The Economic Coordination Committee (ECC) has expressed satisfaction over the recent decline in inflation and the relative stability of prices in the country. The meeting, chaired by Finance Minister Muhammad Aurangzeb, reviewed key economic indicators and market trends, highlighting improvements in the prices of essential commodities.
According to the official statement issued after the meeting, the prices of several basic food items, including tomatoes, onions, flour, garlic, and sugar, have shown a consistent downward trend. The committee noted that these developments reflect ongoing efforts to stabilize markets and ease the financial burden on consumers.
During the session, the ECC approved a number of financial allocations and policy measures aimed at strengthening governance and public welfare. In addition, a grant of Rs100 million was approved for the Cannabis Control and Regulatory Authority, while Rs30 million was sanctioned as rewards for the national hockey team upon qualifying for the World Cup.
Additionally, Rs372 million was allocated to the National Accountability Bureau (NAB) for digital transformation and the implementation of artificial intelligence systems to enhance operational efficiency.
The committee also approved approximately Rs6 billion for the Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) Holding Company. The funds will be utilized to ensure the timely payment of salaries and pensions to employees, addressing ongoing financial challenges within the organization.
In a move to support public sector officials, the ECC sanctioned over Rs310 million under a special incentive package for officers posted in Balochistan. The committee emphasized the importance of incentivizing service in remote and underdeveloped regions to improve administrative performance.
Furthermore, the ECC decided to impose a ban on the import of goods produced through forced labor, reaffirming the government’s commitment to ethical trade practices and international standards.
Despite the overall positive trend, the committee acknowledged a slight increase of 1.01 percent in inflation, with prices of 15 items rising while 9 items recorded a decrease. The ECC also approved a pilot project for the repair and re-export of vehicles and auto parts, along with proposals related to donkey meat and hides from the Gwadar Dangy slaughterhouse.
