Pakistan Proposes New Court to Attract Investment

Pakistan’s superior judiciary proposed establishing an International Commercial Court of Pakistan (ICCP) through a new constitutional amendment. The Law and Justice Commission of Pakistan, chaired by Chief Justice Yahya Afridi, recommended inserting Article 212A into the Constitution to create this independent federal superior court.

The proposed ICCP aims to quickly resolve international commercial disputes, enforce arbitral awards, and create a more predictable legal environment to encourage foreign investment. Officials believe a dedicated commercial court will position Pakistan as a more reliable partner for international trade.

The commission also approved expanding the jurisdiction of the Banking Mohtasib to include customers of microfinance banks, offering a grievance mechanism for millions more consumers. Both proposals have been sent to the federal government for legislative action as part of an effort to modernize Pakistan’s justice system and support economic growth.