KARACHI: The Korangi Association of Trade and Industry (KATI) has officially announced its full support for the Businessmen Group (BMG) in the upcoming elections for the Karachi Chamber of Commerce & Industry (KCCI). This support was declared by KATI President Muhammad Ikram Rajput, who emphasized the significant initiatives undertaken by BMG Chairman Zubair Motiwala and Karachi Chamber President Rehan Hanif. Rajput underscored the essential role of unity within industrial associations and trade bodies to effectively address the challenges faced by the business community.

According to Korangi Association of Trade and Industry, Rajput highlighted the achievements of the Karachi Chamber, particularly in advocating for the rights of shopkeepers and traders impacted by the Gul Plaza incident. He stressed the importance of solidarity among the business community to persuade government and regulatory bodies to prioritize resolving their issues. The collaboration between KATI and the Karachi Chamber has already led the government to instruct the Federal Board of Revenue Chairman to conduct monthly meetings in Karachi, aimed at addressing traders' concerns.

Deputy Patron-in-Chief Zubair Chhaya acknowledged the historical support for BMG by all seven town associations of Karachi, emphasizing that such unity strengthens the voice of the business community. He noted that the late S.M. Muneer, a former KATI Patron-in-Chief, played a pivotal role in establishing BMG. Chhaya advocated for joint efforts among industrial associations to secure Karachi's rights through collective endeavors.

Zubair Motiwala, Chairman of BMG, called for maximum participation from KATI members in the elections to demonstrate robust support for the Karachi Chamber's leadership. He emphasized the significance of the Karachi Chamber as the eighth-largest globally and the need for a powerful collective voice from the business sector. Motiwala announced plans to reactivate the Karachi Industrial Forum post-elections to further strengthen industrial advocacy.

Karachi Chamber President Rehan Hanif praised KATI President Ikram Rajput for his contributions to economic improvement in the Korangi industrial area, highlighting the government's allocation of Rs9.2 billion for development projects. The event also saw addresses from KITE Limited Chairman Zahid Saeed, KATI Senior Vice President Zahid Hameed, and other notable figures within the business community, expressing their support for BMG's platform in the upcoming elections.