ISLAMABAD, JUN 23 /DNA/ – Nasir Mansoor Qureshi, President of the Islamabad Chamber of Commerce and Industry (ICCI) has underscored the urgent need for a stable, inclusive and forward-looking economic policy framework to drive sustained industrial growth and boost the country’s export potential. Talking to different visiting industry and trade leaders here on Monday, he stressed that without a predictable environment and active engagement of the private sector in policymaking, the country cannot overcome its current economic headwinds or achieve long–term competitiveness in regional and global markets.
Expressing his concerns, the ICCI President said, the absence of relief in electricity tariffs and industrial financing in the federal budget is deeply disappointing. He highlighted that soaring power and fuel prices, combined with high interest rates, are eroding the competitiveness of local manufacturers, particularly Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs).
Nasir Mansoor Qureshi further noted that rising inflation, persistent currency depreciation, and increasing import costs are placing additional pressure on domestic exporters, weakening their ability to compete in international markets.
He strongly underlined the need for the implementation of a regionally competitive energy tariff to level the playing field with key export competitors such as Bangladesh and Vietnam, adding that without such a move, Pakistan risks further losing its share in global export markets.
The ICCI President reiterated the Chamber’s commitment to advocate for a business-friendly environment and urged policymakers to give due weight to the voice of the private sector while formulating economic strategies.
