The Pakistan International Business Forum (PIBF) Lahore has announced the launch of the “Mayaishat Ko Istehkam Do” (strengthen the economy) movement in response to worsening economic conditions, sluggish business activity, and what it described as excessive interference by government institutions. Think Tank of the PIBF on Economy has appointed Hafiz Mahmood Malik as Convener of the movement, while Tahir Raza has been named as Co-Convener for an effective campaign. The Think Tank has outlined a five-point agenda focusing on key structural challenges faced by the economy. These include persistently high interest rates, excessive taxation, elevated electricity tariffs, a shortage of skilled labour, and systemic hurdles affecting the ease of doing business. In support of its proposals, the PIBF Economy Think Tank has conducted a comparative analysis of ease of doing business across South Asian economies, including China, India, and Bangladesh. The review aims to highlight how pragmatic policy reforms and improved regulatory frameworks in neighbouring countries have contributed to increased investment and sustained economic growth. The forum believes that the adoption of similar policy measures in Pakistan could accelerate economic recovery and improve investor confidence. Under the “Mayaishat Ko Istehkam Do” movement, the five-point agenda will be presented to business leaders, political stakeholders, government officials, and the public through seminars titled “Problems and Their Solutions,” alongside a coordinated social media outreach campaign. PIBF stated that, in collaboration with the business community and the public, the movement will ultimately be advanced under the broader slogan “Badal Do Nizam,” calling for reforms to replace what it termed an outdated bureaucratic governance framework.
