Qaiser Ahmed Sheikh Calls for Turning Economic Knowledge into Practical Solutions -

Federal Minister for Board of Investment Qaiser Ahmed Sheikh has called for greater efforts to translate knowledge, research and policy ideas into practical solutions for Pakistan’s economic challenges.

Addressing the concluding ceremony of the PUAN Economic Policy Challenge 2026 in Islamabad, the minister said knowledge gains real value when applied to real-world problems. Drawing on his experience as former president of the Karachi Chamber of Commerce and Industry, he stressed that accurate assessment of economic and business challenges was essential for developing effective policy responses.

The minister highlighted the role of the Board of Investment in improving Pakistan’s business environment through regulatory reforms. He said efforts were underway to simplify procedures, reduce unnecessary regulatory requirements and address institutional bottlenecks. The Business Facilitation Centre in Islamabad, which brings various government departments under one roof, was cited as an initiative aimed at providing coordinated support to businesses and investors.

He also highlighted Special Economic Zones as an important tool for promoting industrialisation, investment and exports. He called for greater focus on value-added exports, technology transfer, employment generation and productivity to ensure investment contributes to sustainable economic growth.

Qaiser Ahmed Sheikh said the United States remains Pakistan’s largest export market, with bilateral trade standing at around $10 billion. He stressed the potential for greater cooperation in trade, investment, technology, entrepreneurship, education and skills development, while highlighting the role of Pakistani-American professionals and alumni networks in strengthening economic ties.

The minister also pointed to economic reforms undertaken over the past two years, particularly those pursued in cooperation with the International Monetary Fund, as efforts to strengthen economic stability. He said Pakistan’s foreign exchange reserves had reached around $18 billion, while acknowledging the impact of global conflicts and geopolitical tensions on trade and investment.

The event was organised by the U.S. Embassy, United States Educational Foundation in Pakistan, Pakistan-U.S. Alumni Network and Accountability Lab Pakistan. U.S. Chargé d’Affaires Andy Halus also addressed the gathering.

The ceremony concluded with awards for outstanding participants and winning teams. The minister congratulated the participants and urged them to use their knowledge, professional experience and international exposure to contribute to policymaking and Pakistan’s economic development. – ERMD

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