Pakistan needs to expand its exports if it wants lasting economic growth, Federal Minister for Planning, Development and Special Initiatives Ahsan Iqbal said on Thursday.
He urged the Asian Development Bank (ADB) to provide technical support and international expertise to help Pakistan increase and diversify its exports. Iqbal made the remarks during a meeting with ADB Vice President for South, Central and West Asia Yingming Yang in Islamabad.
Ahsan Iqbal Calls for Export-Led Growth
Iqbal said debt-based stabilization cannot provide a lasting solution for Pakistan. Instead, he argued that stronger exports can give the economy a sustainable foundation.
“Stabilization will only be true stabilization when it is not on the back of debt,” he said.
The minister described the move toward an export-driven economy as a matter of “life and death” for Pakistan. He also stressed that the country needs stronger external earnings to support long-term development.
Pakistan Seeks ADB Export Strategy
During the meeting, Iqbal asked the ADB to help Pakistan prepare a strategic roadmap for export expansion.
The plan would focus on increasing the range of products Pakistan sells abroad. It would also aim to improve the country’s competitiveness in international markets.
Moreover, Iqbal referred to the ADB’s technical assistance during the preparation of Vision 2010. He said similar expertise could help Pakistan address current economic challenges.
$1 Trillion Economy Target
Iqbal reiterated the government’s goal of turning Pakistan into a $1 trillion economy by 2035.
He said Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif remains committed to removing structural barriers and reforming key sectors. These include industry, food security, commerce and foreign affairs.
In addition, the minister highlighted economic diplomacy as an important part of the government’s strategy.
He said Pakistan must create conditions that encourage investment while also strengthening its export capacity.
Reforms Needed for Sustainable Growth
Pakistan’s export ambitions will require changes across several sectors.
According to Iqbal, reforms in industry, agriculture-related areas, commerce and other key fields can help build a stronger economic base.
He also asked the ADB to maintain close coordination on development projects. This, he said, would ensure that international support remains aligned with Pakistan’s national priorities.
Water Security Becomes Part of ADB Talks
The meeting also covered climate adaptation and water security.
Iqbal pointed to increasingly severe and unseasonal rainfall in Pakistan. He urged the ADB to support localized water-management projects across the country.
These projects could include small dams, reservoirs and retention ponds.
The minister said such infrastructure could help Pakistan store rainwater instead of allowing large volumes to drain away. Stored water could then support agriculture, protect urban areas and improve water security.
He also highlighted the risks created by sudden transboundary water inflows.
Tourism and Environmental Protection
Iqbal also sought ADB expertise for sustainable tourism in Gilgit-Baltistan.
The region has attracted growing numbers of visitors. However, increased tourism can put pressure on fragile mountain ecosystems.
Therefore, the minister called for a sustainable tourism management framework that can protect the environment while supporting local economic activity.
ADB Reaffirms Support for Pakistan
Yingming Yang reaffirmed the ADB’s commitment to Pakistan’s development priorities.
The bank will continue supporting areas such as institution building, climate resilience and sustainable long-term growth, according to the government statement.
The discussions come as Pakistan seeks to strengthen its economic foundations and reduce reliance on debt-driven stabilization.
Pakistan to Attend CAREC Ministerial Conference
Yang also invited Ahsan Iqbal to lead Pakistan’s national delegation to the 25th CAREC Ministerial Conference.
The conference is scheduled for September 29 and 30, 2026, in Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia.
Iqbal accepted the invitation.
Why Pakistan Exports Matter
Pakistan’s latest discussions with the ADB underline the government’s focus on exports as a long-term growth engine.
Higher and more diverse exports can bring greater foreign exchange earnings. They can also support investment, employment and industrial expansion.
However, achieving that goal will require consistent reforms and stronger coordination between government institutions and development partners.
For Pakistan, the message from the planning minister is clear: exports must play a central role in building a more stable and sustainable economy.
