By Commerce Reporter
LAHORE – As the Lahore Chamber of Commerce and Industry (LCCI) elections approach in September, discussions among the business community have intensified over representation, traders’ rights and the future direction of the chamber.
President of the Progressive Group, Engineer Khalid Usman, has highlighted the group’s 14-year journey since 2012, focusing on its efforts to advocate for traders’ interests and establish what he described as a stronger and more inclusive platform for the business community.
In an interview, Usman presented the concept of “Chamber for All”, saying the group aims to transform the LCCI into an institution that provides equal opportunities and representation to all traders rather than serving the interests of a limited number of influential individuals.
He said the chamber should become a platform where small, medium and large businesses can raise their concerns and actively participate in decision-making processes.
“The business community needs a chamber where every trader feels represented and has access to opportunities,” Usman said, stressing the importance of widening participation in trade politics.
The Progressive Group president also discussed the need to increase representation of traders who operate outside traditional commercial markets. He said thousands of businessmen from areas such as Gulberg, DHA and Johar Town, particularly those belonging to the associate class, need a stronger voice in chamber affairs.
According to Usman, many traders in these areas believe their concerns have not received adequate attention under the existing system, and the Progressive Group intends to bridge this gap by bringing their issues to the forefront.
Highlighting the role of young entrepreneurs and women in business leadership, Usman said the group plans to encourage greater participation of youth in trade politics. He also announced plans for establishing a dedicated women’s wing to ensure meaningful representation of female entrepreneurs within the chamber.
He said women are playing an increasingly important role in Pakistan’s economy and their involvement in business organizations should move beyond symbolic participation.
Speaking about the upcoming elections, Usman urged traders to actively use their voting power and take part in the electoral process. He said the current economic challenges require a leadership with a strong mandate that can effectively negotiate with government institutions on issues affecting businesses.
He added that chamber representatives should not remain limited to office activities but should regularly engage with traders, understand their problems and work towards practical solutions.
The Progressive Group has positioned the upcoming LCCI elections as an opportunity for the business community to choose a direction based on accountability, wider participation and stronger representation.
The group’s campaign message revolves around creating a more inclusive chamber structure, where traders from different sectors and areas can contribute to policy discussions and economic planning.
With the election campaign gaining momentum, business circles are closely watching the competing visions and strategies of different groups seeking representation in one of Pakistan’s most influential chambers of commerce.
