OICCI survey shows improved security in Pakistan's business hubs

Pakistan’s major cities have seen a measurable improvement in security over the past year, according to the 2025 Annual Security Survey released by the Overseas Investors Chamber of Commerce and Industry (OICCI). But while foreign investors expressed optimism over urban safety, persistent challenges in areas like Balochistan continue to weigh on business confidence.

The survey, which covered June 2024 to May 2025, reflects feedback from leading foreign investors operating across Pakistan. Respondents reported notable declines in serious crimes and street crimes in business hubs such as Karachi, Lahore, and Islamabad.

Over 70% of respondents observed a significant drop in serious crimes in Karachi, Lahore, and throughout Punjab. Street crimes also saw a marked decrease in Karachi, Lahore, and Islamabad.

Two-thirds of the respondents said their employees felt safer during daily commutes, especially in these key cities.

Despite the positive shift in urban centers, the survey pointed out ongoing security issues in sensitive regions. Street crime in Quetta and Peshawar declined only moderately, and both cities remain perceived as the least secure for personal safety.

Most concerning, Balochistan saw a deterioration in serious crimes compared to the previous year. This negative trend has impacted the overall security picture, reinforcing the notion that Pakistan’s security progress remains uneven.

“The fragile security situation in regions like Balochistan continues to impact Pakistan’s global image and undermines long-term investor confidence,” the OICCI stated in its report.

Even with progress in major cities, security remains one of the top three concerns for Chief Executives operating in Pakistan. The survey stresses that continued and inclusive improvements are critical for sustaining business confidence.

“The OICCI Security Survey 2025 reflects a cautiously optimistic outlook, with clear gains in major cities like Karachi and Lahore, a positive signal for investor confidence,” said Secretary General M Abdul Aleem.

“However, sustaining and expanding these improvements across all regions is essential to maintain momentum and reassure both local and foreign stakeholders about Pakistan’s overall security trajectory,” he added.

The number of overseas business visits to Pakistan remained similar to 2024. But there was a decline in meetings held abroad, suggesting growing trust in Pakistan’s internal security.

Postponements of travel were rare and mainly attributed to geopolitical tensions, especially India-Pakistan escalations, rather than domestic threats.

OICCI reiterated its commitment to working with the government and law enforcement to build a more secure and investor-friendly environment across the country.