In a statement issued here Thursday the SCCI President lamented the fact that such an act has taken place without consultation of Model Customs Collectorates, Chief Collectors of Customs, export associations, trade bodies and other stakeholders eventually enhancing IOCO powers.

He said in case of issuance of this notification, imports and exports related powers of the Collectors would be drastically curtailed giving extraordinary powers to IOCO which will be detrimental for already depleted industry, facing power shortage and insecurity in the country.

He said that businessmen of Sialkot will be immensely affected by such move as it is an export based city.

Sheikh Abdul Majid, demanded of the concerned to take back the decision and to facilitate the already ailing export industry.