ISLAMABAD, April 28, 2026 — Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Tuesday directed authorities to simplify regulatory processes, enhance investor facilitation, and accelerate digital transformation to boost both domestic and foreign investment in Pakistan.
Chairing a high-level meeting on investment promotion, the prime minister emphasized that improving the ease of doing business remains a top priority for the government, particularly as Pakistan seeks to strengthen exports and stabilize economic growth.
PM Shehbaz instructed relevant departments to ensure that investors receive all necessary facilities without delays and called for the removal of unnecessary bureaucratic hurdles. PM Shehbaz also stressed the need to improve coordination between government institutions and investors through stronger communication channels.
A key focus of the meeting was the digitization of licensing and approval systems. The prime minister directed officials to expedite ongoing efforts to make regulatory compliance more efficient, transparent, and cost-effective.
“The establishment of the Special Investment Facilitation Council (SIFC) has significantly improved investor confidence in Pakistan,” PM Shehbaz said, highlighting the government’s commitment to creating a business-friendly environment.
Officials briefed the meeting on ongoing reforms, noting that Special Economic Zones (SEZs) contributed 3.7% to Pakistan’s exports during the July–March period of the current fiscal year. The government aims to increase this share to 8% by fiscal year 2028.
Participants were also informed that a Business-Ready Action Plan is being developed in consultation with provincial governments to further streamline investment procedures and regulatory frameworks.
In addition, authorities are establishing a Pakistan Regulatory Registry to digitize approvals and government services, enabling faster and more transparent processing for investors and businesses.
Currently, 21 Special Economic Zones are operational across Pakistan, with plans to expand the number to 26 by 2026 as part of broader industrial development efforts.
The meeting was further briefed on the Asaan Karobar Act, which aims to reduce red tape and promote digital services for business registration and operations.
Senior officials including Law Minister Azam Nazeer Tarar, Economic Affairs Minister Ahad Khan Cheema, IT Minister Shaza Fatima, and Finance State Minister Bilal Azhar Kayani attended the meeting, along with other high-ranking government representatives.
The government reiterated its commitment to structural reforms aimed at improving Pakistan’s investment climate and supporting long-term economic growth.