RCCI President Urges Government Consultation for Budget Planning

The 16th All Pakistan Chamber Presidents Conference (APCPC) recently convened, organized by the Rawalpindi Chamber of Commerce and Industry (RCCI). Business leaders at the conference stressed the crucial need for government consultation with all stakeholders before finalizing the budget for the fiscal year 2024-25. They cautioned that failure to engage in this consultation process could lead to the budget being rejected. The event showcased unity among the 53 chambers of the country and called for political parties to collaborate on the Charter of Economy (CoE).

Representatives from various regions, including the four provinces, Kashmir, Gilgit-Baltistan, and women chambers, participated in the APCPC. RCCI President Saqib Rafiq highlighted the unity within the business community and advocated for streamlined processes to support businesses. He emphasized the importance of cross-sector collaboration to enhance the economy, with a specific focus on agriculture, information technology, and education.

Another official, Ahsan Iqbal, reiterated the significance of consulting the business community for budget proposals. He underscored the necessity of a tax policy that bolsters businesses and pointed out positive economic indicators resulting from government initiatives. Iqbal also addressed key issues such as the wheat dispute with farmers, trade relations with Iran, and progress on CPEC projects with China.

Karachi Chamber of Commerce and Industry (KCCI) president Iftikhar Ahmed advocated for the promotion of green energy as an alternative source. He stressed the importance of consulting all chambers for successful economic policies and highlighted the construction sector's role in industrial growth, suggesting the leasing of plots for industrial purposes.

RCCI Group Leader Sohail Altaf acknowledged the challenging economic situation in Pakistan. Leaders from Lahore Chamber of Commerce and Industry (LCCI), Faisalabad Chamber of Commerce and Industry (FCCI), and other business representatives also shared their insights during the conference.

The 16th APCPC underscored the critical need for government consultation with stakeholders in budget planning. Business leaders emphasized unity and collaboration across sectors to boost the economy, highlighting key areas such as agriculture, information technology, and green energy. The conference served as a platform for constructive dialogue and shared perspectives on economic challenges and opportunities in Pakistan.