The State of Pakistan's Economy in 2024: Challenges and Opportunities
As 2024 unfolds, Pakistan's economy remains in a precarious state, grappling with multiple challenges that have been exacerbated by both global and domestic factors.
The country is facing significant economic hurdles, including high inflation, a ballooning debt burden, and a persistent energy crisis. However, there are also some areas of resilience and potential opportunities for growth.
Inflation and Currency Depreciation
One of the most pressing issues for Pakistan in 2024 is the soaring inflation rate, which has severely impacted the purchasing power of the average citizen. Inflation has been driven by a combination of factors, including rising global oil prices, supply chain disruptions, and the depreciation of the Pakistani rupee. The rupee has faced considerable pressure against the US dollar, with its value declining sharply in recent months. This depreciation has made imports more expensive, further fueling inflation.
The government has been struggling to control inflation, with measures such as increasing interest rates and implementing price controls on essential goods. However, these efforts have had limited success, and the cost of living continues to rise, placing immense strain on households across the country.