Federal Minister Says Level Playing Field Key to Economic Growth

Islamabad, January 19, 2026: Federal Minister for Climate Change, Musadiq Malik, emphasized that providing a level playing field will boost productivity and ensure sustainable growth. Addressing an event, he criticized preferential treatment given to specific groups with cheap electricity, gas, and tax exemptions, calling it a barrier to broader prosperity. He highlighted that exports drive sustainable development, and government measures have improved economic indicators. Malik stressed that opportunities must be equal for all citizens, and the state should act as a facilitator rather than running businesses itself. He also defended privatization as a practical solution to market inefficiencies rather than an ideological move. The minister warned that access to power and influence should not determine wealth, urging resources like low-interest loans to be made available to youth and small enterprises to promote inclusive growth.