The American Business Council of Pakistan (ABC) conducted its annual survey among 60 companies in its association to assess the current business environment in the country.
The survey findings reveal that the companies have made significant contributions during the Fiscal Year (FY) 2021-2022.
However, significant apprehensions exist about the ease of operating a business in the present and short-term future.
Concerns about Pakistan’s international perception have been raised, emphasizing the need for immediate government support and policies to facilitate the investment and expansion plans of American companies operating in Pakistan for FY 2023 and beyond.
Key findings from the annual survey include:
Contributions
The participating companies have made substantial contributions to the Pakistan economy during the FY 2021-2022. This includes the cumulative revenue of PKR 847Bn, exports worth PKR 81Bn, a capital investment of 57 Bn in the L3Y and national exchequer amounting to PKR 159 Bn.
These companies have also actively engaged in CSR activities, contributing significantly – PKR 1.6 Bn – to various social and community development initiatives. Their commitment to making a positive impact in Pakistan goes beyond business operations.
Future Investment
61% of the companies expect negative GDP growth in FY 2023, and 83% are concerned about operating business smoothly in this current short-term economic scenario.
94% of the companies, however, expect that the situation may turn around eventually and feel more optimistic about the long-term future but not the short-term. Nonetheless, 67% of the companies have plans for further investments and expansion in Pakistan in FY 2023.
Ease of Doing Business
48% of the respondents expressed concerns about a drastic decline in the ease of doing business in Pakistan. Cumbersome regulatory processes, bureaucratic hurdles, and inconsistencies may be causing obstacles that hinder business operations and growth.
International Perception and Business Climate
71% of the surveyed companies expressed concerns over Pakistan’s perception internationally. 79% felt that the overall business climate has worsened, considering the current challenges the country faces. They emphasized the importance of addressing these challenges and creating a favorable environment to attract more foreign investment.
Considering these findings, ABC needs the support of the government of Pakistan to consider the following recommendations:
- Streamline regulatory processes, reduce bureaucracy, and enhance efficiency to improve the ease of doing business.
- Facilitate a favorable business climate by addressing the concerns raised by American companies regarding Pakistan’s international perception.
“We believe that addressing these key areas identified in the survey will create a more favorable business environment in Pakistan,” said Jamshed Safdar, President of the American Business Council of Pakistan.
He further added:
“Collaborative efforts between Pakistan and American companies can lead to increased investment, job creation, and economic prosperity for Pakistan.”
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