Federal Minister for Planning, Development & Special Initiatives Ahsan Iqbal has stressed that Pakistan’s long-term economic stability depends on expanding exports and controlling rapid population growth.

Speaking at the Annual Plan Coordination Committee (APCC) meeting, he said sustainable growth cannot be achieved without a strong export base and higher foreign exchange earnings. He added that Pakistan must aim to lift exports to around $100 billion within the next decade, calling export-led growth the only viable path to economic resilience.

The minister noted that improving foreign exchange reserves is directly tied to export performance and urged a shift toward higher productivity, greater competitiveness, and value-added industrial production to strengthen Pakistan’s position in global markets.

He also flagged population growth as a major structural challenge, saying reducing the population growth rate and addressing child stunting are essential for long-term development outcomes.

Calling for stronger federal–provincial coordination, Ahsan Iqbal emphasized that development priorities must be aligned and financed within limited fiscal space through joint efforts.

On water security, he pointed to rising regional tensions and recent developments affecting water flows, arguing that greater investment in dams and irrigation infrastructure has become necessary. However, he cautioned that such priorities further constrain resources available for other development needs.

The remarks come as policymakers finalize the FY2026–27 development framework ahead of the federal budget, balancing infrastructure demands, fiscal limits, and growth targets.