Karachi: The Pakistan Stock Exchange (PSX) has reinforced its commitment to transparency and gender equality by mandating the inclusion of gender pay gap data in the annual reports of all listed companies. This requirement is in accordance with Circular no. 10 of 2024 issued by the Securities and Exchange Commission of Pakistan (SECP).
The directive, first announced on April 17, 2024, and reiterated through multiple notices, including the latest on May 4, 2026, obligates companies to disclose this data both in their annual reports and on their websites. The move is part of the broader Prime Minister’s Women Empowerment Package (PM-WEP) 2024, aiming to enhance gender equality and diversity within the corporate sphere.
The compliance deadline is notably crucial for companies whose fiscal year concluded on March 31, 2026. These entities are urged to ensure meticulous adherence to the disclosure requirements set forth by the SECP. Failure to comply, or the submission of incomplete data, may result in enforcement actions by SECP.
According to information available from the Pakistan Stock Exchange (PSX), the disclosure of gender pay gaps is expected to drive transparency and accountability, thereby fostering a more equitable workplace environment. The initiative is seen as a critical step in addressing gender disparities in corporate Pakistan.
The SECP has provided a suggestive template for reporting, which includes the mean and median gender pay gaps, along with any other relevant data. This standardized format aims to facilitate companies in accurately calculating and reporting their gender pay gaps.
The directive applies to financial years ending on or after June 30, 2024, marking a significant shift towards gender equity in financial reporting. The PSX underscores the importance of compliance with these guidelines to support the broader objectives of gender equality and empowerment in the workplace.