Pakistan’s corporate sector is showing encouraging momentum, with the Securities and Exchange Commission of Pakistan (SECP) registering 21,542 new companies during the first half of fiscal year 2025–26 (July–December). The figures point to a growing confidence among entrepreneurs and investors, supported by regulatory reforms and digital transformation.
According to SECP data, the upward trend has been building over the past few years. During the full fiscal year 2024–25, 35,087 companies were registered, a notable increase compared to 27,542 registrations in FY 2023–24. This steady rise reflects the impact of SECP’s efforts to modernize processes, reduce bureaucratic hurdles, and make it easier to start and formalize a business in Pakistan.
One of the most significant drivers behind this growth has been the commission’s push toward digitalization. Nearly all company registrations—99.9 percent—are now completed online through SECP’s eZfile system. The platform is fully integrated with key government institutions, including the Federal Board of Revenue (FBR), Employees’ Old-Age Benefits Institution (EOBI), and relevant provincial departments. Through the One Window system, businesses receive registration certificates automatically, saving both time and administrative costs.
Pakistan’s progress has also gained international recognition. In the World Bank’s Business Ready 2024 report, the country ranked sixth globally on the start-up indicator, highlighting improvements in ease of entry for new businesses. Additionally, an International Finance Corporation (IFC) survey ranked SECP first among 65 federal regulators for digital services and IT readiness, reinforcing its reputation as a forward-looking regulator.
Beyond ease of registration, SECP has placed strong emphasis on improving corporate governance and regulatory oversight. The commission has enforced International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS), strengthened anti-money laundering and counter-terror financing frameworks, and launched the Corporate Ultimate Beneficial Owner Registry. Risk-based supervision practices aligned with Financial Action Task Force (FATF) standards have also been introduced to ensure transparency and accountability across the corporate landscape.
Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif has publicly acknowledged these efforts, describing SECP as a “Reforms Champion” and commending its role in improving Pakistan’s business climate.
Looking ahead, SECP has reaffirmed its commitment to technology-driven reforms aimed at further simplifying business processes, enhancing transparency, and supporting sustainable economic growth. If the current pace continues, Pakistan’s corporate sector may well be on track for another record-breaking year—signaling a more dynamic and inclusive business environment for the future.