Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, on Wednesday, inaugurated the Public Sector Development Programme (PSDP) Data Portal, describing it as a significant advancement towards enhanced transparency and open governance.
The portal was launched during the Pakistan Governance Forum 2026 held in Islamabad.
In his address to the forum, the Prime Minister emphasised the necessity of a “whole-of-government” strategy to boost exports and ensure economic stability.
He mentioned that electricity tariffs had been lowered by approximately Rs9 per unit and urged for measures to combat power theft, which is estimated to cost Rs200 billion, through coordinated efforts.
PM Shehbaz Sharif indicated that the Utility Stores Corporation and the Pakistan Works Department had been shut down to prevent financial leakages.
He also noted that Rs38 billion in direct subsidies had been allocated to eligible families via digital wallets during Ramazan.
Furthermore, the PM highlighted the importance of reducing direct taxation in the forthcoming budget to aid businesses.
PM Shehbaz Sharif advocates for PSDP
PM Shehbaz Sharif advocated for the elimination of sales tax evasion while highlighting the significance of initiating the PSDP data portal.
He went on to reiterate that the government’s role should be to support the private sector rather than compete against it.
Planning Minister Ahsan Iqbal also stated that international financial institutions and rating agencies were recognizing Pakistan’s economic recovery as a notable case study.
He attributed the success in avoiding default to reforms and stated that governance is central to the government’s “Uraan Pakistan” transformation agenda.
Ahsan Iqbal further added that Pakistan has the potential to evolve into a $1 trillion economy by 2035 if it fully harnesses its capabilities.
He called on stakeholders to concentrate on an “economic long march” rather than engage in political unrest.
He mentioned that the PSDP Data Portal would enable citizens to track development projects and enhance accountability.
UNDP Resident Representative Samuel Rizk stated that governance is a strategic decision that shapes the future.
He connected inclusive governance with economic stability, climate resilience, and public trust.
British High Commissioner Jane Marriott commended Pakistan’s focus on reforms, particularly the initiatives aimed at establishing a coherent export strategy. She noted that effective governance lowers costs and fosters investment.
