Islamabad, April 30,2026: The Islamabad Chamber of Commerce and Industry (ICCI) has praised Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif for launching the “Apna Ghar Scheme (Ghar Ho Tu Apna),” describing it as a major initiative aimed at promoting affordable housing and revitalising the construction and real estate sectors.
ICCI President Sardar Tahir Mehmood, currently visiting China to strengthen bilateral business ties, said the scheme demonstrates the government’s commitment to facilitating home ownership for ordinary citizens while stimulating economic activity in allied industries.
He said such initiatives would encourage investment in the real estate sector, create employment opportunities and contribute to overall economic growth.
An ICCI delegation attended a ceremony held at the Prime Minister House, comprising Acting President Tahir Ayub, Vice President Irfan Chaudhry, Executive Member Zulqarnain Abbasi, and Chairman Real Estate Committee and Secretary Information IEAA Israr ul Haq Mashwani.
Before the ceremony, the delegation met Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif as part of ongoing consultations under the Prime Minister’s Task Force on Housing. ICCI noted that Sardar Tahir Mehmood is also a member of the task force and has actively contributed to policy discussions concerning challenges facing the real estate sector.
The chamber highlighted issues related to Floor Area Ratio (FAR) charges in Islamabad, stating that the existing structure has slowed construction activity, caused revenue losses for the Capital Development Authority (CDA), and discouraged vertical development projects in the capital.
During the meeting, Acting President Tahir Ayub also raised concerns regarding taxation policies, particularly Section 7E. According to ICCI, the prime minister assured the delegation that the government is considering abolishing the tax under Section 7E in the upcoming budget and may also provide relief under Sections 236K and 236C.
Sardar Tahir Mehmood termed the proposed measures encouraging for the business community and the real estate sector, expressing hope that they would help restore investor confidence and accelerate economic activity.
He reaffirmed ICCI’s commitment to supporting government initiatives aimed at promoting investment, economic growth and housing development while ensuring that the concerns of the business community are addressed effectively.
