Pakistan targets export-led growth, longer-term financing

Finance Minister Senator Muhammad Aurangzeb said Pakistan is working to widen its reach in international markets and to swap pricey short-term borrowing for debt with longer maturities, according to Mettis Global. He made the remarks at the Bank of America Small Talks Symposium in Bangkok, held on the sidelines of the World Bank Group and IMF Annual Meetings 2026. He argued that continued reforms would help the economy remain stable.

Aurangzeb cited better external sector indicators, stronger foreign exchange reserves and net international reserves that are positive on the IMF definition. The minister restated Islamabad's pledge to see the IMF programme through and keep policy credible once it concludes. The talks also touched on tax administration changes, a wider tax base, privatisation and growing interest among investors in the country.

He stressed that export-led expansion, which he described as sustainable, depends on tariff changes, competitive inputs and targeted funding. Measures covering regional tensions, pressure on energy prices and climate-related shocks were also part of his remarks, alongside plans to deepen trade and investment ties.