The Securities and Exchange Commission of Pakistan has published an official list of 125 foreign companies that have ceased operations in the country as of January 20, 2026. The disclosure provides fresh insight into the evolving foreign investment landscape and regulatory environment in Pakistan.
According to the Securities and Exchange Commission of Pakistan, the list includes branch offices and liaison offices of international firms that have formally completed the process of winding up their business activities. These closures span major commercial hubs including Karachi, Lahore, Islamabad, and Peshawar.
The companies represented a wide range of industries, highlighting the previously diverse footprint of foreign enterprises operating in Pakistan. From services and consultancy to engineering and trade-related sectors, these firms contributed to economic activity before formally exiting the market.
The regulator clarified that the list reflects companies that have completed all legal and regulatory requirements for closure. This includes compliance with corporate laws, settlement of liabilities, and submission of relevant documentation to authorities. The formal announcement ensures transparency in corporate records and informs stakeholders about the status of foreign business entities operating within the country.
While the SECP’s statement does not detail the specific reasons behind each company’s departure, business analysts note that foreign firms typically reassess their presence in response to economic conditions, regulatory changes, global market shifts, and strategic realignments. Such exits are often part of broader corporate restructuring plans rather than isolated local developments.
The publication of the list comes at a time when Pakistan continues efforts to improve its investment climate and attract foreign direct investment. Policymakers have repeatedly emphasized regulatory reforms, digitalization of corporate processes, and investor facilitation initiatives aimed at enhancing ease of doing business.
For investors, industry observers, and policymakers, the SECP’s disclosure serves as an important data point. It provides clarity on the current status of foreign entities and offers a more transparent picture of corporate activity trends in Pakistan.
As the economic landscape evolves, market participants will closely monitor whether new foreign entrants offset these exits in the coming months. The regulator’s ongoing commitment to transparency remains central to strengthening investor confidence and ensuring an accountable corporate environment.