A Chinese consortium has reaffirmed its long-term commitment to Pakistan’s capital markets, following the resolution of key regulatory issues by the Securities and Exchange Commission of Pakistan (SECP). The development is expected to support increased investment and deepen financial cooperation between the two countries.
A delegation led by the China Financial Futures Exchange (CFFEX), along with representatives from the Shanghai and Shenzhen stock exchanges, met SECP Chairman Dr. Kabir Ahmed Sidhu and senior officials to discuss future collaboration and expansion plans.
During the meeting, the consortium welcomed regulatory approvals allowing it to increase its shareholding in the Central Depository Company (CDC) and the National Clearing Company of Pakistan Limited (NCCPL). It also appreciated SECP’s support in restructuring the Pakistan Stock Exchange’s (PSX) property management function, enabling the exchange to focus more on its core operations and long-term growth strategy.
Senior members of the delegation included Mr. You Hang, Chief Representative of CFFEX; Mr. Lou Fengsen, Senior Vice President of CFFEX; and Mr. Zhang Xiaofeng, Director of CFFEX. Other participants included Mr. Sung Zhenwen, Managing Director of Pak China Investment Company and PSX Director; PSX CEO Farrukh Sabzwari; PMEX Non-Executive Director Nadeem Naqvi; SECP Commissioner Muhammad Ali Farid Khawaja; Executive Director Imran Inayat Butt; and Director Muhammad Shamoun.
Mr. You Hang expressed confidence in Pakistan’s economic outlook, stating that the consortium aims to play a larger role in developing the country’s capital markets. He highlighted plans to introduce cross-border exchange-traded funds (ETFs), enhance investment flows between Pakistan and China, and strengthen market integration through a jointly established task force.
The delegation also outlined plans to introduce advanced trading and settlement systems, improve market surveillance, support new financial instruments, enhance liquidity, and expand investor education and capacity-building initiatives.
SECP Chairman Dr. Kabir Ahmed Sidhu welcomed the expansion plans and reaffirmed the regulator’s commitment to reforms aimed at improving market efficiency, attracting foreign investment, and promoting financial innovation. He noted that stronger global partnerships and technological upgrades would play a key role in the development of Pakistan’s capital markets.
The meeting concluded with both sides reiterating their commitment to expanding investment cooperation and strengthening Pakistan’s position as an emerging regional financial hub.
