KARACHI: The Securities and Exchange Commission of Pakistan (SECP) is working on reforms to the Real Estate Investment Trust (REIT) framework to make regulated real estate investment more accessible to a wider range of investors.
SECP Chairman Dr. Kabir Ahmed Sidhu said the commission aims to bring a larger portion of Pakistan’s real estate sector into regulated REIT structures. He said the reforms could also support greater public participation in the sector.
Sidhu made the remarks during a gong ceremony at the Pakistan Stock Exchange (PSX) held to mark the listing of the Naya Nazimabad Apartment REIT. Federal Minister for Finance and Revenue Senator Muhammad Aurangzeb attended the event as chief guest. State Bank of Pakistan Governor Jameel Ahmad, government officials and representatives of capital market institutions were also present.
According to Sidhu, Pakistan’s real estate sector is valued at more than Rs7 trillion. He said REITs could help document real estate activity, strengthen transparency and provide investors with exposure to property without requiring them to purchase an entire plot, apartment or building.
The SECP is also proposing changes to regulations governing the REIT and non-banking financial sectors. The proposed measures are aimed at improving the business environment, facilitating investment and supporting further development of the REIT market.
Sidhu also highlighted broader developments in Pakistan’s capital markets. He said 13 initial public offerings had raised Rs26 billion during 2026, with companies from manufacturing, agriculture, real estate, energy and technology among those accessing the stock market.
He added that improved market access had contributed to a 36 percent increase in the number of investors. The SECP has also been working on digitalization, regulatory reforms and simpler compliance procedures.
The commission said strengthening transparency and investor protection remains part of its regulatory approach. Further development of the REIT market will depend on the implementation of proposed reforms and the response of investors and market participants.
