SECP Achieves Significant Milestones in Corporate Registry Reforms and Digital Transformation

The Securities and Exchange Commission of Pakistan (SECP) has attained remarkable progress in corporate registry enhancements and digital evolution throughout the fiscal year 2025.

SECP documented more than 35,000 company formations in fiscal year 2024-2025, marking the highest figure recorded within a single fiscal period. Notable surges were seen during January (3,442) and May (3,605). The corporate registry currently includes in excess of 258,000 firms, with nearly all formations completed via online portals. This reflects a 27% increase year-over-year when compared to FY2024.

The eZfile platform received substantial improvements, incorporating mandatory digital authentication for administrative adjustments and the implementation of cybersecurity protocols. To further simplify business operations, SECP introduced the Electronic Mortgage Register (EMR), enabling immediate access to mortgage details for financial organizations.

Moreover, SECP is actively developing same-day bank integration and crafting an AI-driven incorporation capability to accelerate the company registration process.

SECP is dedicated to encouraging a helpful regulatory landscape. Commencing March 3, 2025, all newly established companies must issue stocks in dematerialized form to decrease ownership disputes. In accordance with the World Bank’s B-Ready criteria, changes are being put in place to incorporate gender-specific data and Ultimate Beneficial Owner (UBO) authentication. Proposed revisions to the Auditors’ Regulations have also been introduced, mandating UDIN for ICMAP members and expanding the Cost Audit Regulations to encompass the automotive industry.

Pakistan was ranked 6th out of 50 economies in the World Bank’s B-Ready 2024 ‘Business Entry’ indicator, demonstrating SECP’s commitment to enhancing the business setting. A dedicated support center was created to handle licensing and corporate inquiries, alongside the delivery of over 100 educational sessions, supported by user resources and instructional clips. Extra guides on ESOS, stock splits, and capital issuance are currently under preparation.

SECP is persistently promoting innovation through its LEAP project and the SECP-XS platform, providing diverse digital services. A Corporate Registration Manual is also being finalized to standardize processes across all Company Registration Offices (CROs).