The Fourth Cabinet Committee on Regulatory Reforms, chaired by Pakistan’s minister for industry and minister for Investement, approved a set of targeted reforms aimed at transforming key economic sectors and boosting Pakistan’s competitiveness globally.

Here’s what got approved and why it matters:

Reforms in Venture Capital & Startups- Pakistani startups have collectively raised USD 1+ billion since 2015, reflecting strong innovation momentum.

Reforms in the Surgical Instruments- a globally competitive sector worth USD 600+ million in exports.

Foreign Exchange Regime – modernizing the FX framework is critical for trade, investment and capital flows, especially in a volatile global environment.

Business Licensing (Khyber Pakhtunkhwa)- SMEs account for 40% of GDP and 80% of non-agricultural employment. Streamlined licensing regimes in KP are expected to immediately improve ease of doing business, reduce compliance friction, and encourage formal sector growth.

These reforms demonstrate a shift from intent to execution and prioritizes impact, competitiveness and inclusive economic growth.