ISLAMABAD: The Islamabad Chamber of Commerce and Industry (ICCI) has proposed the development of an Islamabad City Economic Competitiveness Index (ICEI) to assess the federal capital’s economic strengths, investment potential, infrastructure efficiency and overall business environment.
President Mohammad Zikria Akbar Zia proposed this during a meeting with local leaders of business community here on Wednesday. He said that Islamabad must move beyond conventional urban development and adopt a modern, data-driven economic framework to strengthen its position as a competitive investment destination.
He emphasised that the economic success of a city should be measured not merely by its physical infrastructure but by its ability to attract productive investment, promote industrial and commercial activities, create employment opportunities and facilitate sustainable business growth.
He suggested that the proposed index should evaluate key indicators, including ease of doing business, regulatory efficiency, investment facilitation, digital connectivity, transport and logistics, access to finance, skilled human resources and entrepreneurship. Such an initiative, he observed, could provide valuable guidance to policymakers and investors while helping Islamabad realise its untapped economic potential.
Senior Vice President ICCI, Mohammad Ashfaq Hussain Chatha proposed that the Islamabad City Economic Competitiveness Index should serve as a practical tool for identifying major challenges and recommending measurable solutions. He emphasised the importance of closer coordination among the Capital Development Authority, relevant government departments, regulatory institutions and business stakeholders to ensure timely facilitation of investors and entrepreneurs.
Vice President ICCI, Mohammad Waqas Khan Swati said that the federal capital possessed considerable potential to emerge as a centre for technology-driven enterprises, professional services, start-ups and knowledge-based economic activities.
He stressed that visiting foreign business delegations should be provided with reliable information about investment opportunities, potential joint ventures and suitable local business partners to encourage meaningful commercial cooperation and technology transfer.
Copyright Business Recorder, 2026
Comments