A summary of Pakistan’s latest economic and policy developments, including interest rate cuts, fuel price revisions, income inequality, infrastructure expansion, and international financing updates.
1. Central bank slashes policy rate by 50bps to 10.5%
The central bank has reduced its benchmark interest rate by 0.50 percentage points (50 basis points), bringing it down to 10.5%. This move is aimed at encouraging borrowing, investment, and economic activity by making loans cheaper.
2. Centre forms eight NFC committees
The federal government has established eight committees under the National Finance Commission (NFC) to review and discuss revenue-sharing arrangements between the federation and provinces, ahead of a new NFC Award.
3. ADB commits more loans for reforms, budget support
The Asian Development Bank (ADB) has pledged additional financial assistance to Pakistan in the form of loans to support economic reforms and help bridge budgetary financing gaps.
4. Top 10pc in Pakistan earners capture 42pc of income, report shows
A recent report reveals that the top 10% of income earners in Pakistan receive 42% of the country’s total income, highlighting significant income inequality within the economy.
5. Pakistan-Russia IGC signs second protocol for PSM revival
The Pakistan-Russia Inter-Governmental Commission (IGC) has signed a second formal agreement (protocol) aimed at supporting the revival and modernization of Pakistan Steel Mills (PSM) through technical and strategic cooperation.
6. PSW extends post-payment regime to SIDC within WeBOC system
Pakistan Single Window (PSW) has expanded its post-payment facility to include Special Initial Duty Collections (SIDC) within the WeBOC customs clearance system, allowing importers to pay duties after cargo clearance.
7. PIBT signs agreement with Reko Diq Mining for copper-gold exports
Pakistan International Bulk Terminal (PIBT) has signed an agreement with Reko Diq Mining to handle the export logistics of copper and gold, supporting Pakistan’s mineral export infrastructure.
8. Govt cuts RLNG prices by up to 5.9pc for December
The government has reduced the prices of Re-gasified Liquefied Natural Gas (RLNG) by up to 5.9% for December, providing cost relief to industrial and commercial gas consumers.
9. Pakistan govt slashes diesel price by Rs14 per litre, keeps petrol unchanged
The government has reduced the price of diesel by Rs14 per litre to ease inflationary pressure, while petrol prices remain unchanged for the current pricing period.
10. USF connects 39.4m rural residents through Rs95bn broadband expansion
The Universal Service Fund (USF) has expanded broadband connectivity to 39.4 million people in rural and underserved areas, investing Rs95 billion to improve digital access and telecom infrastructure nationwide.
Latest Pakistan economic updates covering interest rate cuts, fuel price changes, income inequality, broadband expansion, and key policy and trade developments.