A high-level Chinese expert delegation participated in an event organized by the Pakistan Institute of Development Economics (PIDE) at the Marriott Hotel in Islamabad, marking a significant step towards enhancing economic collaboration between China and Pakistan. The event, titled “Pakistan Economy & Growth: Learning from Chinese Experience,” aimed to facilitate an exchange of knowledge and best practices between the two nations.
In her introductory remarks, PIDE’s Pro VC Dr. Durre Nayab emphasized the importance of such interactions in fostering growth and development. She highlighted the need for adopting strategies that have propelled China to economic success, tailored to Pakistan’s unique context.
The event featured a detailed presentation by Dr. Nadeem ul Haque, Vice Chancellor of PIDE, who discussed the critical need for policy reforms, investment in human capital, and fostering an innovation-driven economy. Dr. Haque noted that the event aimed to explore lessons Pakistan can learn from China’s economic transformation, which provides insights into growth strategies, infrastructure development, industrialization, and policy reforms applicable to Pakistan.
Dr. Haque emphasized that Pakistan is poised for a new era of economic growth and regional connectivity through the dynamic framework of the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC). He highlighted that with a young, burgeoning population and a rapidly expanding middle class, Pakistan presents a compelling case for significant investment and development.
Pakistan’s demographic profile, with a median age of just 20.6 years and a labor force expanding by over 3 million annually, is a cornerstone of its growth potential. Dr. Haque noted that the projected growth rate of 7-8% per annum is within reach with strategic reforms, positioning Pakistan as a future market leader. By 2030, Pakistan is expected to become the 7th largest consumer market globally, underscoring its vast potential.
Dr. Nadeem further stated that CPEC is not just an infrastructure project but a framework for regional connectivity. It aims to enhance geographical linkages through people-to-people contact, academic and cultural exchanges, and robust trade and business flows. The initiative promises to transform Pakistan into a logistical hub, driving industrial, agricultural, and financial cooperation, along with human resource development and tourism.
He pointed out that Pakistan is undergoing significant reforms to create a more investment-friendly environment. Moving from a permission-based to a rule-based economy, the government is addressing regulatory challenges that have historically hampered growth. The implementation of Regulatory Impact Assessments (RIAs) and the reduction of excessive permissions are crucial steps towards this transformation.
Dr. Haque noted that beyond infrastructure, CPEC opens up diverse opportunities for investment. Leading global corporations such as Pepsi-Cola, Coca-Cola, General Electric, and Procter & Gamble have already established a strong presence in Pakistan, collectively investing over $1.5 billion and generating $3 billion in revenues. The Special Economic Zones (SEZs) under CPEC offer further prospects for investment, particularly in the technology and manufacturing sectors.
He highlighted that Pakistan’s burgeoning market for electric vehicles (EVs) represents a significant growth area. With over 50% of households owning motorbikes and a growing demand for cars, the market for 2- and 4-wheel EVs is set to expand rapidly. Initiatives to promote EVs and public transport in Islamabad are already underway, positioning Pakistan strategically as a hub for EV production for both local and export markets.
By learning from China, Pakistan can develop strategies to overcome economic challenges and achieve sustainable growth. The seminar at PIDE provided a platform for discussing these lessons and adapting them to Pakistan’s context, paving the way for a prosperous future.
The Chinese delegation’s lead expert provided invaluable insights into the Chinese economic model, emphasizing lessons that Pakistan can leverage for its own growth. He elaborated on China’s strategic investments in infrastructure, technology, and education, demonstrating how similar initiatives could yield significant benefits for Pakistan. The expert highlighted that China’s economic rise from a developing nation to the world’s second-largest economy offers crucial lessons in various areas, including economic policies, infrastructure development, industrialization, education, innovation, and governance. By strategically investing in these sectors, Pakistan can replicate China’s success and drive its own economic growth.
In this context, a Chinese delegation comprising experts from diverse fields such as economy, industry, agriculture, technology, healthcare, education, environmental science, urban planning, and more, will be visiting Pakistan. These experts bring a wealth of knowledge and experience from their respective domains, aiming to foster deeper collaboration and mutual growth. Their insights and recommendations are expected to play a crucial role in shaping the next phase of Pakistan’s development under the CPEC framework.
Chinese lead experts have lauded the Pakistan Institute of Development Economics (PIDE) for its exceptional efforts in identifying and addressing the critical challenges facing Pakistan. Through rigorous empirical research and the engagement of top-tier specialists, PIDE is exploring innovative solutions to these issues. This esteemed national think tank is undeniably instrumental in charting a course for Pakistan’s success and prosperity.
Effective governance and institutional reforms, including streamlined bureaucracy and anti-corruption measures, were critical to China’s development. Pakistan can adopt these reforms to improve governance, strengthen institutions, and enhance transparency. Emulating China’s policies, infrastructure investments, SEZs, human capital development, technological innovation, export promotion, and governance reforms can pave the way for Pakistan’s prosperity.
Representatives from all leading think tanks from all provinces of Pakistan participated in the seminar and emphasized the importance of skill development, industrial linkages, and technology transfer between China and Pakistan. Indeed, it is a great initiative by PIDE aims to establish thought connectivity with China. We need more research collaborations and the sharing of ideas. China has much to teach us about policies and reforms. CPEC-II should include a component for shared and collaborative research.
During the event, the Chinese delegation engaged in meaningful discussions with representatives from Pakistani academia and think tanks. The discussions covered a broad range of topics, including economic policy, industrial development, and sustainable growth. The event provided a platform for the exchange of ideas, fostering a collaborative approach to addressing economic challenges.
They commended PIDE for organizing such a highly productive, significant, and timely event.
Editor: Kamran Raja