ISLAMABAD, JUL 12 /DNA/ – In a statement regarding the Finance Act, President of FPCCI, Atif Ikram Sheikh, said that they do not wish to create any difficulties in the current situation. He urged the business community across the country to demonstrate unity and immediately refrain from any form of protest. The Minister of State for Finance will hold monthly meetings at FPCCI to address the issues of the business community, follow up on previous meetings, and will be accompanied by officers from various relevant institutions.

In a video statement, he said that during the meeting held at the Federation with the Minister of State for Finance, stakeholders expressed strong reservations about the controversial clauses. The business community has concerns regarding Sections 30A, 8B, and 40B of the Sales Tax Act, and Section 21S of the Income Tax Ordinance. Minister of State for Finance, Bilal Azhar Kayani, and his team have assured that the business community’s concerns will be addressed. He mentioned that the Minister of State has requested time until Tuesday to consider the controversial clauses and address the business community’s concerns.He expressed hope that the government would amicably resolve the issue, stating that every problem is resolved through negotiations, and the path of dialogue should be adopted.

Atif Ikram Sheikh stated that the country’s economy is improving, and the business community’s confidence has been restored. He emphasized that the atmosphere of fear among people should end, and they do not want to create any difficulties in the current circumstances. He reiterated his call for the business community nationwide to show unity and immediately avoid any form of protest.

The Federation of Pakistan Chambers of Commerce & Industry (FPCCI) is playing its role in the matter. If the government does not resolve the issues within a week, the Federation will announce its future course of action after consultation.