Sialkot exporters visits LCCI; calls for stronger export cooperation, SME facilitation

LAHORE, (APP - UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News - 3rd Jun, 2026) A delegation of Sialkot exporters led by Sheikh Zohaib Rafiq former SVP of SCCI (Sialkot Chamber of Commerce and Industry) here Wednesday visited the Lahore Chamber of Commerce and Industry (LCCI).

The delegation held a detailed meeting LCCI President Faheem Ur Rehman Saigol, Senior Vice President Tanveer Ahmed Sheikh and Vice President Khurram Lodhi. The delegation included Adnan Yousaf, Muhammad Ashiq, Shehzad Ahmed, Muhammad Faisal and others.

During the meeting, President LCCI Faheem Ur Rehman Saigol said that Sialkot is playing a key role in Pakistan’s exports and national economy. He added that despite difficult economic conditions, the export sector continues to support the national economy.

He stressed the need for stronger coordination and cooperation between Lahore and Sialkot Chambers and said that joint efforts through an All Pakistan Chambers Conference should be made to resolve common business issues.

He also highlighted that Sialkot is the city of Allama Iqbal and an important hub of Pakistan’s industrial growth. He said that leading Fortune 500 companies prefer Sialkot for sourcing due to its strong industrial base.

The visiting delegation informed that Sialkot has skilled manpower, modern industrial units, and is exporting world-class sports goods across the globe.

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They added that local industries are also promoting the use of recycled materials and adopting environmentally friendly and sustainable production methods.

The delegation said that Sialkot’s export industry meets global compliance and quality standards and is the largest SME hub in Pakistan. They urged the government to provide more facilitation to the SME sector, noting that countries like China, Vietnam, and India have strongly supported SMEs, resulting in significant export growth.

They also highlighted that SMEs can drive innovation, employment, and exports if properly supported. Sialkot is also rapidly growing in the e-commerce sector.

The business community of Sialkot has also contributed to society by establishing hospitals, an airport, and educational institutions under corporate social responsibility.

The delegation emphasized that the Final Tax Regime (FTR) is vital for the SME sector and proposed a fix tax rate for turnover up to Rs 500 million, with a gradual increase beyond that level. They also called for urgent resolution of issues related to the Export Facilitation Scheme (EFS) and duty drawback.

Both Lahore Chamber and Sialkot business community agreed to continue joint efforts for the promotion of exports and resolution of business challenges.