By Commerce Reporter
LAHORE: The Lahore Chamber of Commerce and Industry (LCCI) has sought the intervention of Chief Minister Punjab Maryam Nawaz Sharif regarding growing concerns of the business community over the enforcement activities of the Punjab Enforcement and Regulatory Authority (PERA), urging the government to ensure transparency, accountability and protection of legitimate businesses.
The demand was made at a press conference held at the Lahore Chamber of Commerce and Industry. LCCI President Faheem Ur Rehman Saigol addressed the press conference while Senior Vice President Tanveer Ahmed Sheikh, Vice President Khurram Lodhi, former LCCI President Muhammad Ali Mian, Executive Committee members and presidents of various markets were also present.
Speaking on the occasion, LCCI President Faheem Ur Rehman Saigol appreciated the business-friendly initiatives and reform measures undertaken by the Chief Minister Punjab for economic development, investment promotion and improved governance. However, he said that serious concerns are being raised by traders and market representatives regarding certain enforcement practices of PERA, which are causing anxiety among the business community.
He said that the Lahore Chamber fully supports the rule of law and effective regulatory oversight but believes that all enforcement actions must be carried out in a transparent, fair and business-friendly manner. He stressed that legitimate businesses should not be subjected to unnecessary harassment, uncertainty or coercive actions.
LCCI President Faheem Ur Rehman Saigol further said that the Chamber continues to receive feedback from different markets indicating that certain enforcement actions are being conducted without prior notice and without providing traders a fair opportunity to present their stance.
He reiterated that while the business community fully respects regulatory authority and supports lawful enforcement, it is essential that all actions remain within clearly defined legal boundaries, ensuring transparency, accountability, and protection of legitimate commercial activity in order to maintain business confidence and economic stability.
He concluded by saying that the government and the business community are partners in economic development and prosperity, and that both effective law enforcement and protection of citizens’ rights are essential for sustainable economic growth.
