Adviser to be hired for ZTBL privatization push

ISLAMABAD: Pakistan inched closer to privatizing Zarai Taraqiati Bank Ltd. (ZTBL) on Monday, as the Privatization Commission opened technical bids to hire a financial adviser — a key step in the government’s push to offload struggling state-owned enterprises, an official said.

A committee has now begun evaluating the bids, which were submitted by several financial consulting firms vying to steer the bank’s restructuring and potential sale. The process is part of the government’s push—backed by the International Monetary Fund—to trim its bloated public sector, enhance operational efficiencies, and attract private capital.

ZTBL, a specialised financial institution focused on agricultural lending, has long been plagued by governance issues, rising non-performing loans, and outdated service models. Its reform is considered central to improving rural credit delivery and fostering private-sector participation in agri-financing.

Officials familiar with the matter said financial bids will be invited from technically qualified firms in the next phase. The advisor will play a key role in asset valuation, buyer identification, and transaction structuring.