PM Shehbaz Directs Fast-Tracking of Private Equity Fund

ISLAMABAD: Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Monday directed the relevant authorities to speed up the establishment of a private equity fund to increase private sector investment, support small and medium enterprises (SMEs), and promote sustainable economic growth in Pakistan.

Chairing a meeting on private investment and macroeconomic stability, the prime minister asked officials to prepare a detailed roadmap to strengthen public equity markets and develop alternative private equity channels.

The initiative aims to increase the availability of investment funds and help attract more foreign direct investment (FDI) to the country.

“Fostering private investment is essential for the country’s economic progress,” Sharif said during the meeting.

He said private equity funds can help bring more capital into the economy, expand businesses and create new job opportunities.

The prime minister identified minerals, agriculture, livestock, energy and information technology as key sectors with strong growth potential. He said public equity markets should play an important role in providing funds for development in these sectors.

Sharif also pointed out that bank financing for long-term business investment remains limited. He stressed that promoting alternative investment options is now an urgent need for Pakistan’s economy.

“The government is prioritizing measures that build Pakistan’s economy on strong and sustainable foundations through private-sector-led investment, industrial expansion, and export growth,” Sharif added.

Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar, Minister of State for Finance Bilal Azhar Kayani, Special Assistant to the PM Haroon Akhtar and officials from relevant ministries and financial institutions also attended the meeting.