Mardan Ali Zaidi outlines business-focused agenda for LCCI, calls for stronger representation of traders and industry
By Commerce Reporter
LAHORE: Former Executive Committee member of the Lahore Chamber of Commerce and Industry (LCCI) and candidate for the upcoming Executive Committee election, Mardan Ali Zaidi, has outlined a comprehensive agenda focused on improving business facilitation, strengthening institutional coordination and addressing challenges faced by traders and industrialists.
In an interview, Zaidi said the chamber should work as an effective platform for resolving the genuine concerns of the business community by maintaining continuous engagement with government departments, regulatory authorities and stakeholders.
He said the role of a chamber was not limited to raising issues but also required follow-up, policy engagement and practical solutions for businesses.
LCCI should become an effective voice of business community
Mardan Ali Zaidi said traders and industrialists required a chamber that could represent their concerns at every relevant forum.
“The business community contributes to economic growth, employment generation and exports. Their issues related to taxation, regulations, energy costs and infrastructure require serious attention and consistent representation,” he said.
He added that an effective chamber should bridge the gap between the government and private sector while ensuring that business-related policies were practical and workable.
Simplifying taxation and reducing compliance burden
Discussing challenges faced by businesses, Zaidi said complicated taxation procedures and increasing compliance requirements had created difficulties, particularly for small and medium enterprises (SMEs).
He said businesses needed a simplified taxation system and better coordination between departments to reduce unnecessary delays and procedural hurdles.
“SMEs are the backbone of the economy. They need an environment where they can focus on production, investment and growth instead of spending excessive time dealing with complicated procedures,” he added.
Better coordination with government departments
Zaidi said the chamber should strengthen its working relationship with government institutions including departments responsible for taxation, development, environment, local administration and other regulatory matters.
He said many business issues could be resolved through improved communication and regular consultation between stakeholders.
“Industrialists and traders should have a platform where their genuine concerns are properly presented and followed until a solution is achieved,” he said.
Industrial zones need focused attention
Talking about industrial areas, Zaidi said infrastructure development and better management of industrial zones should be among the priorities.
He said industrial areas required improved facilities, efficient services and regular engagement with industrial communities.
According to him, industrial growth was directly linked with employment opportunities and economic stability, making it important to address issues affecting manufacturers.
Focus on business-friendly policies
Zaidi said policies affecting businesses should be developed after consultation with industry representatives.
He emphasized that entrepreneurs should be treated as partners in economic development rather than only as sources of revenue.
“Stable and business-friendly policies encourage investment, increase production and create employment opportunities,” he said.
Supporting exporters and promoting economic growth
As a businessperson associated with the export sector, Zaidi said exporters required a supportive environment to compete in international markets.
He said improving ease of doing business, reducing operational costs and ensuring policy consistency were important for enhancing Pakistan’s exports.
Parking, infrastructure and urban business issues
Zaidi also highlighted issues faced by traders operating in commercial areas, including parking problems, infrastructure limitations and difficulties in daily business operations.
He said markets and commercial areas should be developed according to modern requirements to facilitate both businesses and customers.
A chamber focused on results, not only representation
Concluding the discussion, Mardan Ali Zaidi said the success of any chamber leadership should be measured through practical outcomes and improvements in the business environment.
He said his focus was on strengthening communication with the business community, highlighting their concerns and working towards solutions through constructive engagement.
“The business community needs representation that listens, understands and follows through on commitments,” he said.