By M Qadeer
LAHORE: The Lahore Chamber of Commerce and Industry (LCCI) should transform itself into a stronger platform for export promotion, business facilitation and international market access, says Khadim Hussain, Vice Chairman Founders Group, former Executive Committee member of LCCI and candidate for LCCI Election 2026-28.
An exporter with practical experience of international trade, Hussain said Lahore’s business community has the talent, entrepreneurial capacity and industrial strength required to contribute significantly to Pakistan’s export growth.
However, he added that businesses need a supportive environment where they can compete effectively through lower operational costs, simpler procedures, better infrastructure and stronger institutional support.
In an interview outlining his vision for LCCI, Hussain said the chamber should play a more active role in helping businesses move beyond traditional markets and explore new opportunities around the world.
He said the future of economic growth depends on creating conditions where businesses can expand, invest, innovate and compete internationally.
Exporter’s perspective on business challenges
Hussain said his experience as an exporter has provided him with a direct understanding of the challenges faced by businesses operating in global markets.
Exporters, he said, are competing in an environment where buyers demand competitive prices, consistent quality, timely delivery and international standards.
“For an exporter, competitiveness does not start at the port or at the international exhibition. It starts with the conditions in which a product is manufactured and prepared for the market,” he said.
He maintained that energy costs, taxation procedures, logistics, compliance requirements and access to technology all influence the ability of businesses to compete.
According to Hussain, improving exports requires attention to the complete business ecosystem rather than focusing on one individual issue.
LCCI should play a stronger export role
Hussain said LCCI has an important responsibility in connecting Lahore’s business community with international opportunities.
He said many businesses have the potential to export but require greater awareness about foreign markets, buyer expectations, certification requirements and international business practices.
The chamber, he added, can become a stronger facilitator by developing better connections with foreign chambers, trade organisations and business networks.
According to Hussain, LCCI should encourage more businesses to explore markets beyond traditional destinations and help entrepreneurs understand changing global demand patterns.
He said export growth should not remain limited to large companies. Small and medium enterprises should also be encouraged and supported to become part of international supply chains.
Reducing cost of doing business
Hussain said lowering the cost of doing business should remain one of the most important priorities for LCCI.
He explained that exporters face competition from countries where businesses may have different cost structures and support systems.
When domestic costs rise, he said, businesses face greater difficulty maintaining competitive prices.
He identified energy costs, taxation, financing, transportation and regulatory procedures as areas requiring continuous attention.
According to Hussain, businesses want to comply with laws and contribute to the economy, but procedures should be clear, predictable and manageable.
He said a business-friendly environment benefits not only entrepreneurs but also the wider economy through increased investment, employment and production.
Energy costs affect export competitiveness
Hussain said affordable and reliable energy is essential for industrial and export-oriented sectors.
Manufacturers need stability to plan production schedules, fulfil international orders and make long-term investment decisions.
He said uncertainty regarding major production costs can affect business confidence.
According to Hussain, LCCI should continue presenting the concerns of industrial and commercial consumers before relevant authorities and advocate measures that support competitiveness.
He added that strengthening industry would ultimately help Pakistan improve exports and generate economic opportunities.
Simplifying taxation and compliance
Discussing taxation, Hussain said businesses understand their national responsibility and recognise the importance of contributing towards economic development.
However, he said taxation and compliance procedures should be designed in a way that encourages business growth.
He called for greater simplicity, coordination and transparency in procedures affecting businesses.
According to Hussain, smaller businesses often face greater difficulties because they have limited resources to manage complex administrative requirements.
He said LCCI should continue engaging with policymakers and provide practical recommendations based on the experiences of its members.
A more efficient system, he added, can encourage investment and improve voluntary compliance.
SMEs can become future exporters
Hussain said small and medium enterprises represent one of the biggest opportunities for expanding Pakistan’s export base.
Many SMEs produce quality goods but face challenges in accessing international buyers, improving standards and understanding global markets.
He said these businesses require support in areas including technology, finance, training and market access.
According to Hussain, LCCI can help SMEs by creating awareness programmes, facilitating business linkages and connecting entrepreneurs with relevant institutions.
He said today’s small businesses can become tomorrow’s major exporters if they receive the right support.
Technology and innovation essential for growth
Hussain said technology adoption is becoming increasingly important for businesses seeking international competitiveness.
Global markets are changing rapidly, and companies need modern production methods, digital solutions and innovative approaches to remain relevant.
He said Lahore has a strong base of young entrepreneurs and skilled professionals who can contribute to future economic growth.
According to Hussain, stronger cooperation between businesses, educational institutions and technology sectors can help create a more innovative business environment.
Better infrastructure and logistics required
Hussain said infrastructure and logistics are also critical factors for export growth.
Businesses require efficient transportation systems, improved connectivity and better coordination to ensure timely movement of goods.
He said commercial and industrial infrastructure directly affects competitiveness.
According to Hussain, Lahore’s position as a major economic centre provides significant opportunities, but these opportunities must be supported through better planning and development.
He added that improving infrastructure would benefit exporters, manufacturers, traders and consumers alike.
Government-business partnership
Hussain said economic progress requires cooperation between government institutions and the private sector.
He said businesses need supportive policies, while government benefits from increased exports, investment, employment and economic activity.
According to him, LCCI should maintain constructive engagement with government while effectively presenting the concerns and proposals of the business community.
He said strong representation should be based on dialogue, research and practical solutions.
A stronger chamber for Lahore’s business community
Hussain said the success of future LCCI leadership should be measured by practical outcomes and the confidence of its members.
He said traders, industrialists and exporters need a chamber that listens to their concerns, understands their challenges and follows up on important issues.
With the LCCI elections scheduled for September 23 and 24, Hussain said the business community should evaluate candidates based on their experience, vision and ability to contribute towards economic development.
He said Lahore has the potential to become a stronger export and investment centre, provided businesses receive the right support and representation.
According to Hussain, the objective should be to build an LCCI that works as an effective bridge between businesses, policymakers and international markets.
“A stronger business community will contribute to a stronger economy,” he said.
