Pakistan’s National Assembly has passed the “Asaan Karobar Bill, 2025,” a landmark piece of legislation aimed at simplifying regulations and creating a more business-friendly environment.
The bill, backed by a majority vote, is designed to cut red tape, remove outdated rules, and encourage both local and foreign investment. It was presented by Federal Minister for Board of Investment Qaiser Ahmed Sheikh and earlier endorsed by the Standing Committee on Cabinet Secretariat on July 10.
During the debate, Pakistan People’s Party lawmaker Naveed Qamar introduced three amendments to clauses 2, 3, and 5. They were accepted, reflecting rare cross-party consensus on the reforms. The bill will now move to the Senate for approval before becoming law.
Government’s vision
Officials described the bill as a historic step in modernizing Pakistan’s regulatory system. They said businesses have long struggled with costly, time-consuming, and complex procedures.
“The Asaan Karobar Bill, 2025 seeks to create a predictable, transparent, and efficient regulatory environment,” the government said in a statement.
Key features
The bill establishes an Asaan Karobar Technical Unit (AKTU) under the Board of Investment. The AKTU will review and streamline regulations, coordinate with federal and provincial agencies, and conduct regulatory impact assessments. It will also guide the elimination of redundant rules and provide expertise for new digital reforms.
Officials said the unit will be staffed with professionals in law, economics, technology, and public administration. “It will serve as the backbone of Pakistan’s regulatory reform agenda,” one official said.
Another key measure is the creation of a Pakistan Regulatory Registry, a digital catalogue of all licenses, permits, and compliance requirements. This will give businesses a single, transparent source of information.
The legislation also mandates the launch of a National One-Window Business Portal. The portal will allow companies to complete registrations, licensing, certifications, and payments in one place. By cutting bureaucratic layers, it is expected to reduce delays and opportunities for corruption.
Policymakers said the bill could attract new investment, generate jobs, boost exports, and improve Pakistan’s position in global ease-of-doing-business rankings.
The reforms come at a time of weak industrial output and sluggish economic growth. Foreign direct investment is seen as critical to stabilizing the economy.
If implemented effectively, officials said, the measures could unlock Pakistan’s economic potential and position it as a more attractive destination for global investors.
The next step is Senate approval, which would clear the way for the bill to become law.
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