Pakistan's ICCI Forms Joint Committee on PET Bottle and Plastic Bag Regulations

The decision was announced at a consultative meeting chaired by ICCI President Mohammad Zikria Akbar Zia, where business representatives discussed concerns regarding the implementation of environmental regulations and their potential impact on commercial activities. Participants called for a practical approach that balances environmental protection with the operational needs of businesses.

Pakistan's Business Community Calls for Clear Regulatory Guidelines

During the meeting, ICCI President Mohammad Zikria Akbar Zia highlighted the contribution of traders to economic activity, employment and government revenue. He expressed concern over reported raids, arrests and the sealing of business premises, emphasizing that enforcement without adequate consultation or reasonable prior notice could create difficulties and uncertainty for businesses.

He called on the relevant authorities to establish clear guidelines, improve coordination among departments and provide businesses with reasonable opportunities to address compliance issues before coercive measures are considered.

Zikria Akbar Zia also stressed that the business community was not opposed to environmental protection or compliance with applicable laws. However, he noted that regulatory implementation should take into account the practical requirements of different sectors, including grocery stores, dairy retailers, restaurants, wholesalers and beverage businesses.

Recycling and Phased Implementation Among Key Concerns

Participants emphasized the importance of strengthening recycling systems, raising public awareness and considering a phased transition towards alternative packaging materials. They noted that affordable alternatives and sufficient preparation time would be important for businesses adapting to restrictions on plastic shopping bags and other packaging materials.

Representatives from trade organizations and market associations also raised concerns about the availability and cost of alternatives, as well as the potential impact of abrupt enforcement measures on small retailers, restaurants, wholesale markets and businesses holding existing inventories.

The meeting highlighted the need for product-specific guidance, consistent enforcement and meaningful consultation between the authorities and affected industries to support practical implementation of environmental regulations in Pakistan.

ICCI Joint Committee to Engage with Government Authorities

The proposed joint committee will consolidate concerns and recommendations from traders and market associations and provide a coordinated platform for engagement with the relevant authorities.

ICCI Senior Vice President Mohammad Ashfaq Hussain Chattah said the meeting had been convened to hear traders' concerns and develop a collective strategy for addressing the issues. He emphasized that constructive engagement, rather than confrontation with government institutions, was essential to finding a practical solution.

ICCI Vice President Mohammad Waqas Khan Swati also stressed the importance of unity among traders and market associations. He called for coordinated communication with the authorities, consistent enforcement and meaningful consultation to help achieve a balanced outcome.

Other participants, including former ICCI President Sardar Tahir Mehmood, All Pakistan Anjuman-e-Tajran President Ajmal Baloch and Markazi Tanzeem-e-Tajran Pakistan President Kashif Chaudhry, expressed concerns about reported enforcement measures and their potential effects on businesses and livelihoods.

Participants called for improved recycling arrangements, sufficient preparation time and coordinated legal and administrative engagement where appropriate. ICCI indicated that consultations with senior government officials and other measures could be considered as part of its efforts to address the concerns raised.

Balancing Environmental Protection and Business Interests

The meeting concluded with a call for continued dialogue and cooperation between Pakistan's business community and the relevant authorities. Through the proposed joint committee, ICCI aims to present traders' concerns collectively and pursue a fair, transparent and practical resolution.

The discussions highlight the importance of aligning environmental objectives with workable regulatory implementation, taking into account the operational needs of businesses and the livelihoods of those affected.

The proposed committee represents a platform for further consultation; the meeting announcement does not establish that the relevant regulations have been suspended, withdrawn or formally amended.

Source: Islamabad Post — ICCI Forms Joint Committee to Address PET Bottles, Plastic Bag Regulations