Shehbaz Sharif orders fast-track privatization of loss-making SOEs

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has instructed authorities to expedite the privatization of loss-making and inefficient state-owned enterprises (SOEs), stressing that any delay or bureaucratic hurdles would not be tolerated.

Chairing a review meeting on Thursday, the prime minister said the process must serve the national interest and should avoid institutional and administrative complexities that have historically slowed down reforms. He also announced that he would personally monitor the progress, with regular meetings to ensure transparency and speed.

During the session, officials briefed the premier on the privatization progress of 15 out of the 24 SOEs currently under consideration. The prime minister emphasized that these entities, which continue to burden the national exchequer, should be divested as soon as possible.

To strengthen the process, Shehbaz directed the engagement of globally renowned experts and called for a comprehensive strategy focused on capacity building of state enterprises.

The meeting was attended by federal ministers Ahad Khan Cheema and Sardar Awais Ahmad Khan Leghari, Minister of State for Finance Bilal Azhar Kiyani, and other senior government officials.