The Federation of Pakistan Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FPCCI) has urged the federal government to immediately develop a strategy to shield Pakistan’s economy, trade, and industrial sector from the potential economic impact of renewed hostilities between the United States and Iran.
In a statement issued in Karachi, FPCCI President Atif Ikram Sheikh said escalating geopolitical tensions could disrupt regional stability, energy supply chains, and global trade, making it essential for Pakistan to adopt precautionary economic measures. The comments reflect the FPCCI’s assessment and recommendations.
FPCCI Warns of Economic Risks
Atif Ikram Sheikh said Pakistan’s economy has recently shown signs of stabilization through improved fiscal management but remains vulnerable to external shocks.
He warned that a rise in global oil prices or disruptions to maritime trade routes could increase inflation, raise import costs, and place additional pressure on export-oriented industries.
The FPCCI president called on the government to work closely with the business community to develop measures aimed at securing energy imports and protecting industrial production.
Concerns Over Supply Chains and Manufacturing
FPCCI Senior Vice President Saquib Fayyaz Magoon said any conflict in the Persian Gulf could significantly affect Pakistan’s supply chains by increasing freight costs and delaying shipments.
He noted that small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) are already facing high energy tariffs and borrowing costs, adding that further disruptions in raw material supplies or fuel prices could increase financial pressure on manufacturers.
Magoon urged the government to ensure uninterrupted access to industrial inputs while managing foreign exchange reserves effectively.
Karachi Industries Face Additional Challenges
FPCCI Vice President and Regional Chairman Sindh Abdul Mohamin Khan said Karachi’s role as Pakistan’s main port city makes it particularly vulnerable to disruptions in maritime trade.
He called for the establishment of fast-track business facilitation centers across districts and closer coordination between federal and provincial authorities to improve port operations and support exporters.
Proposal for Joint Economic Task Force
The FPCCI leadership has proposed that the Ministry of Finance, Ministry of Commerce, Federal Board of Revenue (FBR), and the State Bank of Pakistan (SBP) establish a joint task force with representatives of the business community.
According to the business body, the proposed task force would monitor geopolitical developments, assess potential risks, and develop contingency measures to maintain trade continuity and reduce the impact of external economic shocks on Pakistan’s economy.
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