Islamabad: Federal Minister for Finance and Revenue, Senator Muhammad Aurangzeb, chaired a virtual meeting of the Focus Group on Incentivizing and Facilitating the Growth of Real Estate Investment Trusts (REITs). The meeting brought together stakeholders from both the public and private sectors to discuss measures aimed at strengthening the REIT framework and enhancing its role in economic activity and capital market development.

According to Press Information Department, the Finance Minister commended the active participation of stakeholders and emphasized the importance of ongoing consultation to ensure that reform efforts align with market needs and broader economic objectives. The discussions focused on refining the taxation framework, streamlining processes for REIT issuers, and enhancing the market ecosystem to boost investor participation, particularly from retail segments.

Participants noted the potential for further growth in Pakistan’s REIT market through targeted policy measures and improved coordination. Addressing procedural inefficiencies and ensuring clarity in regulatory requirements were identified as critical steps to unlocking this potential. The Finance Minister highlighted the role of REITs in promoting documentation and formalization within the real estate, construction, and development sectors.

The discussions also centered on broadening investor participation and enhancing market depth. Enhancing investor awareness and confidence in REIT instruments were seen as key factors in facilitating investor entry and sustaining market growth. Participants emphasized the need for aligning Pakistan’s REIT framework with international practices while maintaining simplicity and ease of implementation.

The Finance Minister called for a coordinated reform approach focused on actionable steps within existing frameworks, assigning specific workstreams to relevant stakeholders, including the Securities and Exchange Commission of Pakistan (SECP), REIT issuers, market participants, and the Tax Policy Office. The meeting concluded with a shared understanding on continued engagement and follow-up on identified areas, reaffirming the Government’s commitment to fostering a facilitative and transparent policy environment for investment and economic development.

The meeting was attended by key figures from the private sector and relevant government officials, including Mr. Arif Habib, Mr. Nadeem Riaz, Mr. Ali Jameel, and representatives from SECP and the Ministry of Finance.