Trust in economic strength drops

The Express Tribune reported that the share of Pakistanis who believe the economy is strong has fallen to 14%, meaning only one in seven respondents sees it that way. An independent Ipsos poll put the comparable figure at one in five just four months earlier. Electricity load-shedding has also moved into the top five public concerns.

The survey recorded a 6% fall in perceived economic strength since the previous quarter, which the report links to the aftereffects of the US-Iran conflict. Inflation remains the top worry at 69%, while concern about electricity prices climbed 9% to 35%. Only 15% of respondents feel confident about investing, and 16% feel secure in their jobs.

The report links higher taxation to an IMF deal, with petrol tax reaching up to Rs116 per litre after global fuel price shocks. Ipsos Pakistan Managing Director Abdul Sattar described the mood as a gradual rebound, not complete assurance. Household purchase comfort has risen to 10%, while the personal financial situation rating fell 12% to 19%.