Naqvi hints at major ‘system reset’ in Pakistan

Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi has said Pakistan is heading towards a major “system reset” that could improve governance and the overall functioning of the country.

Speaking at an event organised to welcome the newly elected office-bearers of the Lahore Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Naqvi said meaningful reforms would require cooperation from the business community.

He said Pakistan should study the systems and experiences of developed countries and introduce changes suited to its own needs. Naqvi did not disclose details of the proposed reset but expressed confidence that it would bring improvements in several areas.

The minister also stressed the need to strengthen Pakistan’s exports and reduce dependence on imported goods. He said every dollar earned through exports was important, regardless of the overall target.

Naqvi urged businesses to focus on locally manufactured products under the “Made in Pakistan” concept. He said Pakistan spends more than $40 billion each year on imports other than oil and suggested that a significant portion of this amount could eventually be reduced by producing more goods domestically.

Referring to Iran, Naqvi said his recent visits had given him a closer look at the country’s manufacturing capacity despite decades of sanctions and conflict. He pointed to Iran’s automobile and construction industries as examples of domestic production.

“If Iran can manufacture a wide range of products despite facing sanctions, Pakistan can also increase its own manufacturing capacity,” he said.

Naqvi proposed that the Lahore Chamber should prepare a “Made in Pakistan” plan alongside efforts to increase exports. He said setting realistic targets and working consistently towards them could help Pakistan make substantial economic progress within the next three to four years.

His comments come as debate continues over wider administrative and governance reforms, including proposals for creating new provinces.

Naqvi has previously argued that Pakistan needs additional administrative units to improve governance, justice delivery and opportunities for its growing population. The proposal has triggered differing reactions among political parties, particularly in Sindh.

The PPP has opposed any move to divide Sindh, while MQM-P has supported the creation of new provinces and called for broader political discussions on administrative devolution.

The Sindh Assembly has also rejected proposals to divide the province, maintaining that any change to its territorial boundaries must have broad political and public support.

Naqvi, however, has continued to advocate for the creation of new provinces, saying the final decision should reflect the will of the people.