Pakistan's economic trajectory in late 2025 is defined by a rigorous yet essential framework of discipline imposed by the IMF. Following the approval of the $7 billion Extended Fund Facility (EFF) in September 2024, the country embarked on a 37-month journey of stabilisation that has begun to reshape the fundamental contours of the national economy. While early indicators such as the reduction
Though the recently released US-China Economic and Security Review Commission report offers interesting insights into the love-hate dynamics of the US-China relationship, it also highlights concerns that could affect Pakistan in the long run. The report acknowledges military cooperation between China and Pakistan and recognises the supremacy of Beijing's HQ-9 air defence system, PL-15 missiles
China's economy is showing unmistakable signs of slowing in 2025, and the ripple effects are being felt across Asia. Its third-quarter GDP growth slipped to 4.8% from 5.2% in the previous quarter, marking the weakest pace in a year. Much of the drag stems from persistent structural weaknesses, particularly in the property market. Real estate investment has declined 13.9% year-to-date as of Sept
No economy can grow while half its population remains unsafe, unseen, or silenced. Women's protection is not just a moral or legal concern; it is an economic necessity. Pakistan's ongoing challenge in ensuring women's dignity translates directly into lost productivity, declining labour force participation, and weakened competitiveness. The Protection against Harassment of Women at the Workplace
Two key developments in recent weeks highlight the predicament facing trade policymakers. First, the rising trade deficit is putting pressure on the already fragile external accounts, driven by a surge in imports and weakening export growth. Exports in the first four months of FY26 were 4% lower than in the same period of last year, while imports were 16% higher. Given that the recent plans to