The Privatisation Commission Board (PC Board) has taken a key step toward privatising Islamabad International Airport (IIA). Under the leadership of Muhammad Ali, Adviser to the Prime Minister on Privatisation, the board formed a Negotiation Committee.
This move aims to engage the Asian Development Bank (ADB) for expert advisory support.
Committee Formation and Objectives
The committee will negotiate terms of a Financial Advisory Services Agreement (FASA) with ADB. This follows the board’s prior approval for direct talks under the 2018 Privatisation Regulations. The goal is to outsource IIA operations via a concession model.
This approach seeks open, competitive bidding to boost efficiency and value for Pakistan.
Broader Privatisation Push
IIA was recently added to the active sell-off list by the Privatisation Commission. The process emphasises transparency and rule-based execution to protect public interest. Successful privatisation could improve airport services and reduce government burden.
It aligns with ongoing efforts to reform state assets for better economic outcomes.