Houston: Federal Minister for Board of Investment, Qaiser Ahmed Sheikh, highlighted Pakistan’s investment opportunities, Special Economic Zone (SEZ) incentives, and economic reforms at a gathering in Houston, Texas, hosted by Dr. Ashraf Abbasi, President of the Pakistan American Congress (PAC). The event, attended by notable Pakistani-American community leaders and business figures, provided a platform to discuss potential business linkages between Pakistan and the United States.
According to Press Information Department, the gathering, supported by Austin-based educationist Mr. Iqbal Sheikh, included the participation of Consul General of Pakistan in Houston Aftab Chaudhary. Mr. Sheikh has long been associated with the Pakistani-American and business communities in the U.S., having served as Public Relations Officer at the Karachi Chamber of Commerce and Industry for two decades.
Federal Minister Qaiser Ahmed Sheikh emphasized that Pakistan is witnessing increased international investor interest and the government is actively improving the investment environment. He pointed to opportunities across sectors such as information technology, agriculture, textiles, automobiles, tourism, and construction. He also underscored the significance of SEZs as hubs for industrial investment and employment, offering investors streamlined processes and tax exemptions.
The minister highlighted regulatory reforms aimed at reducing compliance burdens and improving transparency. He noted the role of Pakistan’s young and skilled population in driving economic growth and invited Pakistani-American entrepreneurs to explore investment opportunities in Pakistan, emphasizing the diaspora’s potential in connecting Pakistan with global markets and technology.
Participants at the event engaged in discussions on Pakistan’s economic outlook, investment facilitation, and potential areas for Pakistan-U.S. business cooperation. The Federal Minister expressed gratitude to the organizers for facilitating dialogue with the Pakistani-American business community and reaffirmed the government’s commitment to enhancing the business environment, promoting exports, and creating investment opportunities in Pakistan.