Karachi, January 19, 2026: Hanif Gohar, Former Senior Vice President of the Federation of Pakistan Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FPCCI), Former Chairman of the Association of Builders and Developers of Pakistan (ABAD), and Secretary General of United Business Group (UBG) Southern Zone, has fully endorsed the stance of S.M. Tanveer, Patron-in-Chief of the United Business Group (UBG), regarding the national economy. He demanded that the government restore the confidence of industrialists by implementing the recommendations put forward by S.M. Tanveer.
Hanif Gohar stated that the national economy needs to be stabilized on a permanent and sustainable basis rather than relying on temporary crutches. Mere cosmetic measures cannot create an impression of progress. He clarified that installing colorful lights at intersections and roundabouts is not a symbol of development; real progress depends on the survival of industries, an increase in production capacity, and the promotion of exports.
He further emphasized that the country's economy is currently practically on a ventilator, and there is an urgent need to immediately take it off life support and place it on the path of sustainable and genuine development. Until the fundamental issues facing the industrial sector are resolved, economic stability will remain nothing more than a dream.
He pointed out that the biggest problem currently confronting industries in the country is the high cost of electricity and gas, which is increasing production costs and causing local industries to lose their competitiveness in the global market. He argued that if the government truly wants to stabilize the economy, it must ensure the provision of affordable and uninterrupted electricity to industries.
Hanif Gohar stressed that continuity in policies for the industrial sector, simplification of the tax system, and the creation of a business-friendly environment are essential. He added that unless facilities are provided to industrialists, neither new investments will come nor will any significant increase in exports be possible.
The former Vice President of FPCCI stated that exports serve as the backbone of any country & economy, but unfortunately, exporters in Pakistan are facing difficulties on multiple fronts. He urged the government to formulate practical and long-lasting policies through consultation with the industrial and export sectors.
In conclusion, Hanif Gohar said that if industries thrive, employment opportunities will be created, tax revenue will increase, and the national economy will truly progress. Otherwise, cosmetic measures will only make the problems more complicated.
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