KARACHI (special crosspondent) – The Federation of Pakistan Chambers of Commerce & Industry (FPCCI) has officially signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with JazzWorld Pakistan Limited (JWPL) to provide the business community with enhanced access to digital and enterprise solutions. Under the terms of this agreement, JazzWorld will offer a 30 percent discount on its specialized services to FPCCI member trade bodies and their individual members.

Expanding Digital Access for SMEs

Mr. Atif Ikram Sheikh, President of the FPCCI, emphasized that this partnership serves as a timely initiative to integrate practical digital tools into Pakistan’s diverse business landscape. He noted that the collaboration is specifically designed to facilitate small and medium enterprises (SMEs), small-scale traders, and women-led businesses. Following the recent Finance Minister and PBC discuss investment, digital transformation and business-led growth sessions, this move aligns with broader national efforts to formalize the private sector and enhance operational efficiency through modern technology.

Economic Necessity of Digital Transformation

Mian Zahid Hussain, Chairman of the Policy Advisory Board of FPCCI (PAB-FPCCI), who spearheaded the negotiations, underscored the necessity of digital adoption in the current economic climate. “Digital transformation is no longer a choice; it is an economic necessity,” said Hussain, highlighting the challenges SMEs face in accessing affordable connectivity and contemporary enterprise services. The agreement provides a crucial pathway for FPCCI’s nationwide network, which encompasses 307 trade bodies and over one million business houses, to bridge the digital divide.

Collaborative Vision for a Modern Economy

Mr. Shahzad Rasheed, President of Enterprise Solutions at JazzWorld Pakistan Limited, expressed enthusiasm for the partnership, noting that it will empower businesses with reliable, secure, and cost-effective digital infrastructure. This initiative also resonates with the government’s broader agenda to promote a paperless, digitized economy. As seen in other major infrastructure projects like the Islamabad Technology Park at Chak Shahzad enters final stages of completion, such strategic alliances are expected to foster transparency and productivity. The leadership of both organizations reaffirmed that this collaboration is aligned with the vision of Prime Minister Mian Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif, aimed at integrating technology across all sectors to secure a more robust and competitive national economy.

Signing Ceremony Attendees

The signing ceremony, held at the FPCCI Head Office in Karachi, was attended by key stakeholders, including Brig. Iftikhar Opel, SI (M), Retd, Secretary General of FPCCI, as well as Mr. Naufal Zamir Sheikh, Head of SME Enterprise Solutions, and Mr. Asim Irshad, Regional SME Head South. The event highlighted a shared commitment to building a digitally proficient, efficient, and sustainable business environment in Pakistan.