We Need Dollars: Planning Minister

Federal Minister for Planning Ahsan Iqbal has urged Pakistani industries to develop five-year export plans and move away from merely discussing potential gains to taking concrete steps towards achieving them. He emphasized that the country has no alternative but to boost exports as a means to secure international currency and foster long-term economic stability.

At a Planning Commission policy dialogue focusing on Pakistan's automotive industry, Iqbal stressed that export-led growth is the bedrock of the government's URAAN Pakistan initiative, which aims to achieve sustainable foreign exchange earnings. "Pakistan needs dollars, and we must increase exports," he declared.

The minister reiterated the government's goal to raise Pakistan's exports to $100 billion, underscoring that the nation cannot depend on borrowing or short-term economic strategies for steady growth. He urged Pakistan to transition from a domestic market-driven economy to a globally competitive export-oriented economy by enhancing productivity, embracing modern technologies, and bolstering industrial infrastructure.

Regarding the automotive sector, Iqbal noted that the forthcoming Auto Policy 2.0 is anticipated to assist local manufacturers in integrating into global supply chains and expanding their exports. Furthermore, he advocated for a district-level export development plan to recognize regional industrial strengths and foster competitive export clusters nationwide.

The policy discussion convened government officials, industry representatives, academics, and development partners to deliberate on strategies to enhance Pakistan's automotive exports and bolster the country's broader export objectives under URAAN Pakistan.