Pakistan’s Privatisation Commission approved an agreement with the Asian Development Bank to advise on the outsourcing of Islamabad airport through a long-term concession. This will be done through a competitive bidding process.
The commission’s board approved the negotiated Transaction Advisory Services Agreement at its 255th meeting. The meeting was chaired by Muhammad Ali, the prime minister’s adviser on privatisation and the commission’s chairman.
Under the proposed transaction, Islamabad International Airport will be offered to a qualified private operator. The Asian Development Bank will act as transaction adviser and help structure the competitive bidding process.
The Privatisation Commission said ADB’s transaction experience would support a transparent and competitive concession process.
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The commission expects private-sector participation to improve operational efficiency, enhance passenger services and align airport operations with international standards.
The board also approved the appointment of BDO Ebrahim & Company, Chartered Accountants, as external auditor for three financial years from 2025–26 to 2027–28. The Audit Committee recommended the appointment.
The commission said the airport transaction forms part of the federal government’s wider privatisation programme.