FPCCI Accused of Siding with Government, Ignoring Business Needs

Karachi: The President of the North Karachi Association of Trade and Industry (NKATI), Faisal Moiz Khan, has criticized the Federation of Pakistan Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FPCCI), claiming it has become more aligned with governmental interests than those of the business community. This criticism came in the wake of a successful strike organized by the Karachi Chamber of Commerce and Industry (KCCI) against the Finance Act 2025-26, which business leaders argue contains oppressive tax measures.

Khan expressed gratitude toward KCCI President Muhammad Javed Bilwani for orchestrating the strike, which was intended to convey the business community’s dissatisfaction with the current fiscal policies. He highlighted the protest as a necessary measure, given that prior attempts to engage the government through formal suggestions had been ignored.

Particular criticism was directed at sections 37A and 37B of the Income Tax Ordinance, which grant authorities the power to arrest taxpayers and initiate legal proceedings without due process. Khan described these measures as unjust and fear-inducing. He also condemned the penalties on cash transactions under Section 21(s), deeming them detrimental to conventional business practices.

Khan called for the reinstatement of the Final Tax Regime for exporters, emphasizing its importance for the industry. He suggested that the government’s response to the strike included efforts to undermine KCCI leadership and other prominent business figures, while accusing the FPCCI of failing to represent the business community’s interests effectively.

In an appeal, Khan urged Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and Field Marshal General Asim Munir to address the concerns raised by the business sector. He requested genuine engagement with business representatives and written assurances to foster a conducive environment for industry and exports.