Assignment N1 Economic Impact of COVID-19-1

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Impact of COVID-19 on Pakistan’s GDP and industries

Submitted to: Madam Nimra gull


Submitted by: Muhammad Abbas
Semester: BS.1st
Roll no: 305-241045

 INTRODUCTION:-
The COVID-19 pandemic created one of the
most profound disruptions in modern economic history, shaking
economies worldwide. Pakistan was no exception. The virus forced
industries to shut down, slowed trade, and disrupted daily life,
leading to severe economic consequences. Pakistan’s GDP, which
had been growing steadily, shrank for the first time in decades. The
service, tourism, and manufacturing industries took a hard hit,
causing unemployment and uncertainty-

However, alongside these challenges, the crisis also opened new


avenues for growth in certain areas like e-commerce, healthcare,
and technology. Pakistan had to respond creatively to survive the
crisis, with both the government and the private sector adopting
innovative solutions. This assignment explores the negative and
positive impacts of COVID-19 on Pakistan’s economy and suggests
how we can overcome the challenges-

 Impact of COVID-19 on pakistan GDP:-


The pandemic disrupted
Pakistan’s economy in 2020, leading to the first economic
contraction in 68 years, with GDP shrinking by 0.94%. Before COVID-
19, Pakistan’s economy had been projected t” grow by 2.4%. The
service and industrial sectors, which contribute significantly to the
country’s GDP, were hit the hardest due to lockdowns and
restrictions. Many businesses closed down, supply chains broke, and
global demand for Pakistani exports fell.

International trade and remittances, which play a key role in


supporting Pakistan’s economy, also saw a decline. However, by
2021-2022, the economy showed signs of recovery with a growth
rate of around 6%. The government’s quick interventions, such as
financial stimulus packages and tax relief programs, played a role in
stabilizing the economy. Yet, the overall recovery remains fragile,
with inflation, unemployment, and rising debt still posing significant
risks

 Negative impacts:-

1. GDP Contraction:

GROWTH RATE:-
Pakistan's GDP contracted significantly due to lockdowns and reduced economic activity. The growth rate fell
from around 1.9% in 2019 to approximately
-0.4% in 2020.
Sectoral Impact: Key sectors such as manufacturing, services, and agriculture faced disruptions, leading to
decreased output

2:- UNEMPLOYMENT
Job losses: Many businesses, especially in hospitality, tourism, and retail, had to close or
downsize, resulting in widespread job losses.

Informal Sector::A large portion of the workforce is in the informal sector,


which was severely affected, leading to increased poverty levels.
Supply Chain Disruptions:
3:- Supply Chain Disruptions:
Improts and Exports:: Restrictions on trade and transportation affected supply chains, leading
to shortages of raw materials and finished goods.

Market access : Export-oriented industries faced challenges in accessing international markets due to global
restrictions.
4:- Inflation:-
Price increases:Disruptions in supply chains and increased demand for
certain goods led to inflation, further straining household budgets.

POSITIVE IMPACT

1:- Digital Transformation:-


E-commerce Growth:: The pandemic accelerated the adoption of digital platforms for
business, leading to growth in e-commerce and online services.

Remot work:- Many companies adopted remote work policies, which may lead to long-term changes in work culture
and productivity.

Health Sector improvement:


Investment in Health Infrastructure:
The crisis highlighted the need for better healthcare facilities, prompting increased investment in the health
sector.
Addressing Challenges:
To mitigate the negative impacts and build resilience, Pakistan can consider the following strategies:
1:-Economic stimulus:
Government Support:-Implementing fiscal measures to support businesses and individuals, such as cash transfers
and tex relief
Investment Challenges:
Accelerating infrastructure projects to create jobs and stimulate economic activity.
2:- Support Affected iNdustries:-
Targeted Assistance: Providing financial aid and support to the most affected sectors, such as tourism and
manufacturing.
Skill Development:-: Offering training programs to help workers transition to new industries or roles.
3:-Enhancing Digital Infrastructure:
promoting E-Commerce;- Encouraging businesses to adopt digital solutions and improving internet
access, especially in rural areas.

Impact of COVID-19 on Pakistan’s GDP

The pandemic disrupted Pakistan’s economy in 2020, leading to the


first economic contraction in 68 years, with GDP shrinking by 0.94%.
Before COVID-19, Pakistan’s economy had been projected t” grow
by 2.4%. The service and industrial sectors, which contribute
significantly to the country’s GDP, were hit the hardest due to
lockdowns and restrictions. Many businesses closed down, supply
chains broke, and global demand for Pakistani exports fell.

International trade and remittances, which play a key role in


supporting Pakistan’s economy, also saw a decline. However, by
2021-2022, the economy showed signs of recovery with a growth
rate of around 6%. The government’s quick interventions, such as
financial stimulus packages and tax relief programs, played a role in
stabilizing the economy. Yet, the overall recovery remains fragile,
with inflation, unemployment, and rising debt still posing significant
risks.

Impact on Key Industries

1. Manufacturing and Textile Industry

The manufacturing sector, especially textile production, which


accounts for a large share of exports, was severely impacted. Global
lockdowns reduced demand for Pakistani textiles, leading to a
decline in exports. Additionally, disruptions in the supply chain
delayed the arrival of raw materials, further slowing down
production. Many factories operated at reduced capacity, and some
workers lost their jobs.
However, as the global economy started to reopen, demand for
textile products surged. Pakistan’s textile industry saw a bounce-
back in exports, and the government introduced duty exemptions
and loans to help industries recover.

2. Tourism and Hospitality Sector

The tourism and hospitality sector was one of the worst-hit


industries. Travel restrictions and the closure of hotels, restaurants,
and tourist attractions caused a sharp decline in revenues. Major
tourist destinations such as Hunza, Swat, and Murree saw fewer
visitors, affecting small businesses that rely on tourism.
The government is now focusing on domestic tourism and plans to
promote travel once the pandemic stabilizes. Efforts like soft loans
for the tourism sector and marketing campaigns are being used to
encourage recovery.

3. Retail and E-commerce

Traditional retail businesses faced significant losses due to


lockdowns, but e-commerce and online delivery services
experienced a boom. Many consumers switched to online shopping,
which accelerated the growth of platforms like Darazand other
delivery services. This shift has created new job opportunities,
especially for logistics and tech-related businesses. However, many
small retailers who could not adapt to digital platforms struggled or
shut down.

4. Health and Pharmaceutical Industry

The healthcare sector faced immense pressure during the


pandemic. Hospitals struggled to manage the influx of COVID-19
patients, and the government had to increase healthcare spending
to build emergency facilities and procure medical equipment. On the
positive side, the pandemic boosted the pharmaceutical industry
and created opportunities for local manufacturers of sanitizers,
masks, and personal protective equipment (PPE). This has laid the
foundation for a more resilient healthcare system in the long run.

5. Education and Technology Sector


Schools, colleges, and universities were forced to switch to online
learning, leading to a rapid adoption of ed-tech platforms. This
transition was difficult, especially for students from rural areas with
limited access to the internet. However, it also spurred the growth of
digital education tools and opened up new opportunities for
freelancers and tech startups. Platforms like Zoom and Google
Classroom became essential tools for learning.

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