- SEZ reforms aim to simplify processes and attract investments.
- Land leasing policy and amendments to SEZ law approved for reforms.
- 35 SEZ surveys conducted to facilitate data-driven decisions.
ISLAMABAD: The government has introduced an 18-point action plan to improve operations and attract investments in special economic zones (SEZs), as revealed in a meeting of the approval committee of the Board of Investment (BoI) on Tuesday ) in the federal capital. News reported.
The comprehensive plan aims to resolve long-standing issues in the SEZs and upgrade infrastructure to meet international standards.
The meeting, chaired by Federal Minister for Investment and Privatization Abdul Aleem Khan, included provincial representatives, including those from Gilgit-Baltistan.
Key decisions included the approval of a new land leasing policy and amendments to the SEZ Law, reducing the notice period for meetings from 21 days to seven days. These measures should speed up decision-making processes and stimulate economic growth.
A comprehensive survey of the 35 SEZs has been finalized, enabling data-driven decisions for their management and development.
The Minister of Investment and Privatization stressed that the survey report, now digitized, is a shared resource that provincial governments and relevant departments must use to effectively resolve challenges.
The BoI Secretary and provincial representatives provided updates and shared insights on the current status of the areas. Key aspects of the plan include promoting inter-provincial collaboration, streamlining bureaucratic processes and improving infrastructure development to unlock the full potential of SEZs.
Aleem Khan said that the completion of the survey of 35 industrial zones across the country, identification and resolution of their problems is a great progress and an important achievement which would have a positive impact on the country’s economy.
He added that the modernization of SEZs was carried out in the shortest possible time and significant steps were taken to ensure better quality in this regard.
“This digital data constitutes a common asset that all stakeholders must exploit. Regular and timely approval committee meetings are essential to quickly resolve issues. The next session is already scheduled for February,” he added.
The minister highlighted the government’s focus on simplifying processes to attract investments. “We are removing unnecessary complications to create an investor-friendly environment. Encouraging diverse industries in these areas will help boost foreign exchange inflows and facilitate rapid economic development,” he said.
With these initiatives, the government aims to make SEZs the backbone of Pakistan’s industrial growth and economic stability.
Investment-friendly policies and digital innovation are expected to play a central role in transforming SEZs into hubs of economic activity.
