ISLAMABAD, November 13, 2026: Adviser to the Prime Minister on Privatisation Muhammad Ali has called for a greater role for the private sector in Pakistan’s economic policymaking, saying sustainable growth requires closer coordination between businesses, academic institutions and government decision-makers.
Speaking on economic policy and development, Ali said policymakers must formulate growth-friendly policies through meaningful consultation with stakeholders across the country.
He pointed out that Islamabad was not Pakistan’s principal business hub, identifying Karachi, Lahore, Sialkot, Multan and Faisalabad as major centres of commercial and industrial activity.
The adviser stressed that businesses operating in these cities should be actively involved in policy discussions, even when their perspectives differ from those of government officials.
He also highlighted a disconnect between policymakers and academic institutions, including universities, researchers, scholars and think tanks.
Ali said greater emphasis must be placed on research, evidence-based analysis and academic consultation to improve the quality of economic decisions.
He maintained that effective policymaking would remain difficult without engaging the private sector, academia and other relevant stakeholders.
Calling for differences of opinion to be addressed through reasoned debate, the adviser emphasised the need to expand privatisation and public-private partnerships.
He said the private sector should take the lead in driving economic development, describing privatisation as a key instrument for helping Pakistan achieve its long-term economic objectives over the next two to three decades.