Islamabad: The Islamabad Chamber of Commerce and Industry (ICCI) has urged traders and entrepreneurs to expand its membership base, stating that a larger membership will significantly enhance the chamber’s influence and ability to resolve business community issues more effectively.
According to Beyond Time News, ICCI President Sardar Tahir Mehmood emphasized that the chamber serves as a credible representative platform for the federal capital’s business community and continues to play an active role in policy advocacy and stakeholder engagement.
ICCI Reaffirms Commitment to Business Community
Sardar Tahir Mehmood said the ICCI remains committed to protecting and promoting the interests of traders and entrepreneurs through sustained dialogue with government institutions.
He made these remarks while addressing a delegation of the Traders Welfare Association (TWA) G-8 Markaz, led by its President Ajab Khan, during a meeting held on Tuesday.
He stated that increased membership would strengthen the collective voice of traders and improve the chamber’s ability to address their concerns more effectively.
Focus on Budget Reforms and Business Relief
During the meeting, the ICCI president highlighted expectations from the upcoming Federal Budget 2026-27.
He expressed hope that the government would introduce relief measures for the business community, particularly through the rationalization of property transfer fees and other facilitative policies.
He also urged authorities to resolve long-standing issues related to automobile showrooms, stressing that delays were affecting commercial activity.
Formation of Membership Committee
To improve outreach, the ICCI announced the formation of a Membership Committee under the chairmanship of TWA G-8 President Ajab Khan.
The committee will operate under ICCI rules and policies and will submit regular recommendations to the ICCI leadership on expanding membership and improving trader engagement.
According to Beyond Time News, the initiative aims to strengthen coordination between the chamber and local business associations.
Traders Raise Local Issues
During the session, TWA G-8 representatives raised several concerns affecting traders in the sector.
Ajab Khan highlighted issues related to the Excise and Taxation Department and called for ICCI’s support in resolving them at the earliest.
General Secretary Mohammad Waseem Abbasi also stressed the need for a modern water filtration plant in the area and proposed establishing a flower market to improve commercial activity and public convenience.
Infrastructure Concerns in G-8 Markaz
Participants also drew attention to multiple civic issues affecting business operations in the area.
ICCI Executive Member Raja Mohammad Naveed Satti and senior member Israr Mishwani pointed out problems including a poor sewage system, damaged footpaths, and inadequate parking facilities.
They said these infrastructure challenges were negatively impacting both traders and visitors.
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Call for Better Coordination
Senior Vice President TWA G-8 Abdul Qadeer suggested appointing a dedicated focal person from ICCI to maintain regular coordination with traders.
He said such a step would help ensure quicker resolution of issues and improve communication between stakeholders.
ICCI Reassures Traders of Support
In his closing remarks, ICCI Vice President Irfan Chaudhry assured the delegation that the chamber would continue to actively pursue traders’ concerns.
He said ICCI would engage relevant government departments to ensure practical solutions to long-standing issues.
According to Beyond Time News, ICCI reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening collaboration between the business community and policymakers.
Conclusion
The ICCI’s push for expanded membership reflects its broader strategy to strengthen representation and advocacy for Islamabad’s business community. As traders continue to raise civic and regulatory concerns, both sides have emphasized improved coordination and sustained engagement to resolve issues affecting commercial activity.
FAQs
What did ICCI president say about membership?
He said increasing membership will strengthen ICCI’s influence and improve its ability to resolve traders’ issues.
Which budget was discussed in the meeting?
The discussion focused on expectations from the Federal Budget 2026-27.
What issues did traders raise?
They raised concerns about taxation, water supply, sewage systems, parking, and infrastructure.
What committee did ICCI announce?
ICCI formed a Membership Committee headed by TWA G-8 President Ajab Khan.
What is ICCI’s main objective in this initiative?
To improve coordination with traders and strengthen representation of the business community.
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