Special Investment Facilitation Council

The Special Investment Facilitation Council (SIFC) stands as a council initiated under the leadership of Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif. Its primary objective is to entice foreign investments and stimulate the nation's economic growth. This council boasts a membership that includes all Provincial Chief Ministers and the Army Chief. Their immediate mission centers on elevating the Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) in Pakistan to the noteworthy sum of $5 billion.

Background
The establishment of the SIFC was a direct response to the pressing requirement for economic revitalization, specifically addressing the obstacles posed by bureaucratic red tape and intricate regulations that act as deterrents to foreign direct investment (FDI). With the objective of facilitating smoother collaboration with Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) nations, the SIFC strives to open up investment prospects spanning various sectors, including agriculture and information technology.

Role and Function
The SIFC operates as a paramount decision-making platform aimed at spearheading essential structural reforms within the economy. In its initial phases, the forum will concentrate on harnessing the potential of pivotal sectors like information technology, agriculture, energy, mineral resources, mining, and defense production. A primary objective of the SIFC continues to be the attraction of investments from friendly nations.

Performance
In 2024, the National Accounts Committee (NAC) reported that Pakistan's investment ratio has fallen to its lowest point in 50 years. Despite the efforts of the Special Investment Facilitation Council (SIFC), there has not been a notable increase in foreign or domestic investment.