ISLAMABAD: Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Thursday announced a reduction of Rs4.40 per unit in electricity tariffs for the industrial sector and an Rs9 cut in wheeling charges, aiming to provide relief to businesses and boost export-led growth.
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The premier made the announcement during a ceremony held in honour of Pakistan’s leading exporters and business figures in Islamabad, which was also attended by Deputy Prime Minister Ishaq Dar, federal ministers, and top entrepreneurs. During the event, the prime minister distributed awards to exporters who had contributed significantly to the national economy and announced that award recipients would be granted blue passports.
براہِ راست:- وزیراعظم محمد شہباز شریف کا ایکسپورٹرز کے اعزاز میں تقریب سے خطاب اور ایوارڈز کی تقسیم https://t.co/28pl78jYVX
— Government of Pakistan (@GovtofPakistan) January 30, 2026
In addition, PM Shehbaz revealed that the export tax rate would be reduced from 7.5 percent to 4.5 percent to accelerate industrial productivity and enhance competitiveness. “All future economic policies will be framed in close consultation with the business community,” he said, stressing that the private sector must drive growth while the government provides a stable and predictable business environment.
The prime minister highlighted achievements in economic stabilisation, noting that inflation had dropped to single digits and the policy rate declined from 22 percent to 10.5 percent. He said foreign exchange reserves had doubled and Pakistan had avoided default thanks to government reforms and international support.
Shehbaz also referred to privatisation initiatives, citing the transparent transfer of Pakistan International Airlines, and reforms targeting corruption and inefficiency, including the closure of the Pakistan Works Department, utility stores, and Pasco. He credited the military, led by Field Marshal Asim Munir, for helping curb smuggling, particularly in petroleum.
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The prime minister reiterated that export-led growth, especially in textiles, leather, and digital sectors, remained a national priority. He emphasised that political rights must not override national dignity, and that all stakeholders must work collectively to ensure sustained economic progress.