PR NO. 180
Public-Private Dialogue Highlights Regulatory Reforms Across Key Sectors
Islamabad, 15th November 2024

As part of the Honorable Prime Minister's vision to foster economic growth and enhance investment opportunities in Pakistan, a Public-Private Dialogue on Regulatory Reforms in key economic sectors was held today in Islamabad. The initiative, led by the Prime Minister and the Federal Minister for Investment, reflects the government’s commitment to promoting a robust business environment and driving reforms that ensure global competitiveness across critical sectors such as Land Transport (Logistics), Pharmaceuticals and Healthcare Devices, Textile and Apparel, and Agri-Storage. The event was inaugurated by Mukarram Jah Ansari, Member Customs, and concluded with remarks from Additional Secretary Ambreen Iftikhar, who emphasized the importance of these reforms in unlocking economic potential and supporting sustainable growth. These sectors are integral to Pakistan’s economic framework, with logistics shaping trade efficiency, healthcare devices ensuring access to quality health services, textiles forming the backbone of exports, and modern agri-storage facilities enhancing food security. Strengthening regulatory frameworks in these areas is essential to aligning with global standards, attracting foreign direct investment (FDI), and addressing challenges in global supply chains. The dialogue aimed to: 1. Review the current regulatory landscape. 2. Identify areas requiring reforms. 3. Propose actionable solutions to improve the ease of doing business and boost sectoral competitiveness. This dialogue builds on the regulatory reforms spearheaded by the Pakistan Regulatory Modernization Initiative (PRMI), a landmark program launched in 2016. Under PRMI, over 170 regulatory improvements have been successfully implemented, significantly enhancing Pakistan’s investment climate. The Prime Minister has personally championed the ease of doing business agenda, ensuring that reforms are not only well-planned but also implemented efficiently. The Federal Minister for Investment has played a pivotal role in coordinating with stakeholders and driving these efforts forward. Both leaders have emphasized that such reforms are vital to creating a thriving business ecosystem, attracting investment, and positioning Pakistan as a competitive player in the global economy. Additional Secretary Ambreen Iftikhar, in her closing remarks, highlighted the importance of public-private partnerships in realizing the government’s vision of sustainable economic progress. She reaffirmed that the recommendations arising from this dialogue will be presented to the Prime Minister for further action, ensuring alignment with the broader national strategy. The Board of Investment expressed gratitude to REMIT-FCDO, Pakistan Business Council, SMEDA, IFC, and other development partners for their invaluable contributions to this initiative, underscoring the collective effort required to achieve impactful reforms.

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