Security remains the leading business concern for foreign investors operating in Pakistan, according to a new survey. The Overseas Investors Chamber of Commerce and Industry released the findings on Wednesday.
The survey found that 71 percent of respondents ranked security among their top three business concerns. It was conducted in June among leading foreign investors operating across Pakistan.
Karachi And Balochistan Raise Biggest Security Concerns
According to the survey, 42 percent of respondents said Karachi’s security situation had deteriorated. Meanwhile, 81 percent in Quetta and 86 percent in the rest of Balochistan also reported worsening conditions.
Street crime remained the biggest concern for businesses across major cities. Half of the respondents reported increased street crime in Karachi, compared with 45 percent last year.
Additionally, 37 percent of respondents reported worsening street crime in Quetta. That figure stood at 24 percent in the previous survey.
The report also showed declining confidence in civilian law enforcement agencies. Positive ratings for Karachi Police and Sindh Police both fell compared with last year.
Businesses Maintain Long-Term Confidence Despite Challenges
Meanwhile, confidence in the Sindh Rangers and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Police improved. However, businesses continued expressing concerns over regional security challenges.
Around 88 percent of respondents said Middle East tensions affected their organisations. Supply chain disruptions, logistics security and employee safety emerged as key concerns.
Despite these challenges, 87 percent of surveyed companies remained comfortable holding board meetings in Pakistan. The findings reflected continued confidence in the country’s long-term economic potential.
The OICCI urged the government to strengthen policing and improve public safety. It also called for institutional reforms to support investment and sustainable economic growth.
