DNA
RAWALPINDI – The President of the Rawalpindi Chamber of Commerce and Industry (RCCI), Usman Shaukat, has welcomed the release of the Pakistan Economic Survey 2024–25, noting that the report signals early signs of economic stabilization and recovery.
Shaukat highlighted encouraging macroeconomic indicators: GDP growth has reached 2.68%, inflation has fallen sharply, and the policy interest rate has been reduced from 22% to 11%. The current account posted a surplus of $1.9 billion, while foreign exchange reserves rose to $16.64 billion—contributing to improved investor confidence and stability in the Pakistani Rupee.
“These figures show that the economy is on the mend,” said Shaukat. “However, stabilization is only the first step. Now begins the real work—undertaking deep and sustained structural reforms.”
He urged the government to act decisively in addressing long-standing economic inefficiencies: “It is critical to eliminate bureaucratic red tape, ensure policy continuity, and reduce the cost of doing business. Without this, economic gains may prove short-lived.”
Shaukat emphasized that the upcoming federal budget is a pivotal moment to introduce industry-friendly policies, broaden the tax base, and enhance governance.
“With macroeconomic stability taking root, we must not lose momentum,” he stated. “Reforms in energy pricing, taxation, and public sector performance are no longer optional—they are essential.”
The RCCI also commended the government’s success in curbing inflation, which fell from nearly 40% to below 5%, with April 2025 recording a historic low of just 0.3%—a major milestone in economic management.
“The direction is right, but the pace must now accelerate,” concluded Shaukat. “Pakistan must use this opportunity to build a more resilient and competitive economy for the future.”
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