PESHAWAR: Speakers demand crucial changes to ‘KP Commerce and Trade Act 2021’
A meeting organized by the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Women Entrepreneurs Network advocated crucial changes to the KP Commerce and Trade Act 2021 and sought an easy-doing registration process with the Women Chambers of Commerce and Industry (WCCI) to benefit women-led businesses in the province.
The meeting held in Peshawar here on Tuesday emphasized the importance of empowering women entrepreneurs and fostering collaboration among key stakeholders, including government officials, private sector representatives, and the business community of the province.
The meeting aimed to strengthen women-led businesses across KP by promoting policy and legislative reforms.
Khalfan Ahmed Khattak, Program Manager at the Centre for Governance and Public Accountability (CGPA), emphasized the organization’s mission to foster greater inclusion of women in decision-making roles and business sectors, stressing that registering Women Chambers of Commerce is essential to institutionalize women’s representation in trade and commerce in the province.
KPWEN offers a platform for women business leaders to share experiences, voice challenges, and advocate for essential policy reforms that enhance women-led businesses through WCCIs, he added.
Ms Azra Jamshid, President of WCCI Peshawar, called on the government to introduce subsidized schemes for women entrepreneurs and improve coordination between chambers and relevant government departments.
Naeema Naz, President of WCCI Lower Dir, expressed concern over the challenges faced by district-level chambers. She urged the government to support women-led businesses by facilitating business expos to explore market opportunities.
Zahida Akhtar, President of WCCI Mardan, emphasized the need for policy support to promote small industries, calling for government-backed marketing initiatives.
Safia Naz, President of WCCI Charsada, urged the government to support women’s chambers through exhibitions and display booths at both the district and provincial levels.
Saima Rizwan, President of WCCI Abbottabad, highlighted issues related to license renewal, pointing out the delays in processing at the federal Directorate General of Trade Organizations (DGTO) office.
The Provincial Chief of SMEDA termed lengthy documentation and complex regulatory frameworks that hinder women’s businesses.
He urged the government to simplify regulations and increase opportunities for women in entrepreneurship education, skill development, and access to finance.
Ashfaq Masood, Commissioner Inland Revenue of the Federal Board of Revenue (FBR), outlined the regulatory procedures for business registration and returns filing. He urged women entrepreneurs to ensure that they complete the necessary documentation, including valid CNIC, registered mobile number to streamline the registration process.
Additionally, the Senior Vice President and Head of MSME (Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises) recommended the establishment of a Women Financial Services Department to assist women with financial planning and access to loans.
Mahvish Ayub, head of Strategy at NIC Peshawar, underscored the vital contribution of business incubation centers like NIC Peshawar in fostering entrepreneurship and innovation.
Ayub emphasized the center’s commitment to supporting startups through mentorship, access to resources, and capacity-building programs, with a particular focus on empowering women entrepreneurs.