ISLAMABAD: Federal Minister for the Board of Investment Qaiser Ahmed Sheikh has called for consistent economic policies, predictable regulations and closer cooperation with the private sector to attract investment and support sustainable growth in Pakistan.
Addressing CEO Summit Islamabad 2026 on October 22, the minister said investment was essential for creating jobs, introducing technology, raising productivity and expanding industrial capacity.
The summit, organised by CEO Club Pakistan, brought together business leaders, diplomats and other participants to discuss economic challenges and opportunities.
Investors need predictable policies
Qaiser Ahmed Sheikh said businesses require clear regulations, timely decisions and a stable policy environment before committing capital to long-term projects.
He stressed that improving the investment climate required the government to address administrative barriers and strengthen coordination among relevant departments.
The Board of Investment, he said, was working to facilitate investors and make it easier for businesses to establish and expand operations in Pakistan.
The minister also emphasised that attracting new investors should not come at the expense of addressing the concerns of companies already operating in the country.
Sectors with investment potential
The minister identified several sectors with opportunities for domestic and foreign investment, including information technology, agriculture and agro-processing, mining and minerals, energy, manufacturing, infrastructure and tourism.
He said Pakistan needed to translate its economic potential into productive investment, stronger businesses, higher exports and additional employment.
Referring to China’s economic development, the minister highlighted the role of sustained investment, industrial expansion and long-term economic planning.
Role of businesses and overseas Pakistanis
Qaiser Ahmed Sheikh said sustainable economic growth could not be achieved by government action alone.
He described the private sector as an important partner in identifying commercial opportunities, addressing operational challenges and developing effective economic policies.
Regular dialogue between policymakers and business leaders was necessary to improve the business environment, he added.
The minister also highlighted the potential contribution of overseas Pakistanis through direct investment, commercial partnerships, technology transfer and access to international markets.
He said closer engagement with the Pakistani diaspora could help connect domestic companies with global business networks.
The minister called for continued cooperation between government and industry to turn investment opportunities into economic growth and employment.