ISLAMABAD, October 19, 2026: Pakistan is targeting economic growth of more than 4% and aims to raise approximately $1 billion through privatisation, according to comments by Finance Minister Muhammad Aurangzeb reported by Reuters on October 12.
Growth ambitions amid global uncertainty
The minister’s outlook comes as Pakistan faces pressure from higher energy costs and the need to strengthen public finances. The growth figure is a target or expectation, not an already achieved annual result.
Privatisation plans
Government plans to sell stakes in state-owned enterprises are intended to attract investment and reduce fiscal pressures. The $1 billion figure is an anticipated proceeds target; actual receipts will depend on transactions completing and market conditions.
Risks to the outlook
Energy prices, external financing, investment, tax collection and the global economic environment could all influence the outcome. GulfInside will report confirmed privatisation deals and official growth data as they become available.
Source: Reuters, October 12, 2026, reporting on Finance Minister Muhammad Aurangzeb’s economic outlook.
