SECP Unveils Regulatory Reforms to Improve Pakistan’s Business Readiness
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 has already recorded a strong performance in the Business Entry category of the B-READY 2025 Report, securing 17th position among 101 economies with a score of 86.64. The newly approved measures are intended to address remaining regulatory gaps and bring Pakistan’s business environment closer to international best practices.
Under the reforms, automated sharing of updated company information with the Federal Board of Revenue (FBR) through application programming interfaces (APIs) will be expanded. The initiative will be pursued in coordination with the Board of Investment and is expected to simplify compliance requirements, improve information sharing and reduce duplication for businesses.
The SECP has also approved measures to provide businesses with easier access to information on environmental approvals and operating permits through its website. Once the relevant information is compiled by the concerned authorities, it will be made available on the SECP’s digital platform, creating a centralized source for businesses seeking guidance on regulatory requirements.
In another step, information on publicly funded programmes supporting small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) and women entrepreneurs will be made accessible through SECP’s digital platforms. The move is aimed at increasing awareness of available government support and making it easier for businesses and entrepreneurs to benefit from these programmes.
The Commission has further decided to publish gender-related statistics on newly incorporated companies. The dataset will cover women shareholders, directors, chief executives and ultimate beneficial owners, providing greater visibility into women’s participation in corporate ownership and leadership.
According to the SECP, the reforms are focused on areas where Pakistan can secure additional points under the B-READY framework. The measures are expected to strengthen regulatory transparency, improve digital coordination among government institutions and support further progress in Pakistan’s international business-environment rankings.
