ISLAMABAD: Special Assistant to the Prime Minister on Industry and Production Haroon Akhtar Khan said on Saturday that the government remained committed to improving the industrial landscape to boost employment opportunities and bolster economic recovery.

Talking to the media, he stated that the government was fully cognisant of the challenges confronting the industrial sector and was now prioritising economic growth and job creation as key pillars of its agenda.

Mr Khan acknowledged that the country had navigated difficult economic conditions in the past, necessitating tough decisions that adversely affected industries. However, he said the prime minister now wanted to shift the focus towards sustainable job creation, stressing that employment opportunities could not be generated unless factories were fully operational.

The SAPM conceded that production costs in Pakistan remained high, noting that despite a significant reduction in the interest rate from 22 per cent to 10.5pc, taxes continued to pose a challenge, limiting the competitiveness of local industries in global markets.

He assured that relief measures would be reflected in the upcoming federal budget.

Regarding the opposition’s criticism, Mr Khan said it was the beauty of democracy and that constructive criticism helped improve governmental performance.

He added that political stability was essential for promoting investment and that the government would complete its constitutional term and seek a fresh mandate from the people based on its performance.

The SAPM said the prime minister viewed industrialists and traders across the country equally and was keen on providing employment opportunities in all regions. He also praised women entrepreneurs, describing them as a dynamic and determined segment of the business community.

Published in Dawn, February 1st, 2026