He highlights tax reforms, construction activity, economic digitalisation as key drivers of recovery
Financial Minister Muhammad Aurangzeb speaking at the Pakistan Economic Growth Conference organised by the Federation of Pakistan Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FPCCI) in Islamabad, Feb 14, 2026. PHOTO: LIVESTREAM
ISLAMABAD:
Finance Minister Muhammad Aurangzeb said on Saturday the government can not provide jobs to all 240 million citizens, stressing the need for private-sector-led growth as the country works to stabilise and expand its economy.
Speaking at the Pakistan Economic Growth Conference organised by the Federation of Pakistan Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FPCCI) in Islamabad, Aurangzeb said: “We cannot give jobs to 240 million people,” underscoring the importance of structural reforms and investment.
He said foreign exchange reserves were steadily increasing, and the economy was moving towards stability and growth.
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The finance minister said work was underway to boost the construction sector and broaden the tax base, adding that greater digitalisation of the economy would enhance transparency and increase revenue collection.
Aurangzeb acknowledged challenges facing developers and bankers, particularly recovery issues, and said Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif would address the matter in the coming days.
He said cement production was rising, while taxes related to the construction sector were also increasing.
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Referring to the information technology sector, Aurangzeb said Pakistan was receiving $10 million in IT exports, but said that additional earnings were leaving the country through informal hundi and hawala channels.