Qaiser Ahmed Sheikh calls for investment-led growth, policy consistency

October 23, 2026 (MLN): The government is pushing for investment-led economic growth built on policy consistency, private-sector engagement and institutional reforms, with Federal Minister for Board of Investment (BOI) Qaiser Ahmed Sheikh stressing that investment is essential for creating jobs, bringing in modern technology, raising productivity, expanding industrial capacity and boosting exports.

He argued that the country’s recent economic difficulties offer a chance to improve the business environment and reshape its future through a long-term approach, and that both domestic and foreign investment are needed to build a more resilient and competitive economy.

He pointed to China’s three decades of double-digit growth as a model, particularly in promoting investment, expanding productive capacity and keeping a long-term focus on transformation.

He named information technology, agriculture and agro-processing, mining and minerals, energy, manufacturing, infrastructure and tourism as sectors with substantial investment potential.

He added that investors need policy consistency, clear regulations, timely decisions and a predictable business environment before making long-term commitments, and that the BOI is committed to facilitating investors, removing unnecessary hurdles and improving coordination among government departments.

The government is also taking steps to make it easier to set up, run and expand businesses, while addressing the concerns of existing investors.

Qaiser Ahmed Sheikh delivered the keynote address at CEO Summit Islamabad 2026, themed Growth in Testing Times: Reshaping the Future, organised by CEO Club Pakistan, according to a press release issued.

The summit brought together business leaders, chief executive officers, diplomats and other participants to discuss economic challenges, emerging opportunities and strategies for sustainable growth, and the minister thanked CEO Club Pakistan President and Founder Ijaz Nisar for the invitation.

He maintained that growth cannot come from the government alone, calling the private sector a central partner whose practical experience of market conditions and operational challenges makes regular engagement with policymakers essential.

He noted Pakistan’s strengths in a talented young population, a large domestic market, abundant natural resources and a strategic location, and called for a concerted national effort to encourage entrepreneurship, innovation and competitiveness.

He also highlighted the role of overseas Pakistanis beyond remittances, through direct investment, business partnerships, technology transfer and access to international markets.

Concluding his address, he voiced confidence that stronger public-private cooperation, consistent policies and a sustained focus on investment will help Pakistan build a more resilient, productive and competitive economy.

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