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KARACHI: President of the Karachi Chamber of Commerce and Industry (KCCI), Muhammad Rehan Hanif, pledged support to the business community in addressing their challenges, emphasizing the Chamber’s dedication to finding solutions for traders during tough times.
The commitment came during a meeting with a delegation from the Pakistan Chemicals and Dyes Merchants Association (PCDMA), led by Chairman Salim Valimuhammad. The PCDMA representatives congratulated the newly elected KCCI leadership, including Senior Vice President Muhammad Raza and Vice President Muhammad Arif Lakhany, and expressed hopes for a productive tenure.
Rehan Hanif assured the PCDMA delegation of KCCI’s backing in tackling issues faced by commercial importers. He urged the association to provide comprehensive details of their concerns, enabling the Chamber to present these effectively to the authorities.
Chairman Salim Valimuhammad highlighted the necessity for enhanced collaboration between KCCI and PCDMA, noting that many PCDMA members are also part of the Chamber. He described the Export Facilitation Scheme (EFS) as a significant challenge for local traders and importers, urging KCCI to assist in advocating for tax inclusions across specific product categories.
Valimuhammad warned of potential business closures if immediate reforms are not enacted, as smaller importers struggle to compete within the existing framework.
The discussions also covered the slow progress on e-invoicing and outdated customs valuation rulings, which are not aligned with current global market conditions, complicating importers’ pricing strategies.
Additionally, delegate member Yasin Lala addressed frequent power outages in Jodia Bazar, attributing business disruptions to load shedding by K-Electric. He called for a stable electricity supply to support commercial activities.