LOS ANGELES: Pakistan is undergoing a significant transformation in its business and investment landscape, bolstered by recent institutional reforms and investor-friendly policies under the Special Investment Facilitation Council (SIFC).
This was the central message delivered at a high-profile Business Roundtable chaired by Ambassador Rizwan Saeed Sheikh, hosted by the Consulate General of Pakistan in Los Angeles.
The roundtable brought together American entrepreneurs, investors, and business executives for an in-depth dialogue on trade and investment opportunities in Pakistan.
Organized by Consul General Mr. Asim Ali Khan and Trade and Investment Counselor Quratulain Fatima, the event focused on enhancing Pak–U.S. investment cooperation, especially in strategic and high-growth sectors.
In his keynote address, Ambassador Sheikh highlighted the upward trajectory of Pakistan’s economy, crediting recent policy initiatives with creating a business-friendly environment. He emphasized the country’s efforts to attract foreign direct investment (FDI) through improved regulatory frameworks, fiscal incentives, and strategic infrastructure development.
“Pakistan’s expanding industrial base, youthful workforce, and unmatched market access create an ideal landscape for international investors,” Ambassador Sheikh noted. “The U.S. business community is well-positioned to benefit from this transformation.”
The event spotlighted key incentives under the SIFC framework, including a 10-year tax holiday for investors in Special Economic Zones (SEZs), duty-free import of capital goods, 100% tax credit for IT exports, and streamlined investor visa processes. These reforms are part of a broader strategy to enhance ease of doing business and position Pakistan as a competitive investment hub.
Consul General Asim Ali Khan reiterated the Consulate’s commitment to facilitating U.S.–Pakistan business linkages, particularly in California and the western United States. He noted rising demand in Pakistan for sustainable infrastructure, technology solutions, and agricultural innovation—areas where U.S. expertise can play a transformative role.
Ambassador Sheikh also briefed participants on the approval of 28 strategic projects for 2025, the launch of Pakistan’s Sovereign Wealth Fund, and new opportunities for co-investment in sectors ranging from logistics and e-commerce to IT and creative industries.
Significantly, the roundtable also explored prospects for collaboration in entertainment and digital media. Ambassador Sheikh invited U.S. studios and streaming platforms to explore Pakistan as a dynamic partner in content creation, cultural exchange, and production. He emphasized the role of Pakistan’s media and entertainment industry in building soft power and strengthening cross-cultural ties.
In his closing remarks, Ambassador Sheikh urged American stakeholders to view Pakistan as a reliable partner in building resilient, future-ready global supply chains. He reaffirmed the full support of the Embassy and Consulates in facilitating regulatory navigation, market entry, and project-level matchmaking.
The Business Roundtable reflects Pakistan’s proactive diplomatic outreach under its “Rising Pakistan” narrative, signaling a renewed push to deepen economic diplomacy and energize private-sector partnerships with the United States.
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