Federal Minister for Investment Qaiser Ahmed Sheikh reflected on Pakistan’s recent economic growth and shared plans for developing the tourism sector. He shared that under the new policy, citizens from 192 countries can apply for visas online, while travellers from 120 countries are approved for visa-on-arrival. These measures will promote easy travel and boost the country’s tourism sector.
The federal minister announced this policy while speaking at the Sustainable Tourism Forum and Expo, which was jointly organised by the Federation of Pakistan Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FPCCI) and the Islamic Chamber of Commerce at a local hotel in Karachi. He shared that Pakistan’s stock market is now globally ranked among the best-performing markets. With industrial investments gradually on the rise, additional measures are required to strengthen the tourism sector further.
FPCCI President Atif Ikram Sheikh highlighted the importance of tourism, which contributes 10 percent to the global economy, while also improving the country’s trade growth, creating job opportunities, and enhancing GDP (Gross Domestic Product). He also mentioned the rich culture and historical background of the country, and praised its scenic beauty.
FPCCI Senior Vice President Saqib Fayyaz Magoon noted the growth of Pakistan’s tourism sector, which still needs improvement to reach its full potential. Secretary General of the Islamic Chamber of Commerce Sheikh Yousuf Hassan Khalawi credited tourism as an element of a stronger economy, hinting that sustainable tourism will be a key factor in the country’s successful future.
