In a significant meeting held at the Islamabad Chamber of Commerce and Industry (ICCI), the Presidents of various market associations gathered to prioritize development for trade growth. The leaders highlighted that such efforts are crucial to facilitate the smooth growth of trade activities in the capital.
Meeting Held to Prioritize Development for Trade Growth

Ahsan Zafar Bakhtawari, President of the Islamabad Chamber of Commerce and Industry, addressed the office bearers of market associations, underlining the substantial financial contributions traders make through various taxes to the CDA. Bakhtawari emphasized that, as a result, it is the civic body’s responsibility to modernize markets and create an environment conducive to the unhindered expansion of trade activities.
He further revealed that, through concerted efforts with the ICCI, the CDA has already allocated spaces in different markets for the installation of filtration plants. Bakhtawari assured the attendees that the ICCI will continue to advocate for the development and enhancement of market infrastructure, fostering a collaborative relationship with the CDA.
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Additionally, Bakhtawari announced plans for a winter festival in Islamabad, to be organized in collaboration with market associations. He expressed hope that all markets would actively participate, ensuring the success of the festival and promoting a sense of community among traders.
Engineer Azhar ul Islam Zafar, Vice President of ICCI, stressed the importance of unity among traders in addressing their common issues. He pledged the ICCI’s commitment to continue advocating for the causes that impact the business community, underscoring the need for a collective approach.
Khalid Iqbal Malik, Group Leader of ICCI, highlighted the business community’s pivotal role as the main stakeholder in CDA’s revenue generation. Malik asserted that the CDA should reciprocate by prioritizing the comprehensive development of all markets.
Zafar Bakhtawari, former President and Secretary General of UBG Pakistan, commended Ahsan Zafar Bakhtawari’s efforts in addressing the key concerns of the business community. He assured attendees that he would continue working closely with the CDA to initiate essential development projects in the markets.
Final Words
The united front presented by the Presidents of market associations at this meeting reflects a shared commitment to the advancement of trade activities in Islamabad, with a focus on collaborative efforts with the CDA to bring about positive changes in market infrastructure and amenities.