FGP, ICSTSI leadership discuss reforms to support small businesses

ISLAMABAD, (APP - UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News - 25th May, 2026) Freedom Gate Prosperity (FGP) and the Islamabad Chamber of Small Traders and Small Industries (ICSTSI) have emphasized the need for practical reforms to support small traders and promote entrepreneurship in Pakistan.

The discussion took place during a meeting between President of ICSTSI,

Awais Satti and Muhammad Anwar at the FGP office in Islamabad. Other FGP members who attended the meeting included Shafqat Aziz and Dr. Shahbaz Tariq.

The participants discussed the daily challenges faced by small traders, micro-enterprises, startups, and young entrepreneurs, as well as the need for a more business-friendly environment.

Speaking on the occasion, Awais Satti said small traders and small industries are the backbone of Pakistan’s local economy, supporting thousands of families across the country.

The meeting also highlighted the difficulties faced by young people and women seeking to establish small businesses.

Muhammad Anwar stressed the need to move towards a facilitation-based economic model.

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He emphasized that small businesses generate employment, circulate local wealth, and strengthen communities.

“Pakistan’s small traders and entrepreneurs need dignity, trust, and facilitation,” he said.

The meeting also reviewed the implementation of Point of Sale (POS) systems for small retailers. Participants agreed that while digitalization is important, it should be introduced according to the size, turnover, capacity, and digital readiness of each business.

Dr. Shahbaz Tariq emphasized that business reforms should be based on credible data, economic analysis, and direct feedback from traders, while Shafqat Aziz highlighted the importance of public dialogue and clear communication to strengthen trust among traders, policymakers, and citizens.

The meeting concluded with a shared commitment to continue dialogue, develop practical policy recommendations, and promote a more transparent, predictable, and entrepreneur-friendly business environment in Pakistan.