LAHORE (Special Correspondent) – Speaker Punjab Assembly Malik Muhammad Ahmad Khan has assured the Lahore Chamber of Commerce and Industry (LCCI) that its concerns and proposals regarding regulatory enforcement, taxation, industrial development, and investment facilitation will be addressed with relevant authorities. During his address at the LCCI, the Speaker emphasized that effective legislation requires consultation with stakeholders and cautioned that excessive regulation can discourage investment and undermine economic activity.

Key Points

• Speaker Punjab Assembly Malik Muhammad Ahmad Khan pledged to present LCCI proposals on taxation and regulation to relevant authorities.
• LCCI leadership called for an end to the FIR culture, citing concerns over trader harassment and administrative overreach.
• The chamber proposed a grievance-redressal mechanism and stronger coordination between the business community and government departments.
• LCCI members advocated for the revival of sick industrial units through a comprehensive government-led survey and incentive program.

Addressing Regulatory and Legal Concerns

LCCI President Ali Hussam Asghar, Senior Vice President Sardar Usman Ghani, and Vice President Chaudhry Khadim Hussain led the delegation, urging an end to the ‘FIR culture’ and a review of arrest powers. They argued that existing enforcement practices often lead to collective punishment for businesses, a sentiment highlighted by Sardar Usman Ghani regarding incidents in the local market. The LCCI leadership requested that the government consult the private sector before introducing new laws.

Government Support for Business Growth

Speaker Malik Muhammad Ahmad Khan acknowledged the vital role of the business community in driving economic growth and employment. He praised the development efforts led by Prime Minister Shahbaz Sharif and Chief Minister Punjab Maryam Nawaz Sharif to improve infrastructure, municipal services, and the overall business environment. The Speaker confirmed that the Punjab Assembly remains open to dialogue, promising that specific proposals, including amendments to the Punjab Real Estate Regulatory Authority and the Punjab Food Authority Act, would be formally reviewed.

Proposals for Economic Revival

Former LCCI President Mian Misbah-ur-Rehman suggested convening a meeting between government departments and business stakeholders to provide interim relief while legislative amendments are considered. Additionally, Khawaja Shahzeb Akram proposed a survey of sick industrial units to identify closure causes and attract new investment. Addressing the broader economic landscape, Ali Hussam Asghar noted that the Invest Lahore initiative aims to measure progress in business activity throughout the current tenure. Concerns regarding land-conversion charges under the Ravi Urban Development Authority (RUDA) were also raised, with the LCCI urging the government to alleviate the financial burden on approximately 1,400 SME units.

Frequently Asked Questions

What specific reforms is the LCCI seeking from the Punjab Assembly?

The LCCI is calling for the removal of the ‘FIR culture,’ a review of arrest powers, and more fair and transparent enforcement practices to protect the business community from unnecessary harassment.

How does the LCCI plan to revive closed industrial units?

LCCI members have proposed a comprehensive survey to identify the reasons for the closure of sick industrial units and determine the investment required to bring them back into operation.