By Commerce Reporter
LAHORE: Lahore’s business community is facing a range of challenges, including rising operational costs, regulatory issues, taxation concerns, infrastructure problems and difficulties in coordination with government departments, said Mardan Ali Zaidi, candidate for the Lahore Chamber of Commerce and Industry (LCCI) Executive Committee 2026-28.
Addressing business community members during his election campaign, Zaidi said the role of a chamber representative should be focused on understanding ground realities and presenting practical solutions for traders, industrialists and entrepreneurs.
He said businesses require a supportive environment where they can focus on production, investment and expansion instead of spending excessive time dealing with administrative hurdles.
According to Zaidi, issues such as energy costs, compliance requirements, taxation procedures, commercial infrastructure and access to government facilitation directly affect the competitiveness of businesses.
He said Lahore’s traders and industrialists play a significant role in employment generation and economic activity, and their concerns should receive effective institutional representation.
Focus on business facilitation
Zaidi said improving business facilitation should remain a key priority for chamber representatives.
He said an effective mechanism is needed where business-related complaints can be documented, followed up and communicated to relevant authorities.
According to him, regular engagement between the chamber and government departments can help address issues more efficiently and improve the overall business environment.
Challenges faced by industry
Discussing industrial concerns, Zaidi highlighted the importance of addressing factors that affect production costs and competitiveness.
He said manufacturers require better infrastructure, reliable utilities, simplified procedures and policies that encourage investment.
He added that Lahore’s industrial base has significant potential, but businesses need institutional support to expand and compete in domestic and international markets.
Export growth and economic activity
Zaidi said increasing exports and strengthening productive sectors are important for economic development.
He said Lahore-based businesses operating in different sectors can contribute further to Pakistan’s trade potential if they receive better facilitation and market opportunities.
He stressed the need for cooperation among businesses, government institutions and trade bodies to improve economic outcomes.
LCCI elections and business representation
With the LCCI elections scheduled for September 23 and 24, candidates from different groups are presenting their priorities before the business community.
Zaidi said his focus remains on issues affecting traders and industrialists and on strengthening the role of elected representatives within the chamber.
He said the business community’s concerns, challenges and expectations should remain central to the discussion surrounding the future direction of LCCI.
