SCCI raises concerns over KP govt’s business decisions

PESHAWAR: Sarhad Chamber of Commerce and Industry President Fazal Moqeem Khan has said the government needs to achieve tax targets and enhance revenue which could only be met through collecting various taxes by the business community.

Moqeem in a statement issued here on Saturday said hurting business and trade is tantamount to inflicting loss to the economy.

Therefore, he emphasised that the government should take collective initiatives and resolve all issues by making proper consultation and mutual consensus to continue business.

The SCCI chief mentioned that yesterday, an action was taken against a restaurant, calling it an attempt to discourage investors and the business community and urged them to avoid taking such steps that would damage business and economic activities.

He stressed it is a dire need of the hour that there should understand the current economic conditions and prevailing circumstances.

Moqeem emphasised the need of building consensus from both sides on the issue.

Under the collective approach, government duty is to inform private stakeholders, if any action is below the law, so the business community should take into confidence through positive collaboration, the SCCI chief added.

He continued to say that instead of taking harsh measures, strict implementation, closure of business and economic activities, provide a relocation chance to the business community.

Moqeem added that the chamber, business community and stakeholders should be consulted before taking any such initiatives to prevent from creating any gulf between government, institutions and business community so that they should continue to play a role in economic development through paying various taxes.

The SCCI chief demanded the officials who had given NOC for establishment of the restaurant 25 years ago, must be brought to justice.

Businessman Forum leader Ghazanfar Bilour demanded of the provincial government to consider the chamber recommendations seriously and provide justice to the affected trader.