Ministry of Finance and Public Enterprises has ordered a 33 percent reduction in employees across government-owned companies. The instruction was given in a directive sent on 17 April 2026 to the Privatisation and Corporatisation Board (PCB).
As per the letter, the decision aims to reduce operating costs and strengthen government spending control. The ministry described the measures as essential for the long-term sustainability of companies and to shape their operations in line with state public finance and operational policies.
Additional reforms mentioned in the letter included improving operational efficiency, strengthening human resource management, and ensuring financial sustainability of state-owned companies.
The government also wants a stronger recruitment system, and following a stronger merit-based hiring policy to ensure the most suitable candidates are selected. In line with this decision, companies must implement the outlined measures, with the Finance Ministry monitoring progress and compliance. Companies are asked to report progress regularly.
According to the ministry, these steps build on earlier cost-cutting measures, such as limiting hiring and promotions, controlling salaries and benefits, reducing overtime, cancelling non-essential events, and cutting travel and discretionary spending.