Digital trade no longer an option but a necessity: Tahir Ayub

ISLAMABAD ( WNAM REPORT ): Acting President of the Islamabad Chamber of Commerce and Industry (ICCI), Tahir Ayub, has emphasized that digital commerce has emerged as one of the most powerful drivers of business growth, export diversification and global competitiveness, urging Pakistani entrepreneurs and SMEs to embrace e-commerce platforms to access international markets and accelerate the country’s export-led economic growth.
He expressed these views while addressing a “Sellers Onboarding Session in Collaboration with Alibaba.com Pakistan” organized by the Islamabad Chamber of Commerce and Industry.
Tahir Ayub said that the overwhelming response to the session reflected the growing awareness among the business community that the future of international trade lies in digital connectivity and online marketplaces. He noted that businesses that successfully adopt digital technologies would be better positioned to compete in the rapidly evolving global economy. He added that adopting e-commerce, investing in digital capabilities and embracing innovation would not only diversify export destinations but also enhance productivity, encourage entrepreneurship, generate employment and contribute to sustainable economic development.
He said the Islamabad Chamber of Commerce and Industry has been consistently working to equip its members with the knowledge, skills and market linkages required to succeed in the digital age. Through strategic collaborations, awareness programmes and capacity-building initiatives, ICCI is helping businesses adapt to emerging global trade trends and capitalize on new opportunities created by digital commerce.
Representatives of Alibaba.com Pakistan Muhammad Sadiq, Khawaja Arsalan, and Mr. Muhammad Maaz digitally highlighted the growing significance of digital B2B e-commerce platforms in today’s global trading environment. They provided participants with a comprehensive overview of Alibaba.com’s ecosystem, explained the seller onboarding process, and shared practical insights on creating a strong digital presence, reaching international buyers, generating export leads, and building sustainable global business through the platform.
Reaffirming ICCI’s commitment to promoting exports and digital transformation, ICCI Vice President Irfan Chaudhry said that the Chamber would continue collaborating with leading national and international organizations to facilitate businesses, strengthen Pakistan’s export ecosystem and create new avenues for economic growth. The session was moderated by ICCI senior member Aizaz Mohammad and attended by large number of entrepreneurs alongside ICCI Executive Members Ishaq Sial, Waseem Chaudhry, Ms.Shumaila Siddiqui, former Senior Vice President Khalid Chaudhry, ICCI members Ch. Muhammad Javed Iqbal, Abrar ul Haq, Chaudhry Mohammad Arshad , Ms. Uzma Sheeraz and many other.