LCCI delegation visits Gujranwala Business Center

Lahore:  In a key effort to enhance regional business relations and explore new collaborative opportunities, a delegation from the Lahore Chamber of Commerce and Industry (LCCI), led by its President Kashif Anwar, visited the Gujranwala Business Centre (GBC).

The LCCI delegation included Executive Committee Members Fareeha Younas, Raja Hassan Akhter, and Usman Nawaz. GBC, recognized as Pakistan's largest public sector organization, represents a consortium of 50 major companies based in Gujranwala. Over time, GBC has developed into a significant platform for businesses to promote their products, strengthen export potential, and capture a larger local market share. It plays a pivotal role in facilitating business transactions and driving economic growth within the region.

During the visit, LCCI President Kashif Anwar commended GBC's efforts to support local enterprises. He highlighted that the Lahore Chamber of Commerce and Industry boasts 40,000 active members and praised GBC's initiatives in bolstering the local economy.

He acknowledged the ongoing challenges businesses face, such as rising costs, a complicated tax structure, and inflation, but assured that LCCI is actively addressing these issues through various initiatives, including awareness sessions and agreements with hospitals, educational institutions, and others to provide better services to its members.

Kashif Anwar emphasized the importance of regional cooperation to achieve broader economic goals and reaffirmed LCCI’s dedication to supporting such ventures. He noted that the collaboration between LCCI and GBC would be crucial in unlocking new business opportunities and reshaping the region's economic landscape.

The LCCI President further stated that the Lahore Chamber is eager to use its extensive network and resources to help GBC expand its international reach. He pledged that LCCI would continue advocating for policies that promote trade and investment not only in Lahore but also across other industrial hubs like Gujranwala.

GBC Chairman Ahmad Ikram Rauf provided an in-depth overview of the center’s operations, shedding light on its strategic efforts to enhance Gujranwala's industrial capacity both nationally and internationally. He noted that GBC has become a hub for global business activity, successfully hosting over 25 international delegations in the past six months. These delegations have solidified existing business ties while opening new market opportunities for local companies, improving their export capabilities.

One of the key points discussed was GBC’s export growth. Chairman Rauf shared that GBC’s export strategy has already shown positive results, with products being exported to countries such as Sri Lanka, South Sudan, and Uganda. This international expansion demonstrates GBC’s commitment to driving economic growth and positioning Gujranwala as a key player in the global market.

Chairman Rauf also outlined GBC's future plans, stating that they are actively seeking new markets in Africa, Southeast Asia, and the Middle East. The success of GBC's export initiatives highlights the quality and competitiveness of Gujranwala's products, signaling continued growth in the coming years.

During the visit, the LCCI delegation toured various stalls showcasing products from Gujranwala’s leading manufacturers. These items, ranging from industrial goods to consumer products, reflected the diversity and strength of Gujranwala's industrial sector.

President Kashif Anwar expressed admiration for the cutting-edge facilities at GBC and the center’s professional support of local businesses. He acknowledged GBC’s crucial role in promoting exports and fostering an environment conducive to business growth and innovation.

Both organizations agreed to explore joint initiatives aimed at furthering business growth, expanding export opportunities, and addressing challenges faced by the business community.

Kashif Anwar expressed optimism that the collaboration between LCCI and GBC would bring considerable benefits to the business communities in both Lahore and Gujranwala, stressing that such partnerships are essential for driving economic progress and ensuring Pakistan’s competitiveness on the global stage.