The government’s Distribution Companies (DISCO) privatisation plan has entered its implementation phase. Authorities have published Expressions of Interest (EOIs) for three power distribution companies, while the government has approved the transaction structure for the process.
The development came during a review meeting on the privatisation of power distribution companies chaired by Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Tuesday.
PM Directs Faster Privatisation Process
During the meeting, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif reaffirmed the government’s commitment to privatising loss-making state-owned enterprises.
“Privatisation of loss-making state-owned enterprises is our priority,” the prime minister said.
He directed relevant authorities to speed up the privatisation process for distribution companies. He also stressed the need for transparency throughout the exercise.
“The entire privatisation process must be completed with complete transparency,” he said.
The prime minister further instructed officials to establish a regulatory framework following the privatisation of DISCOs to ensure effective oversight and smooth operations.
First Phase Includes Three Power Companies
Officials briefed participants on the progress made so far. They informed the meeting that the first phase of the programme will include the privatisation of three major electricity distribution companies:
Islamabad Electric Supply Company (IESCO)
Gujranwala Electric Power Company (GEPCO)
Faisalabad Electric Supply Company (FESCO)
Authorities have already published EOIs for these companies in both national and international newspapers to attract potential investors.
Government Approves Transaction Structure
Officials also informed the meeting that the Cabinet Committee on Privatisation has approved the transaction structure for the three DISCOs.
The approval marks a significant step toward completing the privatisation process and opening the companies to private sector participation.
Investor Roadshows Planned
To generate investor interest, the government is organising a series of roadshows this month.
Officials said international roadshows are also underway, targeting investors from Saudi Arabia, Türkiye, and China. The government hopes these efforts will attract strong participation from foreign and local investors.
Senior Officials Attend Meeting
Several senior government officials attended the meeting, including Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar, Finance Minister Muhammad Aurangzeb, Power Minister Sardar Awais Leghari, Economic Affairs Minister Ahad Khan Cheema, Law Minister Azam Nazeer Ahmad, Adviser on Privatisation Muhammad Ali, and Minister of State for Finance and Railways Bilal Azhar Kiani.
The government views DISCO privatisation as a key component of its broader strategy to reform the power sector, reduce financial losses, and improve service delivery across the country.