World Bank supports simpler regulations

Talks on Thursday between the Special Investment Facilitation Council (SIFC) and the World Bank focused on ongoing steps to improve Pakistan's business environment, streamline regulations and encourage private-sector activity, the Express Tribune reported. SIFC Secretary Jameel Ahmad Qureshi held the discussion with a World Bank Group team, based on a press release.

The agenda covered three initiatives: the Asaan Karobar Framework, the Regulatory Registry and the Pakistan Business Portal. Together they are intended to streamline rules, strengthen coordination among agencies, ease the compliance load and open a simpler channel between firms and the state. The framework offers a structured route to simpler business rules, while the registry is meant to make requirements clearer and easier to find, and the portal aims to give firms a more coordinated interface with state bodies.

The World Bank delegation praised SIFC's inclusive method, particularly its work with provincial governments, and agreed that coordinated action is important for improving the regulatory climate. The lender also pledged continued support for efforts to strengthen business facilitation and push forward regulatory reform.