Staff Report
LAHORE: The Overseas Business Forum UK (OBF) has proposed the establishment of a “One-Window Operation” in Islamabad to boost foreign investment in Pakistan. The proposal was presented by OBF Chairman Muhammad Farooq Khan, accompanied by an eight-member delegation, during a meeting with Punjab Governor Sardar Saleem Haider Khan.
The delegation apprised the Governor of the problems faced by overseas Pakistanis, stating that Pakistani expatriate entrepreneurs are eager to invest in Pakistan but face significant difficulties due to complex and cumbersome government procedures.
Speaking to the media, the forum’s chairman said that during the meeting, Pakistani-origin businessmen based in the UK expressed special interest in shrimp farming, hosiery, linen, sports and fitness products, and leather goods exports. However, investors pointed out that there is no integrated and centralized facility for investment in Pakistan, due to which many projects fail to materialize.
According to the OBF, the proposed “One-Window Operation” would facilitate company registration, opening of bank accounts, NTN registration, provision of offices and warehouses, one-time import of machinery, liaison with government-approved gold suppliers, escrow services for investors, and a fast-track dispute resolution system for business-related conflicts.
The forum stated that the purpose of this initiative is to strengthen economic ties between the British and Pakistani business communities. In this regard, OBF representatives will visit Pakistan from August 3 to August 17, 2025, and hold meetings with leaders from both the government and private sectors. The forum further added that details and outcomes of the Pakistan visit will be presented at a conference scheduled in the UK on September 10, 2025.
The Punjab Governor assured the delegation that their proposals would be considered, adding that overseas Pakistanis are a valuable national asset and an important source of foreign exchange.
