Utility Stores Corporation Asset Sale Gains Momentum in September 2025 – Key Details
The government has announced major progress in the Utility Stores Corporation (USC) asset sale process during September 2025. This move is part of the broader privatization agenda aimed at reducing losses in state-owned enterprises and attracting private sector investment.
یہ اقدام حکومتی مالیاتی پالیسی کا حصہ ہے جس کے تحت غیر منافع بخش اداروں کی نجی شعبے کو منتقلی کی جارہی ہے تاکہ سرکاری اخراجات میں کمی لائی جا سکے اور عوام کو بہتر سہولیات فراہم کی جا سکیں۔
Utility Stores Corporation Privatization Update
The Utility Stores Corporation of Pakistan has been facing operational challenges for years due to rising costs, administrative inefficiencies, and mounting financial losses. The government has now taken concrete steps to sell off certain non-core assets of USC. According to the latest update, a significant portion of land and unused properties of the corporation have been listed for auction.
Officials confirmed that the process is being carried out in coordination with the Privatization Commission of Pakistan, ensuring transparency and fairness.
Why the Asset Sale is Important
The asset sale will help the government in:
- Generating much-needed revenue.
- Reducing the financial burden of loss-making enterprises.
- Promoting private sector involvement in retail operations.
- Improving efficiency and service delivery to the public.
This is a step toward creating a self-sustainable retail network, where the government focuses on regulatory frameworks while private investors manage operations.
Details of Assets on Sale
The following table outlines the major categories of assets being offered under the current phase:
| Asset Type | Location | Estimated Value (PKR) | Status |
|---|---|---|---|
| Commercial Plots | Islamabad, Lahore | 8 Billion | Auction Planned |
| Warehouses & Storage Units | Karachi, Multan | 3.5 Billion | Shortlisted |
| Residential Properties | Quetta, Peshawar | 2 Billion | For Evaluation |
| Miscellaneous Land Holdings | Nationwide | 1.5 Billion | Open Bidding |
Future of Utility Stores Network
While some assets are being sold, the government has clarified that the essential utility store network for public relief will not be dismantled. Instead, it will be modernized through public-private partnerships. This will ensure that subsidized products remain available to deserving households under different government programs.
Privatization Roadmap
The sale of USC assets is part of a larger privatization plan that includes other state-owned enterprises. The roadmap has been designed to gradually shift non-profitable institutions to the private sector while safeguarding public interest.
Challenges in Implementation
Experts believe the asset sale is a positive development but caution that challenges remain. These include:
- Maintaining transparency in the auction process.
- Avoiding undervaluation of prime properties.
- Ensuring continuity of subsidies for low-income groups.
Conclusion
The major progress in Utility Stores Corporation asset sale marks an important step in Pakistan’s ongoing privatization drive. If implemented with transparency and fairness, the move will not only strengthen the national economy but also ensure that essential relief programs continue without interruption. The future success of this initiative depends on striking the right balance between revenue generation and public welfare.
