Pakistan’s business sentiment has improved sharply, according to the latest survey by the Overseas Investors Chamber of Commerce and Industry. The Business Confidence Index moved up by 11 points to reach +22 percent, reflecting growing optimism across key sectors of the economy.
The survey includes companies that represent a large share of Pakistan’s economic output. The services sector recorded the strongest improvement, reaching its highest confidence level in several years. Retail businesses also reported better expectations, while manufacturing showed gradual recovery despite cost pressures.
A key trend in the survey is the rising use of artificial intelligence tools. Many companies have started integrating AI into operations to improve efficiency, reduce costs, and support decision making. Business leaders believe technology adoption will play an important role in staying competitive both locally and internationally.
However, firms continue to highlight challenges such as high taxes, inflation, exchange rate instability, and policy uncertainty. Industry experts say that maintaining stable economic policies will be critical to sustaining this positive momentum.
Below is a summary of the main survey statistics:
| Indicator | Latest Figure | Change |
|---|---|---|
| Business Confidence Index | +22% | Up 11 percentage points |
| Economic Coverage of Surveyed Firms | ~80% of GDP | — |
| Services Sector Confidence | Highest in recent years | Improved |
| Retail Sector Outlook | Positive | Improved |
| Manufacturing Sentiment | Slight Recovery | Marginal Increase |
Economists note that improved business confidence often leads to higher investment, job creation, and expansion plans, supporting broader economic recovery.