The Federation of Pakistan Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FPCCI) has unveiled the National Economic Think Tank (NETT) to address Pakistan’s pressing economic challenges and spearhead long-term growth initiatives. The think tank was introduced at a press conference led by former caretaker Commerce Minister Gohar Ejaz, United Business Group (UBG) head S.M. Tanveer, and FPCCI Senior Vice President Saqib Fayyaz Magoon.
According to Ejaz, the NETT will be chaired by former caretaker Prime Minister Anwaar-ul-Haq Kakar, with former caretaker Finance Minister Shamshad Akhtar serving as CEO, and Bashir Jan Muhammad as the chairman. Comprising 40 experts from diverse fields, the think tank aims to drive the implementation of Vision 2030, which includes an ambitious goal of achieving a 10% annual growth rate and increasing Pakistan’s exports to $100 billion.
Ejaz highlighted the inconsistent policy landscape as a major impediment to Pakistan’s economic progress, noting that the country’s exports had only modestly increased from $23 billion to $27.5 billion over the past 11 years. “Had exports grown by 10% annually, we would have reached $60 billion by now,” he pointed out.
S.M. Tanveer emphasized the urgency of resolving issues related to independent power producers (IPP), while Shamshad Akhtar outlined NETT’s mission to function as an independent body identifying critical national economic issues. Akhtar stressed the importance of public-private partnerships, investment-friendly policies, and a shift away from subsidies toward incentives to boost growth.
Industry leaders also voiced concerns over rising electricity costs, with Bashir Jan Muhammad citing it as one of the biggest challenges facing Pakistan’s industrial and trade sectors. Gohar Ejaz called for comprehensive reforms, envisioning Pakistan as the fifth-largest global economy.
During the event, Ejaz announced the creation of a new board to steer national policy, naming Shamshad Akhtar as a board member. He also pledged Rs1 billion to establish a top-tier university in Karachi, aiming to transform the city into an academic hub.
“The government’s role is not to run businesses but to create a conducive environment where businesses can thrive,” Ejaz concluded.
