Pakistan traders ‘concerned’ over proposed law to restrict trade bodies

Federation of Pakistan Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FPCCI), a body representing over 300 trade organizations, has expressed concerns over proposed changes to the law regulating trade bodies in the country.

Federation of Pakistan Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FPCCI), a body representing over 300 trade organizations, has expressed concerns over proposed changes to the law regulating trade bodies in the country.

Atif Ikram Sheikh, the FPCCI president, has said the proposed amendments to Trade Organization Rules 2013 has “sent shockwaves through the business community nationwide”.

The rules, framed under the Trade Organizations Act 2013 provide the legal framework for registering, licensing, and regulating trade bodies in Pakistan — including chambers of commerce and industry, women's chambers, small traders' chambers, and sector-specific associations.

According to media reports, the proposed legislation would restructure district-level chambers into city-wide bodies. Critics fear that confining trade bodies to municipal city limits could exclude industrial estates, SME clusters in tehsils, and rural export-oriented businesses from proper representation.

In a statement, Sheikh said the business community has serious reservations over the proposed amendment.

The business environment is already shaky due to internal and external trade barriers and pressures, he said, adding that chambers of commerce are the last resort for the business community to raise their voice.

“The proposed legislation will eliminate district-level chambers, destroy institutional structures, and devastate district economies.”

The FPCCI president emphasized that district chambers play a vital role in shaping local economies and contributing to the country's economic growth.

“Any restriction on trade organizations could exclude export-oriented businesses from representation. The amendment will demoralize the business community and discourage SMEs and women-led businesses."

He urged the parliament to reject the bill and allow district chambers to continue their operations.