ISLAMABAD – The United Kingdom’s trade envoy to Pakistan, Mohammad Yasin, has called on Pakistan to maintain its current trajectory of economic reform and political stability to attract long-term foreign investment. During his three-day visit, Yasin emphasized that Pakistan is showing signs of improvement but must continue these efforts to fully regain investor confidence.
Speaking to The Express Tribune at the conclusion of his visit, Yasin noted, “Pakistan is in a far better place than it was two years ago — both politically and economically. But this progress must be sustained over time.”
Yasin’s visit focused on identifying investment opportunities and encouraging Pakistani businesses to explore prospects in the UK. He met with key stakeholders, including members of the Special Investment Facilitation Council (SIFC), to address concerns faced by British investors and to push for policy clarity.
He highlighted that bilateral trade currently stands at £4.7 billion, a figure he described as “nowhere near the potential.” Under the UK’s 2035 growth strategy, investment across eight strategic sectors is being actively sought, and Yasin urged Pakistani entrepreneurs to take advantage of these openings.
“The UK has launched a modern industrial strategy, and we’re open for business. We invite Pakistani companies to invest in Britain — and at the same time, UK companies are looking for viable investment avenues in Pakistan,” he said.
Yasin stressed that sustained political and economic reforms, aligned with the International Monetary Fund (IMF) programme, would be critical in building a business-friendly environment. “A year and a half of progress is commendable,” he said, “but that’s not enough to assure long-term investors. Policy continuity is key.”
He also pointed to Pakistan’s demographic advantage — with 65% of the population under 30 — and praised the rising number of women entrepreneurs. However, he noted that structural barriers, especially around intellectual property rights and medicine pricing, continue to challenge foreign investors.
Among the areas of cooperation, Yasin identified IT and agriculture as priority sectors for Pakistani exports. He also shared that a UK firm has already secured a £53 million contract in Pakistan’s mineral sector, and that British consultancy McKinsey is advising the government on mining regulation.
Looking ahead, he announced a forthcoming ministerial-level trade dialogue between the two countries, to be held in London, aimed at removing trade barriers and enhancing investment flows.
“UK firms are ready to invest in Pakistan,” Yasin reiterated. “But they need stability, confidence, and a regulatory environment that makes sense.”
