ISLAMABAD: Pakistan has initiated a non-deal roadshow in Beijing from July 7 to 11, 2025, to promote its upcoming debut of Panda Bonds in the Chinese financial markets.
According to Khurram Shehzad, the country’s economic advisor, the roadshow will focus on Pakistan’s macroeconomic outlook, debt restructuring strategies, and details about the proposed Panda Bond issuance. Led by the Ministry of Finance, this non-deal investor roadshow aims to engage Chinese investors and financial institutions ahead of the official launch scheduled later this year.
Officials are conducting technical discussions with underwriters, credit rating agencies, legal consultants, and potential guarantors to facilitate the process. Finance Minister Muhammad Aurangzeb previously indicated that the Panda Bonds will be denominated in Chinese yuan, with an expected issuance size of between $200 million and $300 million.
The issuance is being supported by various development partners, including the Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank (AIIB), which may offer credit guarantees to bolster investor confidence. This move forms part of Pakistan’s broader strategy to diversify its funding sources, lessen reliance on dollar-denominated debt, and improve its credit rating to a single ‘B’ grade. It also aims to deepen Pakistan’s integration with China’s capital markets.
Minister Aurangzeb also urged China’s private sector and export industries to consider relocating some production facilities to Pakistan, positioning the country as a key regional export hub. This initiative aligns with the second phase of the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC), which will emphasize special economic zones, agriculture, and information technology sectors.
Furthermore, Pakistan is undertaking safety enhancements to safeguard foreign investors and operational companies, demonstrating the government’s commitment to creating a secure and attractive investment environment.
The initial response to Pakistan’s Panda Bond roadshow has been promising, reflecting growing investor confidence in Pakistan’s economic reforms and its increasing credibility within international capital markets.
In addition, the Pakistani government has officially approved the “Virtual Assets Act, 2025,” following endorsements from the Federal Cabinet, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, and President Asif Ali Zardari. The legislation aims to establish a regulatory authority tasked with ensuring that virtual assets comply with Shariah principles, paving the way for a regulated digital asset market in the country.
