Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Thursday inaugurated Pakistan’s first-ever Business Facilitation Centre (BFC) in Islamabad, a one-window service aimed at making business operations smoother, faster, and more transparent for investors and entrepreneurs.
One-stop solution for investors
The centre, established by the Board of Investment (BOI), will provide all key services under one roof, from business registration, licensing, and permits to applications for special economic zones. Previously, investors had to visit multiple departments to fulfil these requirements, but the new system will drastically reduce timelines and improve efficiency.
During the launch, the Prime Minister was briefed on how the system allows applicants to track their submissions, receive timely updates on missing documents, and maintain an activity log for transparency.
PM’s vision for investor-friendly Pakistan
Shehbaz Sharif emphasised that the centre must operate beyond just “brick and mortar.” He urged staff to welcome customers with professionalism, efficiency, and courtesy.
“Time demands that we satisfy our customers. If we win their trust, businesses will thrive, and Pakistan’s economy will move forward,” he remarked.
He also lauded the BOI team for recruiting young and competent professionals to run the facility, calling their role critical to Pakistan’s investment future.
Expansion plans nationwide
The Prime Minister announced that if the initiative proves successful, similar centres will be replicated across the country.
“We can make our business centres attractive and role models by providing services that meet international standards,” he said, adding that Pakistan must create a globally competitive business environment.
Officials present at the inauguration
Federal Ministers Attaullah Tarar, Shaza Fatima Khawaja, Ahad Cheema, Dr. Musadik Malik, and BOI Minister Qaiser Ahmed Sheikh attended the ceremony. Sheikh termed the project a “breakthrough in investment facilitation,” highlighting that it eliminates red tape and reduces hassle for investors.
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