In 2008, with a total of 28 inbound greenfield projects, the country received $3.76bn; however, despite having 33 ventures to date, investment has dropped by 85.37% for 2009, according to data from fDi Markets. This is in line with a reduced number of manufacturing projects and an increase in the number of business services schemes, which are typically less capital intensive.

Recent investors include logistics company DHL, which is to open its first specialist fashion and apparel centre in Pakistan to support the country’s garment export industry, offering a range of bespoke and consultancy services to help firms manage the product flow further upstream in their supply chains. Dubai Islamic Bank has also opened 10 new branches in Pakistan, extending its network to 35 branches, covering 15 major cities.