By Commerce Reporter
LAHORE, APRIL 10 — Senior Vice President of Lahore Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Tanveer A Sheikh, has raised serious concerns over intensifying economic challenges, citing a sharp rise in the cost of doing business, persistent liquidity constraints and policy uncertainty.
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Speaking after a high-level consultative session chaired by Federal Finance Minister Muhammad Aurangzeb, Tanveer A Sheikh said the current economic environment is undermining industrial productivity, export competitiveness and overall growth.
He noted that escalating energy tariffs and increasing input costs are eroding industrial margins, making it increasingly difficult for businesses to sustain operations. Export-oriented sectors, he added, are particularly affected as higher production costs weaken their position in international markets.
Highlighting financial constraints, he pointed out that restricted access to credit and high borrowing rates are limiting business expansion and investment. “Tight liquidity conditions are creating serious challenges for working capital management across industries,” he said.
Tanveer A Sheikh also expressed concern over the inconsistent and unpredictable policy framework, stating that frequent changes in economic policies discourage long-term planning and shake investor confidence.
He further drew attention to infrastructure bottlenecks, including transportation and energy-related issues, which continue to disrupt supply chains and business activities.
Calling for urgent action, he urged the government to introduce targeted reforms in the upcoming federal budget, including measures to reduce energy costs, improve access to finance and ensure policy stability.
He emphasised that timely and decisive steps are crucial to stabilise the economic environment, revive industrial activity and restore investor confidence.
