Prime Institute (PRIME), the Policy Research Institute of Market Economy, is an independent, non-partisan economic policy think tank based in Islamabad, Pakistan. Founded in 2013, PRIME is committed to advancing public understanding of policy rooted in the principles of free markets, individual liberty, and limited government. Our mission is to promote reform by producing original research, building coalitions, and engaging stakeholders across Pakistan.
PRIME is led by its Founder and Chief Executive Officer, Dr Ali Salman.
In the years since its founding, PRIME has grown from a small research outfit into one of Pakistan’s established independent voices on taxation, trade, regulation, and economic freedom. Since 2020, the institute has entered a new phase of growth, responding to a shifting economic landscape marked by tentative macroeconomic stabilization. While progress is visible, there is broad consensus that Pakistan’s long-term prosperity depends on structural and governance reforms. We believe that the key to resolving these challenges lies in the creation of competitive markets.
PRIME plays a multifaceted role as a generator of ideas, a coalition builder, and a catalyst for economic reform. Our approach combines research, public education, media engagement, coalition development, and policy advocacy.
As part of our strategy, we launched Taxpayers’ Alliance Pakistan, a growing platform with 117 members from business, academia, and professional sectors, committed to advocating for taxpayer rights and fiscal reform.
Prime Institute is led by Dr Ali Salman, who founded the institute in 2013 and serves as its Founder and Chief Executive Officer.
We are guided by a Research Board of 20 scholars from diverse academic backgrounds including,
Furthermore, we are powered by an Economic Advisory Group comprising distinguished economists, business professionals, and policymakers.
A fortnightly online talk show examining how business intersects with the state and society, with discussions on topics such as economic freedom, regulation, and enterprise-led development.
Monthly reports offering timely analysis on key economic and policy issues, authored by our staff and fellows.
Short policy briefs diagnosing specific problems and offering actionable solutions. These also include assessments of major government reports or legislative proposals.
Our annual flagship event convenes business leaders, policymakers, and academics to debate progress and challenges to individual and enterprise prosperity.
