Islamabad, May 23, 2026: President of the Islamabad Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Sardar Tahir Mahmood, has stressed that comprehensive business-friendly policy reforms are essential to improve ease of doing business, attract investment, and place the national economy on a sustainable growth path.
Addressing a delegation of traders at the Chamber House on Saturday, he said Pakistan possesses immense economic potential, but unnecessary regulatory hurdles, a complex taxation system, inconsistent policies, and bureaucratic obstacles are negatively affecting business activities and discouraging investors.
Sardar Tahir Mahmood emphasized that the government should introduce long-term and consistent economic policies to restore the confidence of the business community. He said simplifying the tax system, reducing the cost of doing business, digitizing government procedures, and ensuring transparency in regulatory mechanisms are the need of the hour.
He particularly underscored the importance of establishing an effective “one-window operation” system to facilitate businesses and investors. He noted that investors often face difficulties due to the involvement of multiple departments and lengthy approval procedures, which increase costs and delay business operations. A centralized one-window facility, he added, would significantly improve efficiency, reduce red tape, and encourage both local and foreign investment.
The ICCI president further stated that the private sector plays a key role in economic growth, export enhancement, and job creation. Therefore, facilitating businesses should be treated as a top national priority. He added that policy continuity and investor-friendly reforms would not only strengthen local industries but also help attract foreign direct investment.
Sardar Tahir Mahmood also highlighted the importance of public-private sector collaboration in formulating practical economic policies. He said chambers of commerce and trade bodies should be actively consulted before introducing major financial and regulatory decisions to ensure that policies remain realistic and growth-oriented.
He said improving the ease of doing business would enhance Pakistan’s global competitiveness, boost exports, create employment opportunities, and strengthen economic stability. He expressed hope that the government would take meaningful measures in upcoming policy frameworks to address the genuine concerns of the business community and create a conducive environment for investment and entrepreneurship.
Reaffirming the chamber’s commitment, he said the Islamabad Chamber of Commerce and Industry would continue to play an active role in highlighting issues faced by the business community and presenting constructive proposals for sustainable economic growth.
