Pakistan continues to attract strong foreign investment across multiple high-growth sectors. Investor confidence is rising steadily. According to the Securities and Exchange Commission of Pakistan (SECP), foreign capital is flowing into energy, logistics, information technology, telecommunications, agriculture, and mining.
Over the past three years, 79 new foreign companies launched operations in Pakistan. During the same period, investors injected Rs 40.7 billion into key sectors. Moreover, 61 foreign firms completed shareholding transactions with local entities, showing deeper market integration.
Out of these transactions, 29 transfers moved to other foreign companies. Meanwhile, four deals went to foreign individual investors. In addition, 20 transactions transferred shares to local individual investors, while eight went to local corporate entities. Many of these deals followed global corporate restructuring strategies.
Currently, 1,157 foreign companies operate in Pakistan under SECP registration. In contrast, only 19 foreign firms exited the market over the last three years. In 2023, 31 companies entered while six left. Similarly, 21 companies registered in 2024 and nine exited. So far in 2025, 27 new firms have entered and only four have closed operations. These figures reflect sustained foreign investor interest in Pakistan’s economy.
Strategic Acquisitions Strengthen Pakistan’s Corporate Landscape
Several major acquisitions highlight Pakistan’s growing appeal. For instance, Saudi Arabia’s Wafi Energy acquired Shell Pakistan as part of a global portfolio reorganization. Likewise, Dubai-based PTA Global Holdings secured a majority stake in Lotte Chemical Pakistan under an international agreement.
At the same time, Switzerland’s Gunvor Group partnered with Total Parco Limited to acquire equal stakes in TotalEnergies Pakistan. Furthermore, Saudi Aramco purchased a 40 percent equity stake in Gas & Oil Pakistan Limited, also known as GO Petroleum.
In the logistics sector, DP World formed a joint venture with the National Logistics Corporation to expand freight and port operations. Meanwhile, PTCL acquired Telenor Pakistan’s operations after regional consolidation reshaped the telecom market.
The pharmaceutical industry also saw strategic changes. Pfizer transferred its Karachi manufacturing plant and related assets to Lucky Core Industries to ensure production continuity. Similarly, France’s Sanofi sold its majority stake to a local investor consortium, and the company later adopted the name Hoechst Pakistan Limited.
Energy, Technology and CPEC Phase II Drive Fresh Momentum
Pakistan’s energy sector continues to attract global players. Companies such as SOCAR and Turkish Petroleum have expanded their footprint. In addition, mining giants like Barrick Gold are exploring long-term opportunities in minerals and natural resources.
The electric vehicle market is also gaining traction. Chinese automakers BYD and Chery Automobile, along with UAE-based NWTN Motors, have entered Pakistan’s growing EV sector. Consequently, competition and innovation are increasing in the automotive industry.
Technology investment is rising as well. Global firms like Google and Samsung are expanding local operations. At the same time, infrastructure development is being supported by Abu Dhabi Ports and Portugal’s Mota-Engil.
Under China-Pakistan Economic Corridor Phase II, industrial cooperation has accelerated further. So far, businesses have signed 24 agreements worth over $1.5 billion. Additionally, memoranda of understanding exceeding $7 billion cover renewable energy, agriculture, IT, minerals, and industrial relocation.
Existing investors are also increasing commitments. For example, Mashreq Bank has launched and expanded Pakistan’s first digital bank. Likewise, Kuwait-backed Raqami Digital Bank plans to invest $100 million. Meanwhile, Nestlé is adding $60 million in new investment.
Overall, Pakistan’s foreign investment outlook remains strong. As reforms continue and partnerships deepen, economic growth momentum is expected to strengthen further.
