Overseas Investors Chamber of Commerce and Industry (OICCI) released its Perception and Investment Survey 2025. The survey covered over 200 foreign investors. Results show 73% of members now consider Pakistan suitable for foreign direct investment, up from 61% in 2023. Investors expressed cautious optimism about Pakistan’s business environment and economic conditions.
The survey highlights that Pakistan’s regional ranking for investment has improved. Investors believe the country now competes favorably with Bangladesh, Vietnam, and the Philippines. Parent companies of foreign firms in Pakistan also showed growing interest in expanding investments. Around 35% reported seeing Pakistan as a priority for future FDI.
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OICCI President Yusuf Hussain said improvements reflect economic stability and better policy coordination. Initiatives like the Special Investment Facilitation Council have streamlined investment processes. Investors emphasized that consistent reforms, private sector involvement, and regulatory improvements are key to sustaining growth.
Despite optimism, structural challenges remain. Fifty-seven percent of participants criticized coordination between federal and provincial governments. Many reported high energy costs, rising wages, and expensive local raw materials. Delays in tax refunds and lengthy dispute resolutions also continue to affect investor confidence.
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Investors recommended strengthening Pakistan’s digital, regulatory, and human resources frameworks. Sectors like IT, renewable energy, agriculture, pharmaceuticals, and exports were seen as most promising. OICCI stressed consistent reforms, better policies, and strong enforcement as essential to convert positive perceptions into long-term investments.