Mian Abuzar Shad gives credit to COAS for borders securing, economic revival and control to dollar flight
BY COMMERCE REPORTER
LAHORE: The President of the Lahore Chamber of Commerce and Industry (LCCI), Mian Abuzar Shad has priased Chief of Army Staff General Asim Munir for his exemplary efforts in securing borders, reviving the economy and control to the dollar flight.
Addressing a seminar organized in collaboration with the Anti-Narcotics Force (ANF) Punjab at the LCCI, he acknowledged General Asim Munir’s contributions and expressed the business community’s appreciation.
The seminar featured prominent speakers, including ANF Director General Brigadier Sikandar Hayat Chaudhry, LCCI Senior Vice President Engineer Khalid Usman, Vice President Shahid Nazir Chaudhry and former LCCI President Mian Anjum Nisar. DG ANF presented an extensive overview of the agency’s operations and achievements.
Mian Abuzar Shad called for genuine representation of traders on the Anti-Narcotics Board, highlighting the importance of balancing regulatory measures with business needs. He praised the ANF’s efforts and proposed setting up a facilitation center at LCCI to assist members, particularly those in the chemical and pharmaceutical sectors, in navigating regulatory challenges.
Brigadier Sikandar Hayat underscored the need for strict compliance with laws to prevent issues and assured businesses of ANF’s support in fostering a favorable environment for industry growth. Highlighting the agency’s commitment to eradicating drug abuse, he said that drug traffickers not only harm youth but also damage Pakistan’s international reputation. He also discussed drug related challenges arising for Pakistan because of land locked Afghanistan.
Mian Abuzar Shad voiced alarm over the rising use of synthetic drugs, particularly among school and university students and urged all stakeholders to adopt a zero-tolerance policy against drug cartels and their facilitators. He stressed the importance of regulatory reforms that balance public safety with the smooth operation of businesses.
Former LCCI President Mian Anjum Nisar expressed concern over recent changes to regulations for imported industrial chemicals, which are vital for industries like pharmaceuticals and printing. He called for urgent revision, warning that such measures, introduced without consulting stakeholders, threaten the survival of thousands of businesses.
LCCI Senior Vice President Engineer Khalid Usman and Vice President Shahid Nazir Chaudhry highlighted the challenges faced by chemical traders, including extensive ANF scrutiny of substances like sulfuric acid and nitric acid. He urged authorities to simplify licensing processes and reduce unnecessary restrictions, ensuring that businesses can operate efficiently without compromising public safety.
