President Asif Ali Zardari has formally approved the Special Economic Zones (Amendment) Bill 2026, a legislative move designed to enhance Pakistan's investment landscape, bolster fiscal policy, and drive economic expansion. The bill received presidential assent following the advice of Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, marking the official implementation of amendments to the original Special Economic Zones Act of 2012. Prior to this final approval, the government withdrew the Special Economic Zones Amendment Ordinance 2026, as the legislation had already successfully cleared both houses of Parliament.
Key Reforms and Objectives
The revised framework focuses on revitalizing the development of Special Economic Zones (SEZs) through several strategic pillars:
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Investor-Friendly Environment: The law introduces new investment incentives to attract both domestic and foreign capital.
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Dispute Resolution: A new, expedited mechanism has been established to resolve business disputes quickly and efficiently.
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Infrastructure Commitment: For SEZs established on public land or by public entities, federal and provincial governments are now mandated to provide essential infrastructure—including electricity, gas, telecommunications, and road access—up to the designated zero point within one year of an SEZ’s notification.
Support for Private SEZs
The amended legislation also provides flexibility for privately developed zones. The Board of Investment is now authorized to grant similar government-funded infrastructure support to private SEZs on a case-by-case basis, provided they meet specific criteria established by the board.
