Arif Habib Plans Major Investment in Pakistan’s Blue Economy

According to Business Recorder, businessman Arif Habib held a high-level meeting with the management of the Pakistan National Shipping Corporation (PNSC).

The primary objective of the proposed investment is to drive national development by utilizing Pakistan’s vast marine resources. Currently, these resources remain largely untapped, contributing only 0.5% to the national GDP.

The PNSC aims to increase its fleet from 10 to 54 vessels by 2030, targeting an annual investment of $6 billion.

PIA Revival Roadmap

While presenting the roadmap for PIA’s revival, Arif Habib stated:

“All 34 aircraft will be operational by September 2026, compared to only 17 at present.”

He further detailed that out of the Rs 135 billion purchase price, Rs 125 billion will be directly invested in PIA for engine procurement and fleet expansion. To support this growth, additional experts will be recruited strictly on a merit-based system.

Economic Impact

The privatization of PIA serves as a major milestone in the country’s broader economic reform agenda, aimed at reducing the government deficit. Similarly, reforms and investments in the Blue Economy are essential for economic recovery; innovation in this sector is expected to create significant employment opportunities.