Pakistan Can Become $1 Trillion Economy by 2035, Says Federal Minister Ahsan Iqbal

Independent Report
Islamabad, 25 February 2026: Addressing the Pakistan Governance Forum 2026, Federal Minister for Planning, Development and Special Initiatives, Professor Ahsan Iqbal, stated that Pakistan faces a clear choice: to become a $600 billion economy by 2035 or to transform into a $1 trillion economy. He emphasized that this outcome depends on capable leadership and effective governance.
The forum was attended by Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif as chief guest, alongside Chief Ministers, Members of Parliament, development partners, private sector representatives, academia, civil society, and young scholars.
Professor Iqbal said that good governance is based on merit, transparency, accountability, and citizen-focused service delivery. He noted that over the past two years, reforms and improved governance have guided the economy away from the brink of bankruptcy, with international financial institutions now presenting Pakistan’s recovery as a case study.
He highlighted that with sustained national cohesion, positive synergy, and accelerated reforms, Pakistan can achieve a $1 trillion economy by 2035, while growing at its traditional pace would reach only $600 billion. Collective competence and strategic planning are essential to achieve this milestone.
Referring to the government’s “Five Es” — Exports, E-Pakistan, Environment & Climate Change, Energy & Infrastructure, and Equity & Empowerment — he underlined the importance of increasing exports beyond $100 billion, promoting technology and artificial intelligence, addressing climate challenges, improving energy efficiency, and investing in human resource development.
Professor Iqbal warned that critical challenges such as climate change, water and food security, a 2.55% annual population growth rate, 40% child stunting, 25 million out-of-school children, and a 10% tax-to-GDP ratio require urgent attention. He also highlighted the disparity that 9 million overseas Pakistanis generate $40 billion in remittances, whereas a domestic population of 240 million produces the same value in exports, calling for strategic measures to bridge this gap.
He stressed that now is not the time for political confrontation but for a long march toward economic growth. The federation and provinces must work together on a unified national development agenda.
Professor Iqbal added that the Ministry of Planning has made all development projects publicly accessible through an online portal to ensure transparency and keep citizens informed about government initiatives. He reaffirmed the government’s commitment to equipping youth with 21st-century skills and transforming Pakistan into a strong and self-reliant economy.