Pakistan seeks international consultancy expertise for economic reforms, SOE restructuring

Pakistan’s government has told consulting firm Alvarez & Marsal it is open to working with overseas advisers on economic restructuring and reviews of state-owned enterprises. Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif met the firm’s North American operations managing director, Peter Briggs, in Islamabad on Friday, according to a statement from the Prime Minister’s Office. Discussions included assessing public companies for possible privatisation and attracting foreign direct investment.

Sharif said reform priorities include export-led expansion, stronger domestic manufacturing and improved access to global markets, alongside digitalisation, merit and transparency. The government is examining SOE viability as part of its privatisation approach, while seeking expert support with accountability and measurable results. Briggs welcomed the investment agenda and said A&M was willing to help Pakistan improve business competitiveness and economic productivity.