Mohsin Naqvi vows business-friendly reforms, urges repatriation of capital

KARACHI, (UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News - 14th Apr, 2026) Federal Minister for Interior and Narcotics Control Syed Mohsin Raza Naqvi on Tuesday said the government would make the Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) as business-friendly as possible, while moving to wrap up legacy issues that have long affected the business climate.

Addressing members of the Federation of Pakistan Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FPCCI) during his visit to its head office as chief guest, the minister said the country stood at a critical juncture where all stakeholders must work collectively for economic revival.

He acknowledged a degree of mistrust between the business community and the government, stressing that bridging this gap was essential. “We are all discussing how to steer the country forward, and every available opportunity must be utilised,” he remarked.

Mohsin Naqvi said large amounts of capital had moved abroad over the past few years. He urged business leaders to demonstrate goodwill by bringing back a portion of their overseas assets ahead of the upcoming budget.

“If even 20 to 30 per cent of the funds held abroad are repatriated, the economic situation would improve significantly,” he said, adding that Pakistan offered competitive returns compared to global markets.

The minister maintained that improving the business environment remained a top priority, but emphasised that reciprocal cooperation from the business community was equally important. He said outdated systems would have to be dismantled, assuring that concrete steps would be taken in this regard.

Referring to enforcement measures, Mohsin Naqvi said the FIA had identified several major groups involved in suspicious financial transactions and had been directed to proceed against them without discrimination.

He also revealed that a proposal was being finalised to facilitate genuine businessmen facing visa issues, particularly for countries including China, the United States, the United Kingdom and parts of Europe.

The plan envisaged the issuance of a special passport for verified businesspersons, containing complete financial and tax credentials to ease visa processing.

Highlighting investment prospects, the Minister pointed to emerging opportunities in Islamabad and Balochistan, inviting the business community to capitalise on them.

Guest of honour and former caretaker federal minister for commerce, Gohar Ejaz, said Pakistan was currently playing a significant role on the global stage, which had once seemed aspirational. He also shared concerns of the business community.

Director General FIA Dr Usman Anwar said two key forces shaped the country’s trajectory, those contributing to economic growth and those working to curb illegal activities. He noted that, beyond immigration, the FIA served as a critical pillar in strengthening the state, adding that reforms were underway in line with the minister’s vision.

In his welcome address, FPCCI President Atif Ikram Sheikh said the law and order situation had improved, while calling for further reduction in bureaucratic hurdles to facilitate businesses. He highlighted infrastructure challenges in Sindh, noting that efforts were in progress to address them, and described the Roshan Digital Account as a highly beneficial initiative appreciated by the business community.

He expressed hope that under Mohsin Naqvi’s leadership, further progress would be made towards a secure and business-friendly environment.

At the conclusion of the event, FPCCI leadership, including Atif Ikram Sheikh and Gohar Ejaz, along with other members, assured the Interior Minister of their full cooperation in supporting government efforts for economic stability and growth.