The 7th meeting of the Cabinet Committee on Regulatory Reforms was chaired by Federal Minister for Board of Investment, Mr. Qaiser Ahmed Sheikh, to review the progress on the implementation of wide-ranging regulatory reforms aimed at improving the ease of doing business in Pakistan. The meeting was attended by senior officials from all relevant stakeholder ministries and departments, including Additional Secretary Board of Investment Zulfiqar Ali and other senior officials of the Board of Investment.
The primary agenda of the meeting was to assess the implementation status of the reforms and identify areas requiring urgent attention. The Committee was informed that a total of 410 reforms have been endorsed so far, out of which a substantial number have been implemented, 264 reforms are on-track while 67 reforms were identified as off-track and were taken up for detailed review.
At the outset, the Committee discussed a few previously contested decisions and reviewed their current status. It was noted that overall progress has been encouraging; however, certain reforms require renewed focus to ensure timely implementation.
During the meeting, the Committee deliberated on key reform areas including regulatory simplification, digitalisation, and removal of unnecessary procedural requirements. It was emphasized that redundant permits—particularly those related to exports—should be rationalized to facilitate businesses, while ensuring that importing countries maintain required quality standards.
The Committee also reviewed reforms in broader regulatory sectors, focusing on streamlining procedures and enhancing institutional efficiency. The reform concerning the elimination of trade licensing at the municipal level was discussed; few reforms regarding Pakistan Tobacco Board also came under discussion.
Discussion was also held on proposed amendments related to the State Bank of Pakistan, where revised language was considered to ensure clarity and effective implementation.
Referring to his recent official visit to the United Kingdom, Federal Minister Qaiser Ahmed Sheikh highlighted that international stakeholders acknowledged Pakistan’s reform trajectory and expressed confidence in the country’s improving business climate. He noted that Pakistan’s global perception has improved significantly, adding that both international investors and domestic business communities are increasingly recognizing the government’s efforts to remove unnecessary hurdles.
The Federal Minister stated that under the leadership of the Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, the government is effectively promoting ease of doing business through comprehensive reforms. He emphasized that unnecessary regulatory barriers are being systematically addressed to create a more business-friendly and transparent environment.
While reviewing the off-track reforms, the Minister directed all relevant stakeholders to expedite the implementation process, remove bottlenecks, and prioritize digitalisation to enhance efficiency and transparency. He also appreciated the progress made so far and urged all departments to continue working with the same dedication and commitment.
The meeting was further briefed by team of SMART project, which is playing a pivotal role in overseeing and facilitating the implementation of reforms through a structured monitoring mechanism.
The Board of Investment reaffirmed its commitment to advancing the regulatory reform agenda in close coordination with all stakeholders to ensure sustainable economic growth and an improved business environment in Pakistan.
Board of Investment under the leadership of Federal Minister Qaiser Ahmed Sheikh remains committed to facilitating investors and promoting ease of doing business in the country.
