SECP approves reforms to boost Pakistan’s business score
KARACHI: The Securities and Exchange Commission of Pakistan (SECP) has approved a series of regulatory reforms aimed at improving Pakistan’s performance in the World Bank Group’s Business Ready (B-READY) assessment.
Pakistan ranked 17th out of 101 economies in the Business Entry category of the B-READY 2025 Report, securing a score of 86.64 points. The newly approved reforms are designed to address remaining regulatory gaps and align Pakistan’s business environment more closely with international standards.
Under the reforms, SECP will expand the automated exchange of updated company information with the Federal Board of Revenue (FBR) through application programming interfaces (APIs). The initiative will be implemented in coordination with the Board of Investment and is expected to reduce duplicate compliance requirements for businesses.
The regulator will also publish information about environmental approvals and operating permits on its website once the relevant authorities provide the required data. This will provide businesses with a centralized online source for important regulatory requirements.
In addition, SECP plans to make information about publicly funded programmes for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) and women entrepreneurs available through its digital platforms.
Another key reform involves greater transparency around gender participation in the corporate sector. SECP will publish gender-related data on newly incorporated companies, covering women shareholders, directors, chief executives and ultimate beneficial owners.
SECP said the reforms are focused on areas where Pakistan can improve its B-READY performance and strengthen its position in future international business rankings.
The measures are expected to improve regulatory transparency, reduce compliance burdens and make it easier for businesses and entrepreneurs to access important government information.
