Islamabad – August 8, 2025:
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif unveiled Pakistan’s much-anticipated Economic Recovery Plan 2025 in a televised address today, aiming to steer the nation toward financial stability and sustainable growth.
The plan, which comes amid rising inflation and a depreciating rupee, introduces a strategic mix of tax reforms, investment-friendly policies, and digital payment incentives to restore economic confidence and attract both local and international investors.
“This plan is a roadmap to rebuild our economy on a solid foundation of fairness, technology, and transparency,” said Shehbaz Sharif during his address.
🔍 Key Highlights of the Economic Recovery Plan 2025
Tax Reform Package:
Simplification of tax filing for SMEs
Reduction in sales tax for digital businesses
Introduction of AI-powered audit systems to curb corruption
Export Boosting Measures:
Subsidies for textile, agriculture, and IT exports
Fast-track loan approvals for export-oriented industries
Establishment of new trade offices in the Gulf, China, and Central Asia
Digital Economy Promotion:
Waiving transaction charges for small-scale digital payments
Expansion of Raast digital payment network to rural areas
Incentives for fintech startups and online freelancers
📉 Current Challenges Addressed
The Prime Minister acknowledged Pakistan’s current economic challenges, including:
Soaring inflation (currently above 20%)
Low foreign exchange reserves
Decline in foreign direct investment (FDI)
He assured the nation that this multi-phase plan would gradually stabilize prices, strengthen the rupee, and create over 2 million new jobs by the end of 2026.
🏦 International Response
Initial responses from international organizations like the IMF and World Bank have been cautiously optimistic. A spokesperson from the IMF called it a “positive and necessary step,” especially if backed by strong implementation and transparency.
📢 Public and Political Reaction
While government allies praised the plan as “visionary,” the opposition questioned its feasibility and criticized the lack of clear funding sources. PTI’s spokesperson Fawad Chaudhry said, “It’s another empty promise unless backed by action and accountability.”
🧮 What’s Next?
The government plans to introduce a mini-budget in the National Assembly next week to formalize several aspects of the recovery plan. Talks with the IMF for a fresh loan extension are also expected to resume in the coming days.
📌 Final Thoughts
The Shehbaz Sharif Economic Recovery Plan 2025 could be a turning point for Pakistan’s struggling economy—if executed with sincerity, cross-party cooperation, and effective governance.
