Karachi: In a move aimed at enhancing transparency within the corporate sector, the Pakistan Stock Exchange (PSX) has reiterated its requirement for listed companies to disclose gender pay gap data in their annual reports and on their websites. This directive follows the Securities and Exchange Commission of Pakistan's (SECP) Circular no. 10 of 2024, issued on April 17, 2024, which emphasizes the importance of promoting gender equality and diversity.
The initiative is closely aligned with the Prime Minister's Women Empowerment Package (PM-WEP) 2024, which underscores the significance of gender parity in the workplace. According to the PSX, the disclosure of gender pay gap information is mandatory for companies with fiscal years ending in September and December 2025. This requirement is part of an ongoing effort to ensure compliance with SECP's guidelines.
Missing the January 5, 2026 deadline for these disclosures could result in enforcement actions by the SECP against non-compliant entities. Companies are urged to utilize the SECP's suggested template for reporting and to ensure that accurate and comprehensive information is made available to the public.
According to information available from the Pakistan Stock Exchange (PSX), this measure is part of a broader framework to strengthen corporate governance and transparency. The PSX has been actively involved in promoting initiatives that contribute to a more equitable business environment in Pakistan.
The SECP had initially introduced the requirement for gender pay gap reporting in March 2021 under Circular no. 07 of 2021, which focused on gender diversity. The Commission has provided guidance to facilitate the accurate calculation and presentation of these figures, ensuring that companies can comply efficiently with the regulatory framework.
As this mandate takes effect, listed companies are expected to adhere strictly to the guidelines to avoid potential penalties and to contribute to the broader goal of achieving gender equality in the corporate sphere.