March 24, 2025 – The Sustainable Banking and Finance Network (SBFN) is proud to welcome the Securities and Exchange Commission of Pakistan (SECP) as its newest member. This partnership underscores our shared commitment to advancing sustainable finance and strengthening the resilience of the financial system in response to environmental, social, and governance (ESG) challenges.
The SECP, established in 1999, serves as the primary regulator of the country’s capital markets, corporate sector, insurance, and non-banking financial companies.
Recent initiatives by the SECP to promote sustainable finance include the issuance of Green Bonds Guidelines in 2021, facilitating the corporate sector in raising funds for environmentally beneficial projects. Additionally, in 2024, the SECP issued voluntary Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) Disclosure Guidelines for Listed Companies, aiming to enhance transparency and promote responsible business practices. Most recently, in March 2025, the SECP established a Sustainable Finance Advisory Group to provide strategic guidance on key policy reforms aimed at advancing sustainability in Pakistan’s capital markets, with a focus on enhancing sustainability, climate resilience, and gender inclusivity. These efforts are part of the SECP’s broader strategy to foster a sustainable financial ecosystem that supports economic growth while addressing environmental and social challenges.
“We are delighted to welcome SECP to our network,” said Rong Zhang, Global Coordinator of SBFN. “SECP’s leadership in advancing sustainable finance and fostering ESG practices within Pakistan’s capital markets is commendable. Together, we will work toward achieving our collective vision of expanding sustainable finance in emerging markets and driving positive social and environmental outcomes in Pakistan and beyond.”
With the inclusion of SECP, SBFN now comprises 97 members across 72 countries, further extending its global influence and reaffirming its central role in promoting sustainable finance worldwide.