China, Saudi Arabia, Qatar, and Türkiye have expressed interest in investing in Pakistan’s power distribution companies (DISCOs) as the government moves forward with plans to privatize several major electricity utilities.
Officials from the Privatization Commission informed the National Assembly Standing Committee on Privatization that investors from the four countries are exploring opportunities to participate in the upcoming privatization process, potentially alongside local partners.
According to the briefing, the government plans to sell stakes ranging from 51 percent to 100 percent in three major distribution companies:
- Islamabad Electric Supply Company (IESCO)
- Gujranwala Electric Power Company (GEPCO)
- Faisalabad Electric Supply Company (FESCO)
Officials also revealed that no investor—local or foreign—will be allowed to acquire more than one DISCO. The policy is intended to encourage competition and ensure broader participation in the privatization process.
To attract potential investors, the government plans to hold investment roadshows in China, Saudi Arabia, Qatar, and Türkiye, where officials will showcase investment opportunities available in Pakistan’s power sector.
The privatization of distribution companies is a key part of the government’s broader energy sector reform strategy. Authorities hope private-sector participation will help improve operational efficiency, reduce financial losses, strengthen bill recovery, and enhance service delivery.
The planned sale represents one of the most significant privatization efforts in Pakistan’s power sector in recent years.
Officials believe that bringing in private ownership and management could help address long-standing challenges facing distribution companies, including high transmission and distribution losses, weak revenue collection, and operational inefficiencies.
The development comes as Pakistan continues efforts to implement structural reforms, improve the performance of state-owned enterprises, attract foreign investment, and reduce pressure on public finances.
