Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Thursday urged authorities to fast-track the privatisation of state-owned enterprises (SOEs) in Pakistan, especially those adding to the national exchequer’s burden. Chairing a high-level meeting, he instructed officials to hire globally recognised experts to ensure transparent and profitable deals that protect national interests.
The prime minister stressed that the privatisation of state-owned enterprises should boost institutional strength and efficiency. He said the process must follow national priorities, not bureaucratic hurdles. Warning against red tape and delays, he made it clear that negligence would not be tolerated.
Shehbaz Sharif announced that he would personally monitor the privatisation drive through regular progress reviews. This, he said, would guarantee transparency, accountability, and timely reform. During the meeting, officials reported progress on 15 of the 24 SOEs identified for privatisation.
The prime minister directed authorities to prioritise loss-making and inefficient institutions to reduce financial pressure on the economy. Moreover, he called for a clear post-privatisation strategy to build institutional capacity and ensure long-term sustainability.
Federal ministers Ahad Cheema and Awais Leghari, along with Minister of State for Finance Bilal Kayani and senior officials, attended the meeting. They discussed ways to attract credible investors, improve governance, and achieve sustainable economic growth.
By speeding up the privatisation of SOEs, the government aims to revive underperforming entities, cut fiscal losses, and strengthen investor confidence in Pakistan’s economic reforms.
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