Syed Feroz Alam Shah, an advisor to Pakistan’s Board of Investment (BoI), has made significant contributions to fostering economic and cultural relations between Pakistan and Japan. As an Honorary Technical Advisor to the BoI since 2010, he has played a key role in promoting Japanese investment in Pakistan, particularly by facilitating business entries into Pakistan’s Special Economic Zones (SEZs) and streamlining the application processes. He also contributed to policy amendments that better align the SEZ Act with practical business needs.

Beyond his governmental advisory role, Shah co-founded the Pak-Japan Friendship Society in 2000 and later served as its president. Through this organization, he has promoted cultural exchange, such as showcasing Japanese films, martial arts, and traditional arts in Pakistan. His efforts were further recognized when Japan awarded him the prestigious Order of the Rising Sun, Gold Rays with Rosette, in 2021 for his outstanding contributions to bilateral relations.

Syed Feroz Alam Shah has played a pivotal role in strengthening economic and cultural ties between Pakistan and Japan. His contributions can be categorised into three main areas:

1. Economic Contributions
• Role at the Board of Investment (BoI): Serving as an Honorary Technical Advisor since 2010, Shah has facilitated Japanese investments in Pakistan, focusing on industries and Special Economic Zones (SEZs). He simplified procedures for Japanese firms entering Pakistan, addressed bureaucratic hurdles, and helped align SEZ regulations with practical business requirements.

• Industrial Support: He supported Japanese firms in establishing operations in Pakistan, ensuring smoother transitions into the local market. His efforts include lobbying for amendments in investment laws to create a more business-friendly environment.

2. Cultural Initiatives
• Pak-Japan Friendship Society (PJFS): Shah co-founded PJFS in 2000 in Balochistan, promoting cultural exchange between the two nations. He became its president in 2018 and expanded its activities, such as organizing cultural events, showcasing Japanese cinema, and promoting martial arts like karate.

• Pak-Japan Cultural Centre: He established this center in Quetta to deepen understanding of Japanese culture in Pakistan through various cultural programs.

3. Recognition and Awards
• Order of the Rising Sun, Gold Rays with Rosette: In 2021, the Japanese government awarded Shah this prestigious decoration, recognizing his dedication to fostering Japan-Pakistan relations. This honor reflects his dual contributions to economic development and cultural diplomacy.

Syed Feroz Alam Shah was also awarded the Tamgha-e-Imtiaz, a prestigious civil award in Pakistan, for his notable contributions to the country’s public and economic sectors. Specifically, his efforts in fostering international business relations, particularly between Pakistan and Japan, played a pivotal role in strengthening economic and diplomatic ties between the two nations. His work as an advisor for the Board of Investment (BOI) and his initiatives to attract Japanese investment into Pakistan have been instrumental in promoting bilateral trade and industrial collaboration.

This recognition underscores his dedication to advancing Pakistan’s economic development and enhancing its global partnerships.

His efforts have been lauded as a bridge between the two nations, supporting mutual growth and understanding on multiple fronts.