In a pivotal moment for Karachi’s business community, Muhammad Jawed Bilwani has been elected as the new President of the Karachi Chamber of Commerce & Industry (KCCI) for the 2024-26 term.
The election results were announced at the 63rd Annual General Meeting held at KCCI’s auditorium, where Zia ul Arfeen was elected as Senior Vice President, and Faisal Khalil as Vice President. This transition marks a new phase in leadership, supported by the Businessmen Group (BMG), which has long held a dominant position within the KCCI.
Chairman of BMG, Zubair Motiwala, hailed the election as a triumph, stating that the overwhelming victory with an 82% margin reflects the enduring support of the business community for BMG. He emphasized the importance of continued leadership under BMG to resolve Karachi’s pressing issues, which include infrastructural challenges and economic pressures. Motiwala expressed his gratitude to BMG supporters, particularly small traders, and lauded the retiring office bearers for their commendable service during their tenure. Their efforts, especially in raising concerns to key governmental figures such as the Prime Minister and federal ministers, were instrumental in addressing the city’s economic difficulties.
The newly elected President, Jawed Bilwani, takes office during a critical period, where Karachi’s business community is grappling with economic uncertainties and the need for a more robust industrial framework. Bilwani, known for his proactive approach, is expected to prioritize issues such as regulatory reform, business-friendly policies, and enhanced market liquidity. He also vowed to continue fighting for the rights of the city’s business community, seeking maximum participation from the newly elected team and general members.
A key highlight of the AGM was the discussion around KCCI’s future initiatives, including a planned transformation toward a paperless administrative system, a project initiated by the retiring Senior Vice President. This shift is expected to improve operational efficiency within the chamber. Motiwala also introduced the concept of a dedicated think-tank at KCCI, consisting of experts in various fields, including energy, economics, and accountancy. This team is already engaged in formulating industrial policies for countries like Nigeria and Kenya, further demonstrating KCCI’s expanding influence beyond Pakistan.
Another ambitious project discussed was the establishment of KCCI’s own university, a suggestion put forth by Mian Abrar Ahmed. This initiative aims to enhance the educational infrastructure in Karachi, with the objective of aligning academic offerings with the needs of the industrial sector. KCCI is currently working with NUTECH University, governed by the Pakistan Army, to set up a campus in Karachi. The university’s focus on export-oriented education could potentially reshape the economic landscape of the region by fostering innovation and skilled labor tailored to industrial demands.
The AGM also paid homage to Late Siraj Kassam Teli, the founding Chairman of BMG, whose legacy continues to inspire KCCI’s leadership. Motiwala underscored Teli’s unwavering commitment to uplifting Karachi’s business community and credited him for laying the strong foundations of the Businessmen Group.
With Bilwani at the helm, KCCI is expected to continue advocating for the business community’s interests, particularly focusing on the needs of small traders, shopkeepers, and SMEs—the backbone of Pakistan’s economy. The newly elected leadership is tasked with steering KCCI toward a future of economic stability, growth, and sustained advocacy for the rights of Karachi’s entrepreneurs.
