Federal Minister for Investment Qaiser Ahmed Sheikh has revealed that more than $50 billion has been transferred from Pakistan to foreign destinations, highlighting deep concerns over the country’s struggling investment environment.

Speaking during a media briefing, the minister acknowledged that Pakistan has witnessed massive capital outflows as investors increasingly move their wealth abroad in search of stability, lower taxes, and easier business conditions.

He said Dubai has emerged as one of the primary destinations for Pakistani capital due to its zero-tax regime and business-friendly policies, which continue to attract investors frustrated by high taxation and economic uncertainty at home.

According to the minister, a portion of these funds was shifted through informal channels such as hawala and hundi networks, reflecting a lack of confidence in the domestic financial system. However, he noted that some investors are now showing interest in bringing money back, provided the investment climate improves.

The minister explained that Pakistan’s ongoing program with the International Monetary Fund limits the government’s ability to introduce large-scale incentive schemes aimed at repatriating overseas assets.

He added that authorities are instead focusing on structural reforms designed to restore investor confidence, simplify regulations, and create a more predictable economic environment capable of attracting both local and foreign investment.

The disclosure comes at a time when policymakers are struggling to revive economic growth, stabilize external accounts, and prevent further capital flight amid persistent fiscal and taxation pressures.