Amendments to Trade Organisation Rules rejected

LAHORE: The Regional Chairman and Vice President of the Federation of Pakistan Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FPCCI), Zaki Aijaz; Chairman UBG Punjab, Aamir Atta Bajwa and presidents of various chambers, while addressing a joint press conference at the FPCCI Regional Office Lahore on the subject of “Amendments to the Trade Organization Rules—Proposed Legislation,” categorically rejected the proposed amendments.

They clarified that FPCCI demands that the bill should not be passed in its present form and that immediate, comprehensive, and meaningful consultation with all stakeholders must be carried out. They emphasized that separate and effective representation of District Chambers, Women Chambers, and small traders must be ensured at all costs, as Pakistan’s economy is not driven solely by major cities but by every district, every market, every industrial unit, and every woman entrepreneur. Weakening representation will ultimately weaken the economy.

They further noted that the proposed amendment to the Trade Organization Rules 2013 has caused serious concern across the country’s business community. This is not just an administrative change; it is a structural change that could disrupt the entire system of business representation.

Under the 2013 Rules, District Chambers have legal status, Women Chambers enjoy a separate identity, small traders have their own voice, and every city, district, and sector is represented.

However, the proposed changes are steering the system toward a “city-based model,” raising concerns that certain elements seek to establish monopolies for personal gain.

Copyright Business Recorder, 2026