The long-awaited privatisation process of the national flag carrier has formally moved ahead as PIA Privatisation Enters First Bidding Round as Arif Habib Group Tops Offers, marking a major step in the government’s economic reform agenda. The development signals growing investor interest in Pakistan International Airlines and renewed confidence in the aviation sector.
During the first round of bidding, the Arif Habib Group emerged as the highest bidder with an offer of Rs115 billion for PIA. The Lucky Cement Consortium followed closely with a bid of Rs101.5 billion, while Air Blue also took part in the process by submitting a bid exceeding Rs26 billion. Officials confirmed that the bidding attracted serious interest from leading local business groups, reflecting the scale and importance of the transaction.
After the completion of the first round, the Arif Habib Group and the Lucky Cement Consortium qualified for the next stage of bidding. Authorities announced that the subsequent round would resume after a brief 30-minute interval, with the base price fixed at Rs115 billion, matching the highest offer from the initial phase. The structured process aims to ensure transparency and competitive pricing.
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Chairman of the Privatisation Commission Muhammad Ali said the government views the sale of PIA as a gateway to broader investment opportunities. He stated that the bidding process will open new avenues for investors and strengthen confidence in Pakistan’s reform trajectory. He added that potential bidders received full details of the procedure as early as April. According to him, two parties showed interest in acquiring 100 percent ownership of the airline, while two others expressed willingness to purchase a 75 percent stake.
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The government has repeatedly described PIA’s privatisation as a landmark initiative designed to improve operational efficiency, reduce financial burden, and modernise Pakistan’s aviation industry. Officials believe private sector management will help revive the airline and enhance service standards.
This initial bidding round represents a crucial milestone in the wider plan to privatise state-owned enterprises. Market watchers say the PIA process is being closely monitored by both domestic and international investors, as it could set the tone for future privatisation drives and signal Pakistan’s commitment to economic restructuring. As PIA Privatisation Enters First Bidding Round as Arif Habib Group Tops Offers, expectations remain high for a competitive and transparent outcome.