Islamabad: A delegation from the Federation of Pakistan Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FPCCI) met with Federal Minister for Commerce, Jam Kamal Khan, to discuss aligning the FPCCI’s election cycle with other trade organizations. The meeting, also attended by the Director General of Trade Organizations, Bilal Khan Pasha, included representatives from various trade bodies who joined online.

According to a statement by Press Information Department, FPCCI representatives emphasized the need to maintain a two-year mandate for office bearers, starting in 2026, to ensure uniformity. They highlighted that the election amendment package, prepared in 2022, has led to inconsistencies in election cycles due to some members serving extended terms.

The Trade Organizations (Amendment) Act currently mandates FPCCI elections this year, though Section 3, Subsection 9, could allow for a deferral. FPCCI members argued for synchronized elections across business and trade bodies to improve governance.

The delegation expressed concerns about not being consulted during the amendment process, despite its impact on trade organizations. However, it was noted that consultations occurred in 2021 and 2022, with collective support for the changes that passed in 2025.

Commerce Minister Jam Kamal Khan called for consensus among stakeholders and proposed forming a committee to devise an agreeable mechanism. “Take the day to firm up your options, and we will assess whether the matter should be taken to the Cabinet,” he stated.

The discussions underscore the business community’s concerns over policy continuity and election regulation, with stakeholders awaiting the committee’s recommendations for future actions.