In a bid to enhance Pakistan’s economic situation, the International Monetary Fund (IMF) has urged the government to consider the privatization of Utility Stores and state-owned entities. The IMF’s recommendations highlight the potential benefits of transferring Utility Stores to the private sector, aiming to boost efficiency and profitability in their operations.
Furthermore, the IMF has proposed an increase in the budget allocated to the Benazir Income Support Programme (BISP), which targets providing additional financial support to vulnerable segments of the population. The IMF argues that the current state ownership of various enterprises is detrimental to the economy in the current economic climate and suggests implementing reforms in this sector.
It’s worth noting that the Ministry of Industries has also put forth a proposal to privatize Utility Stores across the country. However, as of now, the caretaker government has not responded to these suggestions and proposals presented by the IMF.
While discussions regarding the privatization of Utility Stores and the potential budget increase for the BISP program continue, the Ministry of Industries and Production has not reached a definitive decision regarding the fate of Utility Stores. The government’s stance on these recommendations remains pending.