ISLAMABAD: Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Monday instructed the concerned authorities to accelerate the establishment of a private equity fund designed to enhance private sector investment, support small and medium enterprises (SMEs), and promote sustainable economic growth across Pakistan.
During a review meeting focused on private investment and macroeconomic stability, Sharif urged officials to develop a detailed roadmap aimed at strengthening both public equity markets and alternative private equity avenues. This initiative seeks to expand the pool of investment capital and facilitate increased foreign direct investment (FDI) into the country.
Highlighting the importance of private investment for national economic advancement, the prime minister emphasized that private equity funds are crucial for injecting capital, expanding businesses, and creating employment opportunities. He identified key sectors such as minerals, agriculture, livestock, energy, and information technology as vital growth drivers, underscoring the need for public equity markets to play a central role in financing development within these areas.
Addressing current financial challenges, Sharif pointed out that long-term commercial financing through banks remains limited. He stressed the urgent need to develop alternative investment instruments to overcome these constraints and support economic progress.
“The government is committed to implementing measures that build Pakistan’s economy on robust and sustainable foundations by promoting private-sector-led investment, industrial growth, and export expansion,” he added.
The meeting was attended by Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar, Minister of State for Finance Bilal Azhar Kayani, Special Assistant to the Prime Minister Haroon Akhtar, along with officials from relevant ministries and financial institutions.
