The SECP has reported a significant rise in company registrations during February to April 2026. The increase reflects growing investor confidence in Pakistan’s corporate sector.
According to official data, the SECP registered 10,511 new companies in this period. This is a 21 percent increase compared to 8,693 companies last year.
Officials said the rise shows improving business activity across multiple sectors. The trend highlights stronger economic participation in Pakistan’s corporate landscape.
In April alone, the SECP recorded 4,082 new company registrations. This is the highest monthly figure achieved by the regulator so far.
The report also shows growing foreign participation in Pakistan’s business environment. Around 220 companies were registered with foreign ownership.
Cumulative paid-up capital reached Rs882 million. This is a sharp rise compared to Rs277 million in the same period last year.
The SECP noted that investors from more than 22 countries set up businesses in Pakistan. This reflects increasing international interest in the local market.
Foreign investment was mainly directed toward trading, services, IT, construction, and mining sectors. Chinese investors remained among the most active participants.
Alongside new registrations, the SECP also reported improved compliance levels. The corporate registry received 61,960 statutory returns during the period.
This represents a 61 percent increase compared to 38,326 returns last year. Officials said this improvement reflects stronger enforcement measures.
To support compliance, the SECP launched a nationwide awareness campaign. The campaign encourages companies to submit required statutory returns on time.
Special focus was given to Ultimate Beneficial Ownership disclosures. These measures aim to improve transparency in corporate structures.
In another development, the SECP introduced new rules for digital shareholding. Physical shares will now be replaced with book-entry systems during transactions.
This move is aimed at improving digitisation and reducing paperwork in the corporate sector. It is also expected to increase transparency.
The regulator has also signed agreements with banks and fintech platforms. These include Askari Bank and NayaPay for faster account opening services.
Additionally, the SECP plans to establish Business Facilitation Centres in major cities. These centres will operate in Islamabad, Karachi, Lahore, Sialkot, and Faisalabad.
In other news read more about SECP Data Contradicts Claims That Over 100 Companies Are Leaving Pakistan
Officials believe these steps will make business processes easier. The reforms are expected to further strengthen Pakistan’s corporate ecosystem.
