The Overseas Investors Chamber of Commerce and Industry (OICCI) has urged Pakistan to build on recent economic stabilization gains.
The chamber called for stronger private investment, higher exports, and improved energy security. It also stressed the need for structural reforms across the economy.
OICCI shared these recommendations during a meeting with a visiting International Monetary Fund (IMF) delegation.
The delegation included IMF Advisor Iva Petrova and Resident Representative Mahir Binici. They met senior OICCI officials and representatives of multinational companies.
The discussion focused on Pakistan’s economic conditions and the challenges facing investors. OICCI highlighted several areas that require policy attention.
The chamber pointed to a decline in foreign direct investment despite recent economic improvements. It said net FDI dropped by around 32 percent to $1.7 billion in FY2026.
OICCI called for reducing regulatory and compliance burdens on businesses. It also sought stronger protections for investors operating in Pakistan.
The chamber further highlighted coordination issues between federal and provincial authorities. It said clearer coordination could create a more predictable business environment.
OICCI also emphasized the role of domestic businesses in supporting investment. It encouraged local companies to reinvest in Pakistan.
The chamber said foreign investors often consider the confidence shown by domestic businesses. Greater local investment could therefore provide a positive signal to international investors.
Energy security was another major concern raised during the meeting. OICCI discussed the impact of higher oil prices linked to the Middle East conflict.
The chamber called for immediate measures to conserve energy. It also proposed a medium-term plan to improve energy self-sufficiency.
OICCI recommended a comprehensive energy security strategy covering electricity, gas, and petroleum. It highlighted several challenges affecting the sector.
These challenges include high energy costs compared with regional markets and rising circular debt. The chamber also stressed the need for investment in the refining sector.
It identified regional energy cooperation as another potential opportunity for Pakistan. Such cooperation could support energy availability and economic activity.
The chamber also discussed Pakistan’s external sector and foreign exchange requirements. OICCI said sustainable economic growth requires stronger foreign exchange earnings.
It called for improving competitiveness and productivity across different sectors. The chamber also urged greater support for export-oriented industries.
OICCI recommended deeper trade and investment ties with major international markets. It also supported increased regional trade where commercial conditions allow.
State-owned enterprises were another area highlighted by the chamber. OICCI called for faster reforms and credible privatization where continued state ownership lacks a clear policy purpose.
The chamber also recommended separating the state’s different economic roles. These include policymaking, regulation, facilitation, and commercial operations.
According to OICCI, clearer separation could create more space for private investment. It could also encourage greater competition within the economy.
Tax reform was another key issue raised during the meeting. OICCI called for expanding taxation to sectors that remain relatively under-taxed.
These sectors include agriculture, real estate, SMEs, and retail. The chamber opposed repeatedly increasing the tax burden on documented businesses.
The meeting provided an opportunity for OICCI and IMF representatives to discuss Pakistan’s economic priorities. The chamber emphasized the need to turn stabilization gains into sustainable growth.
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It identified investment, exports, energy security, and structural reforms as key priorities. OICCI also stressed the importance of creating conditions that support long-term private sector participation.
