PBC proposes up to $1.9bn export push to finance minister

ISLAMABAD: The Pakistan Business Council (PBC) has presented a private sector-led export acceleration plan to Finance Minister Muhammad Aurangzeb, saying the proposal could generate between $1.1 billion and $1.9 billion in additional exports over the next 12 months, according to a statement issued on Monday.

The plan also sets a target of $450 million to $700 million in extra exports during July-December 2026. The council said these goals would depend on timely government action on policy measures it described as necessary enablers.

The proposal was shared during a meeting on Monday that marked the start of consultations for the next budget. Aurangzeb welcomed the engagement and described the interaction as the beginning of discussions on medium-term tax and budget policy.

According to the statement, PBC Chairperson Dr Zeelaf Munir presented a proposal titled Building Brand Pakistan: Unlocking Processed Food Export Potential, urging a move away from commodity-based exports toward higher-value, brand-led shipments.

Munir said the strategy should be seen in broader national terms rather than as a sector-specific initiative.

She also stressed the importance of policy continuity and collaboration between the public and private sectors.

The PBC delegation placed sector-wise recommendations before the finance minister, covering textiles, processed food, fast-moving consumer goods, pharmaceuticals, IT and ICT, mobile phone manufacturing, rubber products and other export-oriented industries.

PBC Chief Executive Officer Javed Kureishi said the council was prepared to work with the government on practical solutions led by the private sector to help Pakistan expand its presence in international markets.

Aurangzeb, according to the statement, termed the visit an invitation to begin a wider policy discussion.