Maaz Mahmood urges policy consultation with business community
ISLAMABAD, APR 27 /DNA/ – The All Pakistan Business Forum (APBF) commends the recent economic dialogue hosted by the Embassy of Pakistan in Washington DC, where global financial institutions, corporate representatives, and Pakistan’s economic leadership came together to discuss the country’s economic turnaround. The dialogue highlighted the crucial role of the private sector in driving Pakistan’s economic future, as emphasized by Finance Minister Senator Muhammad Aurangzeb during his keynote address.
The APBF President Syed Maaz Mahmood agrees with the Finance Minister’s statement that the government’s role is to provide policy frameworks that ensure continuity, while the private sector leads the way in innovation and growth. This shift, likened to the transformative impact of artificial intelligence, highlights the evolving role of businesses in shaping Pakistan’s economic landscape. He said that the APBF believes that the government must prioritize dialogue with the private sector and industry stakeholders when formulating policies. This collaborative approach is essential for creating an environment conducive to sustainable business growth and attracting global investment.
APBF President, Mr. Ibrahim Qureshi, applauds the Finance Minister’s acknowledgment of the private sector’s potential and urges the government to establish a more structured process for regular consultations with businessmen and business forums such as the APBF. He stresses that only through active engagement with the business community can the government develop policies that are both practical and aligned with the needs of the market.
“The private sector is the engine of growth for any economy. Pakistan’s businesses, especially in the IT, manufacturing, and services sectors, have the potential to drive the country’s economic transformation. However, to unlock this potential, it is crucial that policymakers consult with industry leaders and business forums, ensuring that business-friendly policies are developed that support growth and job creation,” Mr. Qureshi stated.
The private sector’s role is particularly important in the context of Pakistan’s growth in sectors such as IT, manufacturing, and services, all of which hold significant potential to boost the economy. To realize this potential, the APBF urges the government to prioritize regular dialogues with business leaders to address concerns such as ease of doing business, regulatory reforms, and access to finance.
The APBF also calls for a renewed focus on infrastructure development, particularly in sectors like technology and digital services, which are vital for long-term growth. A predictable and stable business environment, supported by comprehensive regulatory frameworks, will further encourage investment and foster a competitive business climate.
In conclusion, the APBF advocates for a strong partnership between the public and private sectors. Only through mutual collaboration can Pakistan achieve sustainable economic growth, improve living standards, and solidify its position in the global market. The APBF stands ready to assist the government in creating policies that facilitate growth, reduce barriers to investment, and foster innovation across all industries.
 commends the recent economic dialogue hosted by the Embassy of Pakistan){kind=link}