Economic stability faces scrutiny amid unresolved structural issues

After months of improved macroeconomic indicators and relative calm in currency and inflation markets, Pakistan's business community is raising questions about whether the current phase of economic stability can translate into long-term growth. While headline numbers suggest improvement, industrialists argue that deep structural weaknesses remain unaddressed and could resurface once external support eases. Pakistan Industry and Traders Association Front (PIAF) Chairman Syed Mehmood Ghaznavi said that despite recent fiscal inflows and improved reserves, the country continues to face high interest-related expenditures that are draining public finances. He noted that the apparent fiscal relief has largely been achieved through tough conditions imposed under the International Monetary Fund (IMF) programme rather than through home-grown and sustainable economic reforms.