ISLAMABAD: Former President of Islamabad Chamber of Commerce and Industry (ICCI) and Chairman of the Central Employers Federation of Pakistan, Mian Akram Farid, has expressed confidence that the newly elected ICCI leadership will play a vital role in addressing the mounting economic challenges confronting the business community in the capital.
Speaking at the oath-taking ceremony of newly elected ICCI President Sardar Tahir Mahmood, who was nominated by the Founder Group, Farid said the business sector is currently grappling with high interest rates, heavy taxation, rising utility bills, soaring raw material costs, and unresolved cases with CDA and other government departments. He also warned that the construction sector is under severe pressure due to excessive taxation, pushing the steel industry and over 40 allied industries to the brink of collapse.
Praising the leadership qualities of Sardar Tahir Mahmood, Farid described him as a “young and dynamic leader” with proven achievements in the real estate and construction sectors. He expressed hope that Mahmood’s experience would help resolve the serious economic difficulties faced by industrialists and traders of Islamabad.
Farid also congratulated newly elected Senior Vice President Tahir Ayub and Vice President Muhammad Irfan Chaudhry on assuming their responsibilities.
On the occasion, Founder Group Chairman Tariq Sadiq highlighted the group’s contributions over the past 35 years, stating that its presidents have consistently worked to resolve traders’ issues and enhance Pakistan’s exports by organizing international exhibitions in collaboration with foreign embassies.