The head of the Federation of Pakistan Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FPCCI) has voiced grave apprehension over a proposed legislative amendment, stating it has sent “shockwaves” through the national business community by threatening to eliminate district-level chambers of commerce.
In a statement today, FPCCI President Atif Ikram Sheikh identified the Trade Organization Rules 2013 Amendment Bill as the source of major reservations among entrepreneurs. He highlighted that the move comes when the commercial environment is already unstable due to both internal and external trade pressures.
Sheikh stressed the critical function of district chambers in fostering local economic activity and contributing to the nation”s overall growth. He described these bodies as the “last resort for the business community to raise their voice.”
The proposed changes, he cautioned, would not only dismantle institutional frameworks but could also result in the exclusion of export-oriented firms from representation. He asserted that the amendment would demoralise the business sector and particularly discourage small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) and women-led businesses.
Urging the parliament to reject the bill, the FPCCI president called on authorities to reconsider the controversial measure. “This move will have far-reaching consequences for the economy and the business community,” Sheikh stated, appealing for district chambers to be permitted to continue their operations effectively.