Pakistan targets $100 billion exports by 2035, corporate sector urged to lead: Ahsan Iqbal

Pakistan aims to achieve $100 billion in exports by 2035, Federal Minister for Planning, Development and Special Initiatives Ahsan Iqbal said Thursday, calling on the corporate sector to play a central role in meeting the target.

Speaking at the CEO Summit, which included the launch of 100 CEOs and Diplomats of Pakistan and the CEO Award ceremony, Iqbal said boosting exports by $20 billion over the next four years is essential to reduce dependence on IMF financing. The summit, organized by CEO Club Pakistan and World CEO Forum under the theme Turn the Tide – Reimagine Pakistan 2030, brought together top economists, business leaders, and executives.

Iqbal identified agriculture, industry, services, IT, mining, blue economy, manpower, and creative industries as key sectors capable of driving export growth. He said Pakistan’s main challenge is overcoming “mental barriers” that undermine confidence, despite the country’s abundant natural resources and resilient workforce.

He highlighted fiscal and economic achievements under Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, noting that inflation fell from 38% to 5%, the policy rate dropped from 23% to 10.5%, the stock market reached 190,000 points, and the PIA privatization process concluded successfully. Multipronged government measures are underway to expand the tax base, reduce power tariffs, strengthen export financing, and support private sector growth.

Iqbal likened private companies to “warriors of Pakistan’s economic services” and urged them to embed productivity, quality, and innovation to “win the Ma’raka-e-Maeeshat.”

On Karachi-specific issues, he said provinces now manage the major share of the divisible pool and are responsible for public services. He cited federal projects, including the Green Line BRT and K-IV water supply, while urging proactive provincial action to address city challenges.

Other speakers at the summit included former SBP Governor Dr Ishrat Husain, Akhuwat Foundation founder Dr Muhammad Amjad Saqib, Banking Ombudsman Sirajuddin Aziz, and CEO Club Pakistan and World CEO Forum president Ijaz Nisar.