Annual publication: IBA launches ‘The State of Pakistan’s Economy 2026-27’

KARACHI: IBA Centre for Business and Economic Research (CBER) launched its flagship annual publication, ‘The State of Pakistan’s Economy 2026–27: Stagnation to Sustainability,’ at IBA Main Campus. The launch event brought together policymakers, academics, business leaders, development practitioners, and students to discuss Pakistan’s economic challenges and pathways towards sustainable and inclusive growth.

The book was reviewed by distinguished panelists, including Zafar Masud, President & CEO, Bank of Punjab, and Nadia Seth, CEO, SMEDA (Small & Medium Enterprises Development Authority), who shared their perspectives on the report and Pakistan’s economic outlook.

Speaking at the review, Zafar stressed that macroeconomic stability must translate into better living standards, jobs, stronger human capital, and poverty reduction. He highlighted the need for effective implementation, innovative financing, public-private partnerships, and productivity-driven growth, describing IBA’s State of Economy publication as an important contribution to Pakistan’s policy discourse.

Nadia highlighted the need to improve SME productivity through modernization, greater formalization, and better access to finance. She also stressed the importance of reliable, updated enterprise data to support stronger, evidence-based policymaking.

The launch concluded with a shared emphasis on translating economic stability into sustainable, inclusive, and productivity-led growth. Through the State of Pakistan’s Economy 2026–27, CBER continues to contribute to informed policy dialogue by bringing together research, evidence, and perspectives from academia, industry, and the public sector.

Copyright Business Recorder, 2026