Islamabad: In a significant move to streamline the security printing sector, the Competition Commission of Pakistan (CCP) has sanctioned the merger of the National Security Printing Company (Private) Limited into the Pakistan Security Printing Corporation (Private) Limited. This merger is part of a broader strategy to consolidate operations and enhance the efficiency of state-owned enterprises involved in high-security printing operations.

According to Competition Commission of Pakistan announcement issued on 07 October 2024, the transaction involves the acquisition of 100 percent equity shares of the National Security Printing Company by the Pakistan Security Printing Corporation, which is a fully owned subsidiary of the State Bank of Pakistan (SBP). The former specializes in producing critical security documents including passports and government stamps, while the latter is responsible for printing the nation’s currency and prize bonds.

The merger aims to create operational synergies by eliminating redundant processes and pooling resources, thereby improving service delivery within the sector. The consolidation ensures that both the printing of vital security documents and currency remain under the strict oversight of the Federal Government and the SBP, with no expected shift in market dynamics due to the transaction.

The finalization of the deal awaits the approval of the Draft Share Purchase Agreement (DSPA) by the Finance Division, with financial terms still under negotiation. This strategic realignment is poised to bolster the stability and efficiency of Pakistan’s security printing services, maintaining critical operations under governmental control.