Pakistan is steadily moving toward a more modern and transparent regulatory system, and recent reforms are making it easier than ever to start and run a business. At the center of this transformation is the Securities and Exchange Commission of Pakistan (SECP), which has taken major steps to digitize processes, improve oversight, and align local regulations with international standards.
In recognition of these efforts, SECP was declared the country’s “Reforms Champion” in December 2025 under the Prime Minister’s National Regulatory Reforms program. The title reflects SECP’s growing role in strengthening corporate governance and pushing forward technology-driven solutions.
One of SECP’s standout initiatives is eZfile, a digital one-stop platform that allows businesses to complete company registration through a single system. The platform now connects multiple government departments, including the Federal Board of Revenue, NADRA, EOBI, and provincial labor and excise authorities. This integration enables real-time identity and tax verification, issuance of unified digital certificates, and significantly faster registration timelines.
The system’s direct linkage with banks has further simplified the startup process. New companies can now open corporate bank accounts more quickly, reducing delays and helping businesses begin operations without unnecessary hurdles.
SECP has also taken strong steps to improve financial transparency. During 2024–25, it introduced the Ultimate Beneficial Owner (UBO) Registry, developed in line with global standards set by the OECD and FATF. The registry helps authorities identify the real individuals behind corporate entities and prevents the misuse of company structures for money laundering or other illegal purposes.
Beyond technology, SECP has strengthened its regulatory role through a risk-based supervision model, nationwide capacity-building programs, and close collaboration with organizations such as the Financial Monitoring Unit and international partners, including the IMF. Corporate governance and disclosure requirements for listed companies have been more strictly enforced to ensure accountability and investor protection.
These reforms are already showing strong results. Pakistan ranked 6th among 50 economies in the World Bank’s 2024 Business Ready report for ease of business entry and topped a World Bank–IFC survey on digital government-to-business services. Since 2020, company registrations have grown by over 50 percent, with more than 35,000 new companies registered in the 2024–25 period alone.
According to officials, these developments have improved Pakistan’s international image, increased regulatory clarity, and created a more efficient and investor-friendly business environment. With digital platforms like eZfile leading the way, Pakistan is taking meaningful steps toward sustainable economic growth and stronger investor confidence.