Economic butchery
PAKISTAN is teetering on the edge of economic collapse due to its persistent struggle to increase the tax-to-GDP ratio, a crucial measure of its fiscal health. Despite numerous efforts, many…
Rethinking agriculture for economic revival
In the last many weeks, I have written in these pages to share ideas for addressing the dire challenges faced by our economy. The government of Pakistan has a choice:…
Breaking the status quo
CIVIL servants are the backbone of any state structure. They enforce the rules, provide services, and set governance standards. In Pakistan, commissions have repeatedly been formed to enact civil services…
Economic governance framework
BEFORE proposing solutions to the economic governance challenge, it is useful to briefly review the current position. Loans, deferred payments, lowering currency value etc can give temporary relief but it…
Global economic outlook 2024
By unlocking big, bold investments, we can drive sustainable development and climate action and put the global economy on a stronger growth path for all. We must build on the…
‘Economic wars’ and national strength
The seventh annual edition of the ThinkFest literary event was held in Lahore this past weekend. Dr Yaqoob Bangash – whose day job as a historian makes him especially sensitive…
GSP+ status: a major success
The European Parliament has decided to extend the existing GSP (Generalized System of Preferences) for another four years (till 2027), whereas, European Council is expected to give its final approval for…
Journey of economic revival
On April 19, 2022, I faced the most challenging day of my life when I took on the role of federal minister for planning, development & special initiatives. I was…
Leadership and economics
Upon the conclusion of every single overseas visit I am filled with sadness and a deep sense of disillusionment. This is despite a divinely blessed deep reservoir of optimistic attitude…
Economic dystopia incentivized
Can you guess what country has the world’s worst financial inclusion statistics? It is Pakistan. With 115 million unbanked adults (adults with neither a bank account, nor a mobile money…
