Finance Minister Muhammad Aurangzeb has announced plans to issue Panda bonds by June 2025, aiming to raise $200–250 million from Chinese investors. This initiative is part of the government’s strategy to address external debt and improve Pakistan’s credit rating.
In an interview with the South China Morning Post, Aurangzeb highlighted the crucial role of Chinese investment in stabilizing Pakistan’s economy. He mentioned ongoing discussions with the Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank (AIIB) to secure guarantees for the bonds.
The finance minister reaffirmed the government’s commitment to upgrading Pakistan’s credit rating to single B in the near future.
Regarding the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC), Aurangzeb emphasized Pakistan’s focus on deepening cooperation with China in the next phase of the project. He encouraged Chinese private enterprises and export industries to invest in Pakistan, positioning the country as a potential export hub for Chinese companies. He assured that measures would be taken to enhance the security of Chinese businesses operating in Pakistan. “China’s investment and partnership are vital for Pakistan’s economic growth and stability, especially during these challenging times,” he stated.
