By Commerce Reporter
LAHORE: The business community of Lahore is facing multiple challenges, including rising operational costs, taxation complexities, energy issues and regulatory difficulties, said Khadim Hussain, Vice Chairman Founders Group, former Executive Committee member of Lahore Chamber of Commerce and Industry (LCCI) and candidate for LCCI Executive Committee 2026-28.
An exporter and businessman, Hussain said the future of Lahore’s trade and industry depends on creating an environment where entrepreneurs can focus on expanding businesses, increasing production and exploring international markets.
Addressing members of the business community during his election campaign, Hussain said LCCI should continue strengthening its role as a representative institution that understands the concerns of traders, industrialists, exporters and small businesses.
He said businesses contribute significantly towards employment generation, investment and economic activity, but they require better facilitation and effective institutional support.
Reducing business challenges
Hussain said traders and industrialists are dealing with several issues that directly affect their competitiveness, including high input costs, complicated procedures, compliance requirements and coordination difficulties with different departments.
He said a strong chamber should not only highlight these issues but also pursue practical solutions through continuous engagement with relevant authorities.
According to Hussain, improving the ease of doing business is essential for encouraging investment and supporting economic growth.
Export promotion and global market access
Hussain, who has experience in export-related business activities, said Lahore has significant potential to increase its share in international markets.
He said exporters need better facilitation, market information, support in meeting international standards and stronger linkages with global buyers.
According to him, LCCI can play a more active role in connecting local businesses with international opportunities.
He said export growth would not only strengthen businesses but also contribute towards employment creation and economic stability.
Business-friendly taxation system
Discussing taxation issues, Hussain said businesses understand their responsibilities towards the national economy but require a simpler and more predictable taxation framework.
He said complicated procedures and multiple compliance requirements can create difficulties, especially for small and medium enterprises.
According to him, better coordination among institutions and consultation with the business community can help improve the overall system.
Stronger government-business coordination
Hussain said cooperation between government institutions and the private sector is necessary for sustainable economic development.
He said LCCI should maintain regular communication with government departments and ensure that business concerns are presented through proper channels.
He added that effective representation requires understanding ground realities and maintaining continuous follow-up on issues affecting members.
Supporting industry and SMEs
Hussain said small and medium enterprises are an important part of Lahore’s economy and require greater support to expand.
He said access to information, technology, finance and markets can help SMEs grow and become contributors to exports and employment.
He stressed that industrial development requires better infrastructure, competitive costs and a supportive policy environment.
LCCI elections and future priorities
With the LCCI elections scheduled for September 23 and 24, Hussain said the business community is discussing the future role of the chamber and expectations from elected representatives.
He said representatives should remain accessible to traders and industrialists and work towards resolving issues through institutional mechanisms.
According to Hussain, Lahore’s business community has the potential to play a greater role in Pakistan’s economic development if challenges are addressed through cooperation, facilitation and effective representation.
