Empowering Exports: PM Shehbaz Unveils Landmark Relief Package to Boost Industrial Growth.
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In a major push to transform economic stability into prosperity, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif announced a game-changing relief package for Pakistan’s industrial and export sectors on Friday, January 30, 2026. Addressing a ceremony in Islamabad to honor top business leaders, the Prime Minister emphasized that Pakistan has moved past the threat of default and is now focusing on sustainable, export-led growth.
Key Highlights of the Relief Package:
- Cheap Credit for Exporters: A standout feature is the 300-basis-point slash in the export refinance rate, bringing it down from 7.5% to 4.5%. The government has allocated Rs 1,052 billion for this scheme to provide much-needed liquidity to exporters.
- Lower Energy Costs: Electricity tariffs for industries have been cut by Rs 4.04 per unit to enhance global competitiveness. Additionally, wheeling charges—the cost of transporting power—have been reduced to below Rs 9 per kWh, enabling industries to trade power more efficiently.
- Honorary Recognition: In a unique move, the PM announced the issuance of “Blue Passports” with two-year validity for top-performing exporters. These individuals will be recognized as “ambassadors-at-large” for Pakistan.
- Economic Stability: The reforms come at a time when inflation has fallen to single digits (5.6% in December 2025) and SBP’s foreign reserves have reached $16.1 billion, effectively doubling over the last three years.
The Prime Minister urged the business community to move away from “begging for money” and instead invest in export-oriented projects to ensure long-term national pride and financial independence.
