KARACHI: Chairman Businessmen Group (BMG) Zubair Motiwala and President Karachi Chamber of Commerce & Industry (KCCI) Jawed Bilwani have hailed the Secretary Commerce’s decision to suspend the DGTO’s order, effectively reinstating KCCI’s democratically elected Office Bearers and Managing Committee.
Addressing a media briefing at KCCI on Thursday, they reaffirmed their commitment to serving the business community under BMG’s long-standing public service vision.
Accompanied by Vice Chairmen BMG Anjum Nisar and Mian Abrar Ahmed, along with Senior Vice President KCCI Zia ul Arfeen, Vice President Faisal Khalil Ahmed, Former Presidents Abdullah Zaki, Younus Bashir, Shariq Vohra, Tariq Yousuf, Muhammad Idrees, Barrister Ahmed Masood, and several KCCI Managing Committee Members, Motiwala and Bilwani celebrated the decision as a major step towards restoring stability and confidence in trade organizations.
BMG’s Commitment to KCCI and Business Community
Chairman BMG Zubair Motiwala described the Ministry of Commerce’s (MoC) intervention as a landmark victory for KCCI and the broader business sector. He criticized the arbitrary actions against KCCI that had rendered Pakistan’s largest chamber dysfunctional, arguing that such disruptions erode investor confidence and hinder economic growth. He emphasized that KCCI, under BMG’s leadership, has always been the strongest voice of the business community and remains dedicated to upholding its democratic governance.
Motiwala reaffirmed BMG’s unwavering dedication to business welfare, stating, “BMG has always championed the interests of traders, industrialists, and exporters through a transparent, inclusive, and service-oriented approach. KCCI’s role in promoting exports, facilitating trade, and advocating business-friendly policies will continue unabated.”
He also extended heartfelt gratitude to KCCI members and BMG supporters for their unwavering trust in the group during recent challenges. He particularly praised the resilience of the business community, acknowledging their collective efforts in upholding KCCI’s elected leadership.
KCCI’s Role in Economic Growth and Policy Advocacy
Speaking at the briefing, President KCCI Jawed Bilwani reiterated the chamber’s commitment to safeguarding business interests. “KCCI has always stood firm for the rights of traders, industrialists, and exporters. The chamber’s democratic foundation cannot be shaken by external influences,” he asserted.
Bilwani also outlined key challenges facing the business community, including excessive taxation, inconsistent economic policies, high energy costs, and an alarming cost of doing business. He called for strong policy reforms to bolster local industries, emphasizing that KCCI has consistently played a pivotal role in advocating for economic stability and growth.
Highlighting the importance of engaging KCCI in policy-making, Bilwani urged both federal and provincial governments to consult the chamber before implementing trade and industry policies. “No economic strategy can succeed without input from the business community. KCCI must be involved in shaping policies that directly impact trade and industry,” he stated. He further stressed the need for a stable regulatory environment to enable businesses to operate with clarity and confidence.
Secretary Commerce’s Order Ensures Stability at KCCI
The Secretary Commerce’s directive, issued on March 19, 2025, has temporarily suspended the DGTO’s order, ensuring that KCCI’s duly elected leadership remains intact until the next hearing on April 10, 2025. This decision has averted an administrative crisis at Pakistan’s most influential Chamber of Commerce, allowing KCCI to continue its crucial operations without disruption.
Both Motiwala and Bilwani assured the business community that KCCI will remain steadfast in its advocacy efforts. “We will strengthen our engagement with stakeholders across all sectors and work tirelessly to drive economic progress,” they vowed.
BMG and KCCI reaffirmed their joint mission to create a robust, business-friendly environment where Pakistan’s enterprises can thrive, compete globally, and contribute effectively to national economic growth.