Latest news with #MuhammadSaleemMemon
Business Recorder
19-05-2025
- Business
- Business Recorder
HCSTSI President welcomes development decisions of HDA
HYDERABAD: President Hyderabad Chamber of Small Traders & Small Industry (HCSTSI), Muhammad Saleem Memon, has welcomed the major development decisions taken during the recent 120th Governing Body meeting of the Hyderabad Development Authority (HDA), commending the leadership of Sindh Minister for Local Government, Saeed Ghani, HCSTSI President appreciated the swift approvals of development projects and financial allocations for Gulistan-e-Sarmast and other residential schemes, calling them a reflection of the Sindh Government's serious commitment to improving the urban infrastructure of Hyderabad. In a formal letter addressed to the Minister, the Chamber President Saleem Memon acknowledged the positive steps taken so far but emphasized the need for further practical and sustainable measures to ensure long-term benefits of these decisions. He strongly recommended that at least 70% of the revenue generated from Gulistan-e-Sarmast and other ongoing HDA schemes must be reinvested directly into their respective areas to promote self-sufficiency and continuous development. He highlighted the urgent necessity for establishing a dedicated grid station for Gulistan-e-Sarmast, in line with NEPRA policies, to ensure uninterrupted electricity supply. He also called for the immediate completion of the long-pending 36-inch water supply line, which has been delayed since 2009. Emphasis was laid on expediting internal road construction, drainage systems, and provision of water and electricity lines particularly in neglected sectors such as Kohsar Extension that have been deprived of basic amenities for decades. HCSTSI President further urged the launch of new schemes under the Annual Development Program (ADP) for water filtration and sewerage treatment plants in severely underserved areas, including Gulistan-e-Sarmast, Kohsar Zone, Bypass, and New Hyderabad City. He stressed need for complete revision of existing zoning strategies, proposing that each designated residential or commercial zone must be equipped with all basic utilities within a defined timeframe to prevent land misuse and speculation. He asserted this, would encourage legal occupancy and promote healthy commercial activity. Chamber President called on HDA to prioritize the completion of infrastructure work in pending schemes and to organize well-planned plot auctions thereafter. This would not only enhance the Authority's revenue but also help regain the lost market value of land. Expressing concern over the diminishing public trust in HDA due to years of neglect and unfulfilled commitments, he urged the Authority to take immediate and visible actions to restore public confidence through reliable service delivery. He also suggested outsourcing key development works to ensure quality and timely execution. Most significantly, HCSTSI President made a strong case for the inclusion of Hyderabad's business community especially representation from HCSTSI in the Governing Body meetings of HDA. He emphasized that direct participation would allow the ground realities, public grievances, and trade-related concerns to be effectively presented at the policy level, leading to more practical and people-centric urban planning. Concluding his remarks, he expressed hope that under the leadership of Saeed Ghani, the Local Government Department will continue to play a pivotal role in making Hyderabad's development more transparent, effective, and citizen-focused. He added that if the Chamber's recommendations are adopted in the next Governing Body meeting, Hyderabad will progress rapidly towards becoming a well-planned and modern city. Copyright Business Recorder, 2025
Business Recorder
15-05-2025
- Business
- Business Recorder
HCSTSI President spells out ‘core' reason behind narrow tax base
HYDERABAD: President Hyderabad Chamber of Small Traders & Small Industry (HCSTSI), Muhammad Saleem Memon, has said in a statement that the core reason behind Pakistan's narrow tax net and limited number of taxpayers is the lack of public and business community's trust in the government's utilization of tax revenues. He emphasized that unless people are assured of transparent and effective use of their paid taxes, there can be no significant improvement in voluntary tax compliance. He highlighted that despite billions of rupees being collected in taxes annually by various departments, the public and business sectors continue to suffer from a lack of basic civic amenities. Roads remain in poor condition, hospitals and schools are dilapidated, and municipal services are constantly declining. He pointed out that numerous reports, including those from the Auditor General of Pakistan, have consistently revealed massive financial irregularities and mismanagement in public funds, but no meaningful accountability has been ensured. HCSTSI President stressed that it is impossible to strengthen the tax system without restoring the confidence of the business community. Currently, traders feel that they are being forcefully taxed, yet their issues remain unresolved. He urged the federal and provincial governments to publish detailed annual expenditure reports alongside tax collection data, so that citizens can clearly see how and where their money is being spent. He said that if the government ensures the transparent use of public money, it would not only boost the confidence of current taxpayers but also motivate non-taxpayers to become part of the formal economy. He noted that Pakistan's tax-to-GDP ratio is lower than other regional countries such as Bangladesh and Sri Lanka, which reflects the public's deep mistrust in how tax revenues are managed. Drawing comparisons with developed nations, Memon stated that one of the key reasons behind their success is the public's trust in their tax systems. For instance, in Canada, each taxpayer receives an annual breakdown of where their taxes were spent. In Norway, citizens have access to detailed expenditures of any public project. South Korea's 'Taxpayer Bill of Rights' gives people full awareness and holds the government accountable. As a result, people in these countries willingly and confidently pay taxes. Copyright Business Recorder, 2025
Business Recorder
12-05-2025
- Business
- Business Recorder
HCSTSI pays tributes to Armed Forces
HYDERABAD: President Hyderabad Chamber of Small Traders & Small Industry (HCSTSI), Muhammad Saleem Memon, has paid rich tribute to the Pakistan Armed Forces, especially the courageous and highly professional pilots of the Pakistan Air Force, for their exceptional response during the recent escalation with India. Their swift and precise action not only safeguarded the nation but also earned global recognition for Pakistan's military excellence and aerial supremacy. He reiterated that war has never been Pakistan's first choice. As members of the business community, we have always advocated for peace, regional stability and mutually respectful relations with neighbouring countries, for it is only in such an environment that trade, growth, and prosperity can flourish. However, when aggression is imposed upon us, Pakistan reserves every right to respond decisively. Referring to the recent conflict, he noted that India used the April 22nd incident in Occupied Kashmir as a pretext to launch 'Operation Sandoor' on May 7th, targeting various regions within Pakistan. But by the grace of Almighty Allah and the iron-willed resolve of the Pakistan Armed Forces, Pakistan launched 'Operation Bunyan al-Marsis' in response neutralizing enemy Rafale jets, drones, and missile systems, and sending a clear message to the world: underestimating Pakistan is a grave miscalculation. HCSTSI President also extended his appreciation to Prime Minister Mian Shahbaz Sharif, Deputy Prime Minister Ishaq Dar, and the military leadership for their resolute and visionary strategy, which compelled India to seek a ceasefire through global intermediaries. The leadership's message was clear: Pakistan stands for peace, but with dignity and honour. He emphasized that the recent developments have highlighted the importance of not only a robust defense but also a stable economy and technological advancement for national resilience. 'This is the time for national renewal and commitment. Just as we stood united with our armed forces, we must now unite for the progress, self-reliance, and economic development of our beloved nation, setting aside all political and social differences,' he said. President paid heartfelt tribute to Dr. Abdul Qadeer Khan, the father of Pakistan's nuclear program, stating that the country's strategic capability under his leadership remains the strongest pillar of our national defense today. He further added that Pakistan's traders and industrialists have a vested interest in peace and stability, as these are essential for employment, investment, and national revenue. However, whenever the country faces threats, the business community stands firmly behind the Armed Forces like a frontline unit. Copyright Business Recorder, 2025
Business Recorder
05-05-2025
- Business
- Business Recorder
HCSTSI says concerned at FBR's ‘excessive' powers
HYDERABAD: President Hyderabad Chamber of Small Traders & Small Industry (HCSTSI), Muhammad Saleem Memon, has expressed grave concern over the excessive, unilateral and unbalanced powers granted to the Federal Board of Revenue (FBR) through the SRO and Ordinance issued on May 2, 2025. He stated that these amendments, although introduced under the guise of improving tax collection, could in reality open a new chapter of harassment and uncertainty for Pakistan's business community. The changes stand in contradiction to the principles of justice, due process, and economic freedom. Chamber President Saleem Memon pointed out that under the newly inserted Sections 138(3A) and 140(6A) of the Income Tax Ordinance, 2001, if a matter is adjudicated by a higher court, the tax liability will become immediately enforceable. FBR will then have the authority to freeze bank accounts and recover the dues without prior notice or legal proceedings. This is an alarming provision that undermines the constitutional and legal rights of taxpayers, depriving them of the opportunity to defend, appeal, or clarify violating fundamental principles of natural justice. He further highlighted that Section 175C grants FBR or the Chief Commissioner the authority to deploy officers at any business premises, including shops or factories, to monitor the production of goods, services, or stock. This, he stated, is a form of coercion and interference in business operations. The physical presence of tax officers will not only create a hostile environment but will also instil fear and mistrust among entrepreneurs, ultimately disrupting routine commercial activities. Expressing reservations about the amendments to the Federal Excise Act, 2005, Saleem Memon noted that while the criminalization of counterfeit stamps, barcodes, and labels may be justified in principle, it must also be recognized that in many cases, such errors can be unintentional caused by technical glitches, printing issues, or logistical challenges. Such unintended mistakes could easily be misused by officials as grounds for excessive action and harassment. The HCSTSI president also criticized the manner in which these sweeping changes were introduced. He lamented that the amendments were enforced immediately through Ordinance without parliamentary debate, stakeholder consultation, or committee review. This lack of democratic process and transparency is deeply disappointing and detrimental to the trust between the government and the business community. In light of these developments, Muhammad Saleem Memon made a strong appeal to the Prime Minister of Pakistan, the Federal Minister of Finance, and the Chairman of FBR to immediately review these amendments and establish clear guidelines to restrict the misuse of authority by FBR officials. He proposed the following key measures to restore balance and fairness: A minimum 15-day written notice must be mandatory before freezing any bank account to give the taxpayer an opportunity to clarify or respond. Deployment of tax officers in business premises should be subject to judicial approval to prevent arbitrary actions. An independent grievance redressal cell must be established to address business community complaints in a timely and transparent manner. No new regulations should be implemented without the prior consultation of stakeholders, particularly representatives of small traders and industries. He alarmed that ignoring the legitimate concerns of the business sector will severely erode confidence across the country, damaging not only the economic environment but also the government's own revenue collection targets. He added that instead of burdening existing taxpayers, the government should focus on expanding the tax net to include untaxed segments of the economy. Chamber President concluded by urging the federal government to reconsider these amendments urgently and revive the consultation process with the business community to build a fair, transparent and progressive economic environment in Pakistan. Copyright Business Recorder, 2025
Business Recorder
04-05-2025
- Business
- Business Recorder
HCSTSI urges to end power outages
HYDERABAD: Hyderabad Chamber of Small Traders & Small Industry (HCSTSI), President Muhammad Saleem Memon, has strongly criticized the non-serious and negligent behaviour of the HESCO Chief, stating that his failure to take corrective measures has caused significant harm to the commercial and industrial sectors of Hyderabad. He stated that the chamber has repeatedly issued official letters and reminders urging HESCO to put an end to the ongoing unannounced power outages in the SITE industrial area, but no serious action has been taken to date. This inaction clearly reflects HESCO's inefficiency and apathy. Saleem Memon further expressed deep regret that despite committing to meet the business community of Hyderabad, HESCO Chief has failed to honour his promises. Instead of engaging with the legitimate representatives of SITE industries, he is reportedly holding discussions with unauthorized individuals who have no legal standing or stake in the industrial zone. This is a highly unprofessional and unacceptable approach, which shows a complete disregard for the actual concerns of the business community and ignorance of the industrial sector's contribution to the economy. HCSTSI President highlighted that both scheduled and unscheduled power outages are occurring during peak business hours in SITE and other parts of the city. This has made it nearly impossible for traders to carry on their businesses, while industrialists are unable to complete their production orders on time, resulting in cancellations and severe blows to exports. He also raised serious concerns about the excessive electricity billing to SITE industries. These bills have crossed all reasonable limits, and regrettably, there is no responsible authority in HESCO willing to justify or clarify the inflated charges. This unjustified overbilling has caused widespread frustration and anger among industrialists and is a matter of grave condemnation. Moreover, due to persistent power outages, civic institutions such as Hyderabad Development Authority, WASA and other government departments are unable to perform routine operations, paralyzing normal urban life. Copyright Business Recorder, 2025
