Business Confidence Rebounds as Finance Minister Pledges Continued Reforms

Rising Confidence Reflects Trust in Govt’s Economic Direction: OICCI

By DTD- On May 22, 2025

ISLAMABAD — Federal Minister for Finance and Revenue, Senator Muhammad Aurangzeb, met on Thursday with a delegation from the Overseas Investors Chamber of Commerce and Industry (OICCI), led by President Yousaf Hussain, to review the latest results of the OICCI’s Business Confidence Index (BCI) Survey – Wave 27.

The survey, conducted nationwide in March and April 2025, revealed a significant 16-point surge in business confidence. The index rose from -5% in the previous wave (October–November 2024) to +11%, reflecting a marked improvement across key sectors. The Manufacturing sector led the recovery, jumping from -3% to +15%, followed by Retail and Wholesale, which moved from -18% to +2%. The Services sector also showed a rise from +2% to +10%.

The improvement was largely attributed to growing macroeconomic stability, reduced inflation, and positive expectations for future business conditions.

Welcoming the results, Senator Aurangzeb said the upward trend reflects the success of ongoing economic reforms and the government’s commitment to creating a stable, investor-friendly environment. “The government is determined to sustain this positive momentum through policy consistency, transparency, and proactive engagement with stakeholders,” he stated.

OICCI President Yousaf Hussain described the improvement as a reflection of increasing trust in the government’s economic direction. He highlighted that the steady rise in confidence over the past two years showcases the resilience of Pakistan’s business community.

The Finance Minister reaffirmed that reforms to support private sector growth, ensure macroeconomic resilience, and attract foreign investment will remain a top priority. The government, he said, will maintain close coordination with industry stakeholders, including OICCI, to further strengthen investor confidence and drive sustainable economic growth.