The Economic Coordination Committee (ECC), chaired by Finance Minister Muhammad Aurangzeb, approved several financial measures, including a bailout package for Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) and funding for various government institutions. The committee was briefed on recent economic indicators by the chief economist of the planning ministry, who highlighted signs of price stabilization following a period of volatility.
Weekly data from the Sensitive Price Index (SPI) indicated a slowdown in inflation after a brief rise, with prices of key commodities such as tomatoes, onions, wheat flour, garlic, LPG, and sugar showing declines. Meanwhile, items like eggs, chicken, pulses, cooking oil, bread, and milk experienced only slight price increases. These improvements were attributed to enhanced supply chain monitoring and strengthened price oversight mechanisms, including efforts by the National Price Monitoring Committee.
The ECC noted that these developments reflect a gradual stabilization of prices, crediting coordinated actions between federal and provincial authorities for improving the government’s capacity to manage localized disruptions. The committee emphasized that ongoing policy responses and monitoring are essential to sustain this positive trend.
In terms of funding approvals, the ECC sanctioned Rs100 million for the Cannabis Control and Regulatory Authority to support its operational and infrastructure needs. Additionally, Rs311 million was allocated for a special incentive package for civil service officers serving in Balochistan, and Rs372 million was approved for the National Accountability Bureau to advance digital transformation and implement artificial intelligence-based systems.
In a notable move, the committee also approved Rs30 million in rewards for Pakistan’s national hockey team in recognition of their qualification for the FIH Hockey World Cup after an eight-year gap.
The ECC sanctioned a Rs5.985 billion bailout for Pakistan International Airlines Holding Company Limited to address the airline’s liabilities. This funding is designated for salary payments, pensions, and medical reimbursements. However, payments involving the National Insurance Company Limited will be adjusted in accordance with audit recommendations.
On the trade front, the committee approved amendments to the Import Policy Order to ban imports of goods produced through forced labor, aligning Pakistan’s trade regulations with International Labour Organization conventions. It also authorized a pilot scheme permitting the temporary import of used vehicles and auto parts for repair and refurbishment, with the condition of re-export within a year, subject to review.
Further approvals included proposals related to the export of donkey meat and hides from Gwadar, as well as the disposal of existing inventories under applicable regulations. A proposal concerning power sector agreements was deferred to a cabinet committee for additional review.
The meeting was attended by senior federal ministers and officials from relevant ministries and regulatory bodies, underscoring the government’s commitment to economic stabilization and institutional support.
