In a high-level consultative meeting ahead of crucial talks with government ministers, President of the Federation of Pakistan Chambers of Commerce & Industry (FPCCI), Atif Ikram Sheikh, brought together senior representatives from chambers nationwide to address concerns over proposed government measures in the new finance bill and controversial clauses in the Sales Tax Act. Business leaders voiced serious apprehension about the recent legislation, warning it could severely impact the business environment and the broader economy.
The meeting, chaired by Atif Ikram Sheikh, included FPCCI Senior Vice President Saqib Fayyaz Magoon, Zakki Ijaz, Vice President Tariq Jadoon, Kareem Aziz Malik, Malik Suhail, President of ICCI, and other prominent office-bearers from across the country. Participants held detailed discussions on the government’s suggested fiscal steps and specific contentious sections of the Sales Tax Act, which have drawn widespread criticism from the business community.
Expressing unified concern, participants stressed their deep unease over the new laws, with several chamber officials warning that the government’s actions threaten regular business operations and could directly impact the average citizen. The meeting concluded with a collective resolve to adopt a firm strategy under Sheikh’s leadership to safeguard the interests of the business community and counter any attempts to divide their ranks.
Atif Ikram Sheikh underscored the importance of unity among business leaders as they strive to protect their mutual interests and resolve ongoing challenges. He also briefed attendees on the upcoming scheduled negotiations with the finance minister, assuring them that the community’s concerns would be firmly represented.
The FPCCI president urged the government to take the situation seriously, noting that recent legislative changes have already adversely affected the business climate. He expressed hope that ongoing dialogue with government officials, especially the upcoming meeting with the finance minister, would help resolve the pressing issues.
The business community, under the unified leadership of Atif Ikram Sheikh, declared they would not allow the execution of the disputed clauses in the finance bill and the Sales Tax Act, vowing continued collective action until their concerns are addressed.
