ISLAMABAD ( WNAM REPORT ): Owners of prominent and reputable brands operating in various sectors of Islamabad and Rawalpindi have stated that stable brands emerging from the private sector’s hard work, integrity, and long-term investment do not receive institutional protection in Pakistan. Government officials from various departments often seal businesses over minor administrative or technical issues, which not only severely damages their reputation but also affects investment and business continuity.
These views were expressed during a dinner reception hosted in honor of Zafar Bakhtawari, Secretary General of the United Business Group (FPCCI). The event was attended by notable business figures including Ahsan Zafar Bakhtawari (D. Watson), Tariq Mehmood (Shaheen), Chaudhry Tahir Mehmood (Punjab), Nauman Khan (Gillani), Dr. Rizwan Opal (IDC), Hamza Ali Khan (Christie’s), Roohail Anwar Butt (Shikarpuri), Junaid Ahmed (Tandoori), Luqman Ali Afzal (Monal), Shamsuddin Sultan (Shams), Habibullah Zahid (Habibi), Umar Farooq (Cheezious), Usman Shehzad (Rep Lab), Umar Akmal (Friends), and Hafiz Manzoor (Madina), among other distinguished entrepreneurs.
Speaking at the event, Zafar Bakhtawari said, “We fully believe in the rule of law, but we also believe that any action against a credible, renowned, and diligently built brand must be preceded by thorough investigation, prior notice, and a transparent process.” He stressed that government must review the unchecked powers of public officials.
He added, “No brand is built in hours or days; it is the result of years of struggle and billions in investment. Our brands are national assets. Any action against them must be approved at a high level, follow a transparent process, and include consultation with brand owners.”
Ahsan Bakhtawari emphasized that if Pakistan aims to stand among developed nations, it must treat its brands as national assets. “Unfortunately, businesspeople are often viewed with suspicion, even though they are the backbone of employment, taxation, and economic growth,” he said.
He further stated that brands are a source of national pride, and any unnecessary or baseless action against them harms the country’s business reputation. “We need a balanced and respectful system. A successful brand is the result of years of hard work, investment, and consistency. Targeting such brands on arbitrary grounds undermines business confidence and damages the national economy.”
Luqman Ali Afzal noted, “We have introduced Pakistan’s name to the world, and now we are seeking protection from our own institutions. We have raised the hospitality industry to international standards. If we are treated with interrogation rather than respect and partnership, who will invest here? We need protection and trust, not humiliation.”
Roohail Anwar Butt remarked, “Our products are used by the general public. Shutting down businesses without notice over minor objections directly harms our business credibility.”
Other business owners echoed the call for the government to engage with them in dialogue and assured full cooperation in resolving such issues collaboratively.
