Pakistan, with a current population of approximately 250 million projected to reach 400 million by 2050, has a GDP of around $350 billion. Recent reports indicate that the country has secured $9 billion from the IMF and foreign direct investments (FDIs), but experts argue that this is insufficient for sustainable economic growth. The economy generates about $1 billion daily, highlighting the need for more robust strategies to enhance GDP [68ca452d].
One ambitious proposal suggests adding $100 billion to Pakistan's GDP over the next decade through targeted initiatives across key sectors. The agriculture sector is highlighted as a significant opportunity, with an emphasis on grassroots food processing, which could evolve into a $30 billion industry. Additionally, promoting Gandhara-based Buddhist tourism aims to attract just 1% of the estimated 500 million Buddhists worldwide, potentially creating another $30 billion sector [68ca452d].
Moreover, the plan includes exporting qualified labor, with a target of sending 1 million Pakistani youth abroad, which could yield up to $80 billion in remittances. This multifaceted approach not only seeks to boost GDP but also addresses employment challenges by leveraging the skills of the youth [68ca452d].
In conjunction with these strategies, Pakistan's per capita income has recently increased to $1680 in FY 2024, reflecting a rise in economic activity and better exchange rates. The ICT sector has also shown remarkable growth, with exports surging to $2.283 billion during FY2024, indicating a strong potential for digital economy expansion [7d611e80]. The government is focusing on enhancing the IT sector with significant budget allocations and initiatives aimed at digital transformation, which aligns with the broader economic goals outlined in Vision 2035 [7d611e80].
With sustained efforts in agriculture, tourism, and labor export, Pakistan aims to not only enhance its GDP but also improve the living standards of its citizens, setting a course for a more prosperous future by 2035.