Arif Habib Consortium Proposes Rs 45 Billion for Remaining 25% PIA Shares, and the move has grabbed national attention as a major PIA privatization update. The Arif Habib Rs 45 billion offer aims to acquire the remaining 25% stake in Pakistan International Airlines. This offer builds on the previous 75% PIA shares acquisition that the group already holds. So, this bid could complete the transfer of full operational control of the national flag carrier sale.
The government stake in PIA has been trending in the news because of years of financial losses. Privatization cash inflow of Rs 10.2 billion from earlier rounds brought relief to public finances. Now, the large-scale privatization milestone could further reduce taxpayer subsidy savings. Many analysts say the deal might cut the annual operational cost of the airline by Rs35 billion annually.
Investors are watching the competitive bidding process closely. Reports show the Lucky Consortium’s competing bid included Fatima Fertiliser, City Schools, and Lake City Holdings participation. But the Arif Habib Group final bid looks stronger because it meets or exceeds the reserve price for PIA shares set by the government. Conditional sale agreements may include strict performance targets and transparency in bidding rounds.
The expected management changes in PIA could come after the PIA shareholding transfer terms are signed. Experts anticipate new leadership to strengthen airline operational efficiency and revive the financial performance of PIA. Because previous failed privatization attempts left public trust low, the government has promised more oversight in privatization to ensure success.
This offer also ties into Pakistan’s broader economic reform agenda. Pakistan needs to attract foreign and local investment. Analysts believe that completing the acquisition of the remaining 25% shares could boost the investment climate in Pakistan. Still, many caution that strategic execution and good governance will determine if this privatization delivers real change.
