The Pakistan Economic Survey 2024–25, a crucial document that assesses the country’s economic performance over the past year, will be officially launched today. Federal Minister for Finance and Revenue Senator Muhammad Aurangzeb is scheduled to present the survey, which outlines the government’s evaluation of key economic indicators and sets the groundwork for the upcoming federal budget.
The Economic Survey is an essential pre-budget publication that offers insights into the country’s economic landscape. It serves as a reference for policymakers, analysts, and the public to understand the nation’s progress and challenges across various sectors.
Key Highlights and Economic Performance
The survey provides a detailed analysis of Pakistan’s socio-economic progress during the outgoing fiscal year, covering sectors such as agriculture, industry, manufacturing, services, health, education, infrastructure, and information technology. It also includes developments in social protection programs, climate change, and environmental sustainability.
According to data endorsed by the National Economic Council (NEC), Pakistan’s GDP growth for 2024–25 was recorded at 2.7%, with a target of 4.2% for the next fiscal year. The NEC also noted a 30.9% surge in remittances from July 2024 to April 2025. For the first time in recent years, the current account balance remained in surplus during this period.
The survey will also showcase a reduction in the fiscal deficit to 2.6% of GDP, while the primary balance registered a 3% surplus, reflecting better fiscal management. Due to improved fundamentals and a proactive monetary policy, the policy interest rate was gradually reduced to 11%, and Rs681 billion in credit was extended to the private sector between July 2024 and May 2025.
Focus on Agriculture and Development Spending
The agriculture sector has emerged as a stabilising force, contributing significantly to national reserves and economic expansion. A comprehensive strategy is under development to ensure sustainable agricultural productivity, which the government sees as key to long-term economic resilience.
On the development front, the Annual National Development Programme (ANDP) for 2024–25 received an allocation of Rs3,483 billion. This includes Rs1,100 billion for federal development projects and Rs2,383 billion for provincial initiatives, underlining the joint commitment of both federal and provincial governments toward national progress.
The coordinated efforts between the two levels of government have played a vital role in moving the country toward economic recovery and growth, according to the NEC.
Parliamentary Schedule for Budget Session
In preparation for the new fiscal year, National Assembly Speaker Sardar Ayaz Sadiq approved the parliamentary schedule for the 2025–26 federal budget session, set to begin on June 10.
The budget debate will run from June 13 to June 21, allowing all parliamentary parties to participate as per procedural rules. On June 24 and 25, discussions and voting on demands, grants, and cut motions will take place. The Finance Bill 2025–26 is expected to be passed on June 26, followed by voting on supplementary grants and other matters on June 27.
The Economic Survey 2024–25 is expected to inform this debate and guide fiscal consolidation, macroeconomic stability, and inclusive growth strategies for the upcoming year.
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