC team discuss economic situation

ISLAMABAD: Federal Minister for Finance and Revenue Senator Muhammad Aurangzeb on Thursday held a meeting with a delegation of the Pakistan Business Council (PBC), led by its Vice Chairman, Ziad Bashir.

The Finance Minister briefed the participants on the government’s ongoing efforts to manage evolving global economic challenges, particularly disruptions in energy markets, supply chains, and food security.

He highlighted the government’s close coordination across key ministries and institutions, including daily reviews of petroleum supply, pricing, logistics, and broader economic implications.

The Minister underscored that Pakistan is navigating a complex global environment marked by rising energy costs and supply constraints, while also facing emerging challenges in food security and fertilizer availability.

READ MORE: Aurangzeb unveils tariff overhaul plan to strengthen industry

He noted that the government remains actively engaged with international counterparts and development partners to ensure stability and continuity.

The PBC delegation appreciated the government’s efforts in stabilizing the economy under challenging circumstances and expressed full support for national economic priorities. The delegation presented key issues and proposals aimed at improving competitiveness, enhancing exports, and strengthening the formal economy.

Key areas discussed included the importance of strengthening economic fundamentals, enhancing competitiveness, and creating an enabling environment for sustainable growth. The delegation shared perspectives on improving the overall business climate, addressing structural challenges, and ensuring a more balanced and efficient taxation framework. Broader issues related to the functioning of the economy and the need for continued reforms were also highlighted.

The Finance Minister acknowledged the challenges and reiterated the government’s commitment to undertaking structural reforms, including rationalizing the tax system, improving compliance through digitization and faceless processes, and reducing discretionary powers. He informed the participants that reforms are being pursued in coordination with relevant stakeholders and supported by leading economists and advisory bodies to strengthen the macroeconomic framework.

Both sides also discussed opportunities arising from the current global situation, including attracting investment, facilitating capital inflows, and positioning Pakistan as a competitive regional hub. The Minister emphasized the importance of leveraging these opportunities while maintaining macroeconomic stability.

The meeting concluded with a shared commitment to continued engagement between the government and the business community to promote sustainable economic growth, enhance exports, and improve the overall business environment in Pakistan.

The delegation comprised prominent business leaders, including Ziad Bashir (Director, Gul Ahmed Textile), Azam Faruque (CEO, Cherat Cement Company Limited), Abdul Samad Dawood (Director, Engro Holdings Limited), Danish Ali Lakhani (CEO, Cyber Internet), Muhammad Arif Habib (Chairman, Fatima Fertilizer Company Limited), Rizwan Diwan (Director, Gatron Industries Limited), Ms. Saira Awan Malik (President, TCS Pvt. Limited), Samir Chinoy (CEO, International Industries Limited), Yousaf Hussain (President & CEO, Faysal Bank Limited), Javed Kureishi (CEO, Pakistan Business Council), and Saud Bangash (Resident Director, PBC). M. Ali Tabba and Rizwan Diwan participated in the meeting via video link.

Copyright Business Recorder, 2026