LAHORE (Special Correspondent) – Provincial Labour Minister Muhammad Manshaullah Butt has assured the business community that effective measures will be implemented to resolve long-standing issues involving the Punjab Employees Social Security Institution (PESSI). The commitment was made during a high-level meeting on 21 October 2026 with the President of the Lahore Chamber of Commerce and Industry (LCCI), Ali Hussam Asghar, to address business-friendly initiatives in the region.

Key Points

• Provincial Labour Minister Muhammad Manshaullah Butt pledged to review and resolve concerns regarding PESSI.
• LCCI President Ali Hussam Asghar stressed that enhanced institutional coordination is vital for trader facilitation.
• Both parties agreed to adopt a collaborative approach to address ongoing operational difficulties faced by the business sector.
• The meeting underscored the necessity of creating a more conducive environment for industrial and commercial activities.

Strategic Cooperation for Business Growth

During the discussions, Ali Hussam Asghar highlighted that strengthening the nexus between PESSI and the LCCI is essential for streamlining regulatory processes. He stated that robust coordination would directly support the Punjab industrial investment landscape by removing administrative bottlenecks. The LCCI president expressed optimism that consistent engagement with provincial government departments would accelerate the resolution of pending grievances.

Future Collaborative Measures

The leadership of both the Lahore Chamber and the provincial labour department agreed to establish a framework for ongoing dialogue. By aligning their efforts, they aim to ensure that the implementation of social security mandates does not hinder commercial operations. Former Executive Committee member Ehtesham-ul-Haq was also present during the deliberations, reinforcing the private sector’s commitment to policy improvement. Through these joint efforts, stakeholders hope to achieve a more transparent and efficient regulatory climate for traders across the province.

Frequently Asked Questions

What was the primary focus of the meeting between the LCCI and the Labour Minister?

The meeting focused on addressing and resolving the various issues faced by the business community regarding the Punjab Employees Social Security Institution (PESSI).

What steps were agreed upon to support the traders?

Both the Lahore Chamber and PESSI agreed to work together through mutual cooperation and enhanced institutional coordination to resolve traders’ concerns and promote a business-friendly environment.