Karachi, December 24, 2025 – The Karachi Chamber of Commerce and Industry (KCCI) on Wednesday extended its congratulations to the Arif Habib-led consortium for the successful acquisition of Pakistan International Airlines (PIA), describing it as a historic milestone for Pakistan’s aviation sector and the country’s broader economic reform agenda.
Chairman of the Businessmen Group (BMG) Zubair Motiwala and KCCI President Muhammad Rehan Hanif praised the leadership of Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir, Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif, Deputy Prime Minister and Finance Minister Senator Muhammad Ishaq Dar, and Advisor to the Prime Minister on Privatization Muhammad Ali for their strategic role in bringing the long-pending privatization to fruition.
Both Motiwala and Hanif emphasized that the takeover of PIA by a credible and experienced local consortium represents a decisive step toward reviving the national carrier. They noted that PIA, once a symbol of national pride and one of Asia’s leading airlines, had suffered decades of financial losses, governance challenges, and operational inefficiencies under state ownership. The privatization, executed through a transparent and competitive process, provides a realistic opportunity to restore PIA’s regional and international stature.
Zubair Motiwala highlighted Arif Habib’s proven expertise in corporate governance, financial restructuring, and institution-building, expressing confidence that the consortium can transform PIA into a commercially viable, customer-focused airline. He underscored that the privatization is not merely a transaction but a critical step in rebuilding investor confidence and signaling Pakistan’s potential as an investable destination.
Motiwala also noted that privatization of PIA alone is expected to save the government nearly Rs100 billion annually, funds that can now be redirected toward social services, infrastructure, and economic development. He encouraged acceleration of privatization efforts for other state-owned enterprises to strengthen Pakistan’s economy and attract foreign investment.
President KCCI Muhammad Rehan Hanif added that a professionally managed PIA would have significant multiplier effects on tourism, trade, connectivity, employment, foreign exchange earnings, and Pakistan’s global image. He expressed optimism that PIA could regain its position as one of the region’s most profitable and respected airlines under private management.
Both KCCI leaders urged all stakeholders to ensure smooth operations and full cooperation during PIA’s transition phase, calling the acquisition a bold and timely reform-oriented step that will boost economic growth and investor confidence in Pakistan.