Finance Minister Senator Ishaq Dar chaired the third meeting of the board of approvals here which reviewed the SEZ (Special Economic Zones) Act 2012 with a view to promoting investment and business activities in the country.
The Board after thorough discussion approved amendments to Section 6 of the SEZ Act 2012 concerning functions and responsibilities of the BOA which empower it to examine and decide upon policy issues.
The BOA also reviewed Business Climate Improvement Plan of the BOI which aims at improving business environment in the country by reducing cost and processes of doing business and enhancing international competitiveness of Pakistan. The finance minister appreciated the BOI’s plan and emphasized concerted efforts for ensuring ease of doing business in the country, saying that a secure investment and business environment was the basic requirement to attract foreign investment.
There was detailed discussion among members regarding opening of SEZs in Punjab, KP and Baluchistan. The finance minister with the consensus of the house passed instructions that a committee comprising representatives of provincial and central boards of investments may consider the proposal giving it due priority.
The meeting also approved BOA membership of Nawabzada Khalid Hussain Magsi from Baluchistan who has been nominated by the Baluchistan chief minister.
