Ahmed Khan Malik

Balochistan’s industrialists appreciate the federal government’s ‘Uraan Pakistan’ program, which they believe is a feasible roadmap for economic growth, aligning with the country's vast untapped potential, reports WealthPK.

According to the industrialists, the program seeks to make Pakistan an economic power by harnessing its untapped potential and fostering a society where economic growth is equitable, sustainable, and inclusive. “The program closely mirrors the strategies employed by successful economies that have risen to global prominence, such as South Korea and Singapore.

These nations have thrived by focusing on key sectors like exports, digital innovation, infrastructure, and social equity,” said Naveed Mastoi, industrialist and Secretary of Balochistan Business Forum, while talking with WealthPK.

He said by prioritizing these interconnected domains through the 5Es Framework, Uraan Pakistan aimed to create a competitive, equitable, and sustainable economy through five critical areas – exports, digital transformation, environment and climate change, energy and infrastructure development, and equity and empowerment. “Each of these pillars addresses a specific aspect of the country’s development, ensuring that no sector or community is left behind.

By focusing on these interconnected domains, the program envisions an economy that is not only globally competitive but also socially just,” he said. Mastoi said exports were central to Uraan Pakistan’s strategy, aiming to diversify the economy, attract foreign investment, and enhance Pakistan’s global market position. By fostering innovation and boosting productivity, the government seeks to replicate the success of export-driven economies like South Korea and Malaysia.

“With vast untapped potential in sectors such as textiles, agriculture, and technology, Pakistan is well-positioned to achieve significant economic transformation through this approach,” he said. Mustafa Syed, a textile industrialist in the Hub Industrial Area, said by accelerating the shift toward a knowledge-based economy, Pakistan could not only boost its productivity but also provide its youth with opportunities in emerging fields such as artificial intelligence, blockchain, and e-commerce.

“This digital revolution will also enhance transparency and efficiency in governance, paving the way for citizen-centric service delivery and robust accountability mechanisms,” he said. He noted that the emphasis on environment and climate change highlighted Pakistan's proactive stance toward sustainability. “As one of the most vulnerable countries to climate change, Pakistan faces severe risks to its agricultural sector, water resources, and ecological balance.

Through Uraan Pakistan, the government is addressing these challenges with climate adaptation measures, renewable energy initiatives, and sustainable practices to safeguard the natural resources,” he added. Pakistan's commitment to climate action is further exemplified by its active participation in international platforms like COP 29, where the nation continues to advocate stronger climate commitments and adaptation support for developing countries.

By integrating environmental concerns into its national development strategy, the government is not only ensuring food and water security but also paving the way for a green economy. He said energy and infrastructure development were equally critical to the success of Uraan Pakistan. The program prioritizes affordable and green energy solutions to reduce the production costs, attract foreign investment, and bolster industrial growth. Pakistan’s energy sector has long been plagued by inefficiencies and shortages, which have stunted its economic potential, he said.

Credit: INP-WealthPk