The government is trying its best to woo foreign investors as tremendous opportunities are available in business, trade and industrial sectors. The stock market of the country is robust and various international organizations have labeled Pakistan as emerging market. The Pakistani stock market has been showing one of the best performance in South Asia and even better than China. The security situation has been improved and there is comfortable environment for foreign investors. A survey conducted by the Overseas Investors Chambers of Commerce and Industry has also indicated that the security environment in the country has reached a comfort level, especially in Karachi, Lahore and Islamabad. The survey says that major security risks and threats have been removed and street crime is also curtailed. At least 90 percent respondents believe in sharp drop of threats as compared to three years ago. More than 97 percent see drop in security threats to general businesses and employees. At least 87 percent individuals feel more secure and comfortable at the places of their work than three years ago.
Finance Minister Ishaq, who is driving force in the economic development of the country, has also invited the overseas Pakistanis to take advantage of tremendous business and trade opportunities in the country. According to him, the government has achieved an economic turnaround during the last three years and conducive environment has been established to attract foreign investment. The country has already achieved macroeconomic stability and opportunities are open in small and medium enterprises where all possible facilities are available for the investors.
As a matter of fact, the role of the private sector to establish business to business contacts is indispensable to start joint ventures and ensure transfer of technology into the country. Pakistan has a vibrant economy and the time is right to invest in it. There is great responsibility on the shoulders of the government to encourage private sector of the country to lead the investment sector. The government cannot do everything all alone and help of the private sector is necessary to improve the investment not only from within the country but also from abroad. It is very important to note that banks still perform less than their potentials in the country. There is a need to change rules and tax laws to allow the banking sector to play an important role in enhancement of business, trade and investment. Pakistan lacks banking connections with various countries, creating the issue of money transfers for the investors. The local banks should enhance their operations with partner countries to ensure smooth transfer of money into Pakistan.
