PTI sets up economic think tank in KP

ISLAMABAD: Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) has set up a dedicated economics think tank to prepare practical proposals and policy measures aimed at improving the economy of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, according to a statement issued by the party’s secretary general.

The party said the body will be led by former Khyber Pakhtunkhwa finance minister Taimur Saleem Khan Jhagra and will work on research, consultations with economists and policy formulation in line with the vision of PTI founder and former prime minister Imran Khan.

According to the official announcement, the Economics Think Tank will function under Jhagra’s leadership. All members of the party’s Finance and Economic Working Group will be part of it, while the secretary general and information secretary will serve on the body in their official capacities.

The statement added that other PTI members with relevant expertise will also be able to contribute, and the forum may seek input from outside economic specialists when needed.

Mandate and structure

Under the mandate outlined in the announcement, the think tank will consult leading economists on major reforms, organise debates to gather a range of views, carry out detailed research and serve as a link between the party and relevant institutions.

Its central objective is to prepare broad policy recommendations focused on economic stabilisation, growth and sustainable development, in keeping with Imran Khan’s stated emphasis on self-reliance, transparency and public welfare.

The move represents a more structured effort by the party to respond to continuing economic difficulties through what it described as evidence-based reforms.

Party sources described the initiative as a proactive step intended to help build a stronger economic framework for future governance. By bringing together experienced policymakers, including Jhagra, and technical experts, PTI aims to formulate workable strategies to address inflation, encourage investment, improve revenue collection and support inclusive growth.

Economic backdrop

The development comes as Pakistan continues to face economic strain, including elevated inflation, debt servicing pressures and the need for structural reforms.

PTI’s new forum is expected to prepare policy papers and recommendations that could help shape the party’s economic agenda in the years ahead.

Jhagra previously served as Khyber Pakhtunkhwa’s finance minister and health minister. The party said the think tank would focus on producing practical and research-based proposals for the province’s economy while drawing on expert consultation where required.

The announcement did not specify a timeline for the release of the think tank’s recommendations, but said the body would work on policy development and consultation as part of its role.