Pakistan’s economy currently stands at a critical crossroads. After many years, long-standing traditional barriers are being dismantled, and the foundations of a modern, transparent system are being laid. In the recent past, several bold steps have been taken to align the country’s regulatory framework with international standards, and the positive outcomes of these reforms are now becoming visible. As a result, not only has it become easier to start and operate a business in Pakistan, but the country’s credibility and standing at the global level have also improved. Much of the credit for these achievements goes to the Securities and Exchange Commission of Pakistan (SECP).
In recognition of its exceptional performance, the Prime Minister awarded the SECP the title of “Reforms Champion” in December last year. This honour is not merely a ceremonial shield; rather, it is a clear acknowledgement of the Commission’s commitment to digital innovation and institutional integrity. There is little doubt that the SECP is making consistent efforts to bring Pakistan’s Companies Act in line with international requirements and best practices, thereby strengthening the overall corporate governance framework.
Transparency is indispensable for safeguarding any economy against threats such as money laundering and the financing of terrorism. In this regard, the SECP has achieved a major milestone. Companies are now required to disclose their ultimate beneficial owners so that illegal activities carried out through anonymous or shell companies can be effectively prevented. Introduced in February 2025, this system is fully aligned with the standards set by the Financial Action Task Force (FATF). This reform not only enhances financial transparency but also reinforces Pakistan’s commitment to global compliance norms.
In the past, registering a new company in Pakistan was widely perceived as a cumbersome and time-consuming process, prompting many entrepreneurs to avoid formal registration altogether. However, the SECP’s “EZ-File” platform has completely transformed this perception. It is a fully digital, one-window system that integrates services from multiple government departments, including the Federal Board of Revenue (FBR), NADRA, Social Security institutions, and Excise departments. Entrepreneurs can now complete all steps-from obtaining a National Tax Number (NTN) to full company registration-through a single platform. Automated identity verification through NADRA has further enhanced the speed, security, and reliability of the process.
Beyond numbers, the SECP’s initiatives have helped restore the confidence of domestic investors and have strengthened cooperation with international financial institutions such as the International Monetary Fund (IMF) and the World Bank.
The impact of these reforms is clearly reflected in Pakistan’s improving global standing. According to the World Bank’s Business Ready Report 2024, Pakistan has ranked sixth among the world’s 50 largest economies on the Business Entry indicator. Similarly, in the provision of digital services, the SECP has emerged as the top performer among 65 federal regulators. Statistical evidence also supports this progress: since 2020, new company registrations have increased by 51 per cent. During the fiscal year 2024-25, approximately 35,000 new companies were registered, while in just the first six months of 2025, a total of 21,542 new registrations were recorded. Today, nearly all company registrations in Pakistan are being completed through online channels.
Beyond numbers, the SECP’s initiatives have helped restore the confidence of domestic investors and have strengthened cooperation with international financial institutions such as the International Monetary Fund (IMF) and the World Bank. Through awareness sessions held across the country, hundreds of organisations are being guided to align themselves with modern regulatory and compliance requirements.
Conclusively, Pakistan is increasingly emerging as a transparent, efficient, and attractive destination for doing business. These comprehensive reforms signal a promising future, demonstrating that when institutions move in the right direction with clarity and integrity, the goal of sustainable economic stability is well within reach.
The writer is an alumnus of QAU, MPhil scholar & a freelance columnist, based in Islamabad. He can be reached at [email protected].