PBF supports SM Tanveer’s candidature for FPCCI presidency

The Pakistan Business Forum (PBF) has backed industrialist SM Tanveer in the contest for the top post at the Federation of Pakistan Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FPCCI), according to Business Recorder. The endorsement, for the 2027 to 2028 term, was made public by PBF president Khawaja Mehboobur Rehman together with several office bearers and provincial chairmen.

The forum described the business and industrial sectors as facing an unusually tough phase, citing steep business costs, costlier energy and mounting spending. It also voiced concern about the arrests of businesspeople, which it said had further weakened business confidence. In the forum's view, the community needs credible, independent leadership able to press its case with the federal government firmly yet constructively.

The forum said the FPCCI, the leading umbrella body for chambers, must take a proactive role during the 2027 to 2028 term. It should present an accurate picture of issues such as energy tariffs, operating costs and regulatory hurdles. PBF added that the next president must be able to deal with the government as an equal and push for reforms rather than letting problems stay unresolved. The forum hopes his candidacy will give more weight to private sector concerns and promote the wellbeing of traders, exporters and entrepreneurs.