FPCCI unveils shadow policy framework aimed at boosting national economy 

Lahore (Web Desk): The Federation of Pakistan Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FPCCI) has introduced Pakistan’s first-ever shadow policy papers, a development being described by business leaders as a major step towards building a clearer and more consistent economic strategy for the country.

The documents were formally unveiled during a ceremony in Lahore attended by leading figures from the business, economic and policymaking sectors.

The ceremony featured speeches by FPCCI President Atif Ikram Sheikh, former federal minister Gohar Ejaz and Ahmed Nawaz Sukhera, Chief Executive Officer of the Economic Policy and Business Development Think Tank. The speakers shared various proposals and priorities aimed at addressing economic difficulties and supporting sustainable national growth.

Speaking to media alongside FPCCI leaders, SM Tanveer, Patron-in-Chief of the United Business Group said that the organisation had prepared a complete economic framework for the first time, which includes tax reform proposals, an economic survey and a five-year development strategy.

He explained that the purpose of the initiative was to strengthen Pakistan’s economic foundations while also creating a more business-friendly and investment-oriented environment.

Speaking on the occasion, FPCCI President Atif Ikram Sheikh, while sharing the details of the proposed economic plan, said that the organization is no longer limiting itself to providing routine recommendations but is now offering a complete and structured economic framework.

He said the documents represented far more than a simple set of recommendations and should instead be viewed as a detailed economic roadmap.

Atif Ikram Sheikh acknowledged the government’s role in preparing budgets and shaping policy decisions and expressed hope that the proposed measures would eventually be implemented in practical form.

Ahmed Nawaz Sukhera noted that shadow policy papers were being introduced in Pakistan for the first time.

He said that expanding the private sector’s role could significantly strengthen economic growth and create employment opportunities. He also stressed the need for supportive tax measures and business-friendly policies to encourage commercial activity and investment.

Former federal minister Gohar Ejaz said Pakistan had already proven its diplomatic importance globally and now needed to establish itself as a strong economic force as well.

He stated that the recommendations had been developed with the aim of increasing prosperity and added that the country’s progress depended on contributions from every section of society.

Discussing the broader national situation, Gohar Ejaz said efforts were underway to maintain stability in the country and added that Pakistan’s international standing had improved. He further said the ideas discussed by stakeholders had now been transformed into formal policy documents.

He also revealed that the papers would be presented to the prime minister and the finance minister in an effort to move them towards implementation.

The former minister said that Pakistan had the potential to emerge as a genuine economic powerhouse if the private sector was placed at the centre of development strategies and provided with a supportive environment for growth.