Latest news with #ShabbirMerchant
Khaleej Times
4 days ago
- Business
- Khaleej Times
Empowering Pakistani entrepreneurs: PBC Dubai boosts UAE business ties
Shabbir Merchant, Chairman, Pakistan Business Council (PBC) Dubai, said the council plays a significant role in supporting and empowering Pakistani businessmen in the UAE as it provides a trusted platform for networking, knowledge-sharing, and collaboration among entrepreneurs and professionals. In an exclusive interview on the eve of Pakistan Independence Day, Merchant said the PBC-Dubai connects members with potential partners, investors, and key decision-makers through regular events, seminars, and business forums. The council also advocates on behalf of its members, representing their concerns and interests with local authorities and business chambers. 'The council offers valuable guidance on company formation, UAE regulations, and market entry strategies, especially for newcomers. It actively promotes bilateral trade between Pakistan and the UAE, encouraging joint ventures and business delegations,' Merchant told Khaleej Times. 'By fostering community engagement, encouraging professional growth, and promoting a positive image of Pakistan, the council serves as a bridge between the Pakistani business diaspora and the wider UAE market. Its efforts continue to enhance visibility, credibility, and opportunities for Pakistani businesses in the region,' he added. Strategic Vision As Chairman of PBC-Dubai, my strategic vision focuses on building strong, result-oriented bridges between Pakistan and the UAE to boost trade and investment. This includes creating more structured opportunities for B2B engagement through trade delegations, industry-specific forums, and joint exhibitions, according to Merchant. 'We aim to promote sectors where Pakistan has a competitive edge — such as textiles, IT, agriculture, and skilled manpower — while also encouraging UAE investment in Pakistan's infrastructure, energy, and tourism sectors. Strengthening collaboration with UAE government entities, free zones, and chambers of commerce is key to easing market entry and regulatory understanding for our members. 'We have also signed Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs) with various chambers of commerce in Pakistan to facilitate closer cooperation, information exchange, and mutual support for business expansion,' he said. Merchant said PBC-Dubai is keen to modernise trade practices by promoting digital transformation, encouraging e-commerce, and supporting the adoption of smart business solutions. 'Through partnerships, training, and access to market insights, we help members stay competitive and aligned with global economic trends,' he said. In reply to a question, he said PBC-Dubai is committed to empowering startups and SMEs by providing mentorship, networking opportunities, and access to relevant market information. 'We organise workshops, training sessions, and business forums tailored to the needs of emerging entrepreneurs. By connecting SMEs with investors, advisors, and potential partners, we help them scale and explore cross-border opportunities. We also collaborate with chambers and free zones to simplify business setup processes and promote bilateral economic collaboration between Pakistan and the UAE,' he said. Merchant, an industry veteran, is clear about his vision to promote PBC-Dubai as a trusted platform for Pakistani businessmen and increase their role in development of the country's economic growth by connecting them to global businesses and investors. 'We are prioritising targeted outreach campaigns, sector-focused networking events, and collaborations with community organizations to expand PBC Dubai's membership. By showcasing success stories and the benefits of joining the council, we aim to attract more professionals and entrepreneurs. 'We're also launching initiatives to engage youth and second-generation Pakistanis, encouraging their active participation in business and trade,' he said. To further strengthen global connectivity, Merchant said PBC-Dubai is launching a dedicated mobile application in September that will feature tools to connect Pakistani businesses across the world. 'Additionally, our newly revamped PBC website is designed to reach a wider audience and serve as a more effective platform for communication, engagement, and business promotion. These initiatives are part of our broader vision to mobilise the Pakistani diaspora as a key driver of economic growth and bilateral collaboration,' he said. B2B, B2G Connections Merchant said PBC Dubai leverages its platform to foster both B2B and B2G connections by acting as a bridge between the Pakistani business community and key stakeholders in the UAE and Pakistan. 'We actively engage with government bodies, trade authorities, and chambers to represent the economic interests of our members. Notably, we hosted high-level business networking events with Jam Kamal Khan, Federal Minister, and Ahsan Iqbal, Federal Minister of Planning, Development, and Special Initiatives, providing members direct access to policymakers.' 'Our ongoing collaboration with Dubai Chambers has further enhanced institutional ties, creating opportunities for dialogue and trade facilitation. During our recent visit to Pakistan, we signed multiple MoUs with leading chambers of commerce, strengthening our commitment to bilateral cooperation and opening new channels for investment and trade. Through these initiatives, PBC Dubai continues to position itself as a key enabler of strategic B2B and B2G engagement to advance Pakistan's economic footprint in the UAE,' he said. To a question about balancing the council's focus on economic growth with its efforts to strengthen cultural and social ties between Pakistan and the UAE, he said: 'We believe economic growth and cultural connection go hand in hand. At PBC Dubai, we strive to maintain this balance by organizing events that celebrate Pakistan's heritage while also creating business value. Whether it's Independence Day celebrations, sports tournaments, or community forums, we integrate cultural engagement with networking opportunities. These events not only foster unity within the diaspora but also enhance Pakistan's soft image in the UAE.' 'By involving professionals, families, and youth, we ensure that our initiatives contribute to both economic development and strong, lasting social ties between the two nations,' he said. Merchant said the outlook for Pakistan's economy shows cautious optimism, with signs of stabilisation supported by reforms, increased remittances, and improved investor confidence. Key sectors expected to drive growth this year include agriculture, which is rebounding due to better crop yields and government support; information technology and digital services, benefiting from global demand and a strong youth talent pool; and exports, especially in textiles, which remain a backbone of the economy. 'Additionally, construction, logistics, and renewable energy sectors are likely to see momentum with public-private partnerships and foreign investment. With sustained policy reforms and political stability, these sectors can contribute significantly to economic recovery and long-term growth,' Merchant concluded.
Khaleej Times
26-06-2025
- Business
- Khaleej Times
Pakistan Business Council Dubai hosts successful annual general body meeting
Pakistan Business Council (PBC) Dubai hosted its Annual General Body Meeting (AGM) 2025 to highlight the Council's achievements during the year, its valuable contributions to the community, and the roadmap for future initiatives. The AGM, which was held under the chairmanship of Shabbir Merchant at a local hotel in Dubai, saw a large gathering of prominent members from the Pakistani business community who exchanged views during the traditional networking session. It commenced with recitation of the Holy Quran and followed by the national anthems of the United Arab Emirates and Pakistan. Chairman of PBC Dubai, Shabbir Merchant, formally opened the meeting by welcoming all esteemed guests and members. He highlighted the Council's major milestones achieved during the year and presented the future plans to strengthen PBC Dubai as a representative of the Pakistani community in the UAE. 'Today's AGM marks not just a review of our achievements, but a reaffirmation of our shared vision for progress. At Pakistan Business Council, we are proud of the strides we've made in fostering business collaboration, promoting Pakistani interests globally, and supporting our members through strategic initiatives. Together, we will continue to elevate our impact and drive meaningful change," Merchant said. The chairman also outlined a forward-looking vision, focusing on modernising trade practices and empowering the Pakistan business community to strengthen UAE-Pakistan economic ties. Vice-Chairman Kamran Ahmad Riaz presented a detailed report on the Council's general activities launched in 2025 and noted active participation of the business community. Vice-Chairman Events & Media, Iftikhar Ali Tatlah delivered a comprehensive overview of events, media presence, the official website, YouTube channel, and newsletters. In his remarks, Iftikhar Ali Tatlah emphasised that the media platform of Pakistan Business Council Dubai is more than just an information source as it represents the passion, professionalism, and deep connection of the community with Pakistan. He further announced that a grand gala dinner and awards show will be held at the end of 2025, recognising and celebrating the contributions of Council members and partners. Vice-Chairman Finance Mr. Noor Kareem Afridi presented the annual financial report, highlighting the Council's transparent financial practices and fiscal performance during the year. Secretary-General Khurram Khawaja introduced the new features of the Council's mobile application, outlining the modern digital services, membership tools, and enhancements made available to members. The meeting also included an interactive Q&A session, where members offered suggestions, raised queries, and shared their perspectives, all of which were appreciated and taken into serious consideration by the board. Distinguished figures from the Pakistani business community who attended the event included Muhammad Iqbal Dawood, Mustafa Hemani, Rashid Ashraf, Abdul Rasheed Chughtai, Saleem Tabani, Iqbal Tabani, Sultan Mahmood, Ejaz Ahmed, Muhammad Naeem, Irfan Ahmad Riaz, Mustafa Altaf, Makhdoom Raees Qureshi, Ashraf Gul, Ali Rao, Nafees Ahmad, Aziz Ali Akbar, Tabish Zaidi, Syed Saleem Akhtar, Muhammad Shoaib, Shazil Merchant, and Sohail Amir Ghumman, among others. Among the distinguished women members in attendance were Anam Baqai, Sadia Abbasi, and Hina Naeem, among others. Newly inducted members were formally welcomed and awarded official membership certificates. These included Tahir Naqash, Muhammad Ali Abdul Ghaffar, Khizr Mehdi, Muhammad Nauman Khan, Abdul Raheem, Shafiq Hussain, Muhammad Ali Nagi, and Naveed Mushtaq. The event concluded with a dinner, offering guests an opportunity for meaningful dialogue and fostering stronger business and community ties. The annual general body meeting 2025 of Pakistan Business Council Dubai was not merely a formal gathering — it stood as a testament to the unity, progress, and unwavering commitment of the Pakistani business community in the UAE.
Business Recorder
22-04-2025
- Business
- Business Recorder
KCCI, PBC Dubai sign MoU
KARACHI: In a significant move to strengthen economic ties between Pakistan and the United Arab Emirates, the Karachi Chamber of Commerce & Industry (KCCI) and the Pakistan Business Council (PBC) Dubai signed a landmark Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on Monday which has been designed to foster robust bilateral cooperation in trade, investment, and economic collaboration by establishing strategic linkages between the business communities of Karachi and Dubai. The MoU was formally signed by President KCCI, Muhammad Jawed Bilwani, and Chairman PBC Dubai, Shabbir Merchant, during a high-level meeting held at the KCCI premises. The signing ceremony was attended by Senior Vice President KCCI Zia ul Arfeen, Vice President Faisal Khalil Ahmed, Chairman of the Special Committee to Implement MoUs Junaid Esmail Makda, Executive Advisor PBC Dubai Mustafa Hemani, Former Vice President KCCI Haris Agar, and KCCI Managing Committee Members. President KCCI Jawed Bilwani emphasized the importance of strengthening bilateral economic relations and highlighted the key features of the MoU. 'This partnership marks a strategic effort to deepen trade and investment cooperation through practical initiatives such as exchange of trade delegations, joint participation in international exhibitions and trade fairs, and the co-organization of business seminars, workshops, and networking forums', he said. He added that both organizations have agreed to share timely and relevant information pertaining to trade policies, regulatory frameworks, and business practices in their respective regions. Moreover, the agreement outlines mutual support for facilitation of business visa processes, logistical assistance for visiting trade delegations, and promotion of B2B interactions through digital platforms. Jawed Bilwani also lauded PBC Dubai's initiative of launching a dedicated website and mobile application to promote B2B matchmaking, enabling businesses to find potential partners with ease. 'Such tools are critical for increasing engagement between entrepreneurs and investors in both markets,' he noted. Chairman PBC Dubai, Shabbir Merchant, while underscoring the significance of this agreement for the business communities of both countries, stated that this MoU will not only serve as a bridge between Karachi and Dubai but also create a platform for sustainable economic growth. 'It will facilitate meaningful business linkages, remove hurdles, and offer ease of doing business for entrepreneurs and investors on both sides', he added. Copyright Business Recorder, 2025
Khaleej Times
23-03-2025
- Business
- Khaleej Times
Facilitating Pak businesses is my top priority, says Shabbir Merchant
The Pakistan Business Council (PBC) Dubai plays a significant role in facilitating Pakistani businesses in the region, especially as Dubai continues to grow as a global business hub, its top official says. Shabbir Merchant, Chairman, PBC-Dubai, said the premier business group provides valuable support and resources for Pakistani companies looking to expand their presence and operations in Dubai and the broader UAE market. 'One of the key ways the PBC facilitates business is by acting as a bridge between Pakistani entrepreneurs and the local business community. It helps Pakistani companies navigate the complexities of doing business in the UAE by providing information on regulations, market trends, and investment opportunities,' Merchant told Khaleej Times during an interview. He further said the PBC-Dubai organises networking events, seminars, and trade delegations, allowing business owners to connect with potential partners, investors, and clients. Additionally, the PBC-Dubai advocates for the interests of Pakistani businesses, ensuring that the relevant government authorities hear their concerns in both Pakistan and the UAE. It also works to enhance bilateral trade relations between the two countries, helping to create a more favorable environment for Pakistani businesses in Dubai. 'Overall, the Pakistan Business Council Dubai plays an essential role in promoting trade, investment, and business growth, making it easier for Pakistani businesses to thrive in one of the world's most dynamic economic environments,' the PBC-Dubai chairman said. Excerpts from the interview: What is your strategy to address the PBC Dubai members' concerns to start new business and joint venture or strengthen their existing business in the UAE? To address the concerns of PBC Dubai members regarding starting new businesses, forming joint ventures, or strengthening their existing businesses in the UAE, the strategy should focus on a combination of guidance, resources, networking, and advocacy. Here's an outline of the key steps: Comprehensive Guidance and Information: It is essential to provide members with detailed information about the regulatory environment, market conditions, and business opportunities in the UAE. This includes helping them understand the legal framework, licensing requirements, and steps to set up a business in the UAE. Offering personalized consultations to guide businesses through the process can help alleviate confusion and streamline the setup process. Facilitating Networking and Partnerships: Organising networking events, business forums, and matchmaking sessions will enable members to connect with potential partners, investors, and clients. This will be particularly useful for businesses looking to form joint ventures or collaborations. By creating opportunities for direct interaction with UAE-based businesses and other international investors, we can foster strategic partnerships and increase market penetration. Workshops and Skill Development: Offering workshops and seminars on key topics such as international trade, digital transformation, legal matters, marketing strategies, and financial management will help businesses strengthen their capabilities. Providing training on how to adapt to the UAE market and its consumer behavior can also give Pakistani businesses a competitive edge. Advocacy and Representation: The PBC Dubai should continue advocating for the interests of Pakistani businesses by representing their concerns to relevant UAE authorities. This includes ensuring that members' concerns regarding trade regulations, taxation, or investment policies are addressed at both the local and federal government levels. Promoting a Strong Online Presence: In the digital age, building an online presence is essential for business success. Helping members develop digital marketing strategies, e-commerce platforms, and social media campaigns can help increase their visibility and reach. By focusing on these areas, the PBC Dubai can effectively address its members' concerns, making it easier for them to start new businesses, form joint ventures, or strengthen their existing operations in the UAE. The goal is to foster a thriving, supportive environment where businesses can grow and succeed. Dubai hosts number of trade exhibitions throughout the year. Do you facilitate/invite Pakistani businesses to participate in the trade events/exhibitions to promote Pakistani products in the UAE? Yes, Dubai hosts a wide range of trade exhibitions throughout the year, and it is essential for Pakistani businesses to participate in these events to promote their products and expand their market reach. The PBC-Dubai actively facilitates and encourages Pakistani businesses to participate in these trade exhibitions and events, ensuring they have a strong presence in the UAE market. Here's how the PBC Dubai supports Pakistani businesses in this regard: Organising Group Participation: In some cases, the PBC organises group participation for Pakistani businesses in major trade shows and exhibitions. This allows smaller companies to benefit from collective visibility and shared costs, making it more affordable for them to exhibit their products. By offering logistical support, the PBC helps businesses with booth arrangements, branding, and overall preparation. Networking and B2B Opportunities: The PBC also arranges B2B meetings and networking events around these trade exhibitions to ensure that Pakistani businesses can meet directly with UAE-based distributors, retailers, and potential partners. This maximizes the opportunities for business development during the exhibitions. Follow-up and Post-event Engagement: After the exhibitions, the PBC continues to support its members by facilitating follow-up communications with the contacts and leads generated during the event. This ensures that businesses can convert their exhibition efforts into tangible business opportunities and build long-term relationships. By actively engaging with trade exhibitions in Dubai, the PBC plays a crucial role in promoting Pakistani products and businesses in the UAE, helping them gain exposure, explore new markets, and establish valuable partnerships. This proactive participation strengthens Pakistan's presence in one of the most competitive and dynamic markets in the world. PBC Dubai plays an active role in mobilising Pak business community. What is your plan to make this platform more effective in strengthening UAE-Pakistan bilateral relations? To make the Pakistan Business Council (PBC) Dubai platform even more effective in strengthening UAE-Pakistan bilateral relations, it is essential to build on the foundation of mobilising the Pakistani business community while incorporating new strategies that focus on collaboration, trade, investment, and shared economic interests. Here's a plan that can further enhance the PBC's role in strengthening these bilateral ties: Enhancing Bilateral Trade Initiatives: Strengthen partnerships with both UAE and Pakistani trade bodies, chambers of commerce, and government entities to identify opportunities for trade and investment. This collaboration can lead to focused initiatives and joint ventures between the two countries. Work closely with government representatives to advocate for more favorable trade agreements, reduced tariffs, and easier market access for Pakistani products in the UAE, and vice versa. Identify key sectors, such as textiles, agriculture, technology, and manufacturing, where Pakistan has a competitive advantage and create tailored initiatives to promote these industries in the UAE. Organising High-impact Networking Events: Regularly host bilateral business forums, inviting key stakeholders from both Pakistan and the UAE to discuss issues such as trade barriers, investment opportunities, and mutual business growth. Organise meetings and events that include high-level government officials, diplomats, and corporate leaders from both countries to discuss policy improvements and mutual business development. Hold targeted networking events based on specific industries or business sectors to promote collaborations and partnerships. These could be tailored to industries like real estate, technology, healthcare, or energy. Leveraging Digital Platforms for Global Reach: Develop digital platforms or online marketplaces where Pakistani businesses can showcase their products to potential buyers in the UAE. This would help overcome physical barriers and make trade more accessible for both sides. In addition to in-person events, host virtual trade conferences and webinars that allow members from both countries to participate, share ideas, and identify collaboration opportunities without geographic limitations. Create digital marketing strategies to raise awareness about Pakistani businesses and their products in the UAE, ensuring that the Pakistani business community remains visible and competitive in the UAE market. Strengthening PBC's Role as a Voice for Pakistani Businesses: The PBC should continue to act as a powerful advocate for Pakistani businesses, ensuring their interests are represented in discussions with both Pakistani and UAE governments. This can include addressing issues like trade barriers, visa policies, and customs regulations. Offer bespoke services to businesses that need assistance navigating the regulatory, financial, and legal landscapes in the UAE. This would ensure that Pakistani businesses can succeed in an ever-evolving market. By implementing these initiatives, the Pakistan Business Council Dubai can play a pivotal role in fostering deeper economic, trade, and cultural ties between the UAE and Pakistan. Strengthening these bilateral relations will not only benefit the business communities but will also contribute to long-term strategic partnerships and mutual prosperity. The PBC's platform can serve as a catalyst for growth, investment, and collaboration, positioning both countries as key partners in the global economy. How do you see the future of Pakistan economy? Which sectors are expected to drive Pakistan's economy this year? The future of Pakistan's economy holds significant potential, despite the challenges it faces. With the right policies and a focus on key sectors, Pakistan can experience economic growth and greater regional and global integration. While the economy has faced challenges such as inflation, fiscal deficits, and political instability in recent years, there are several areas that offer growth opportunities, and the country's young population, strategic location, and improving infrastructure provide a foundation for progress. Agriculture and Agribusiness: Agriculture has traditionally been the backbone of Pakistan's economy, and it will continue to play a crucial role in driving growth. The sector accounts for a significant portion of employment and exports, especially in products like rice, wheat, and cotton. Increasing productivity through modern farming techniques, irrigation improvements, and introducing value-added products such as processed food can boost this sector. Additionally, organic farming and agri-tech solutions are becoming more relevant, and there's potential for growth in the export of agricultural products. Textiles and Apparel: Pakistan's textile industry is one of the largest in the world, and the country is one of the top exporters of textiles and garments. The recent Free Trade Agreements (FTAs) with key countries, including China and the European Union, along with incentives from the government, can help boost the sector. By focusing on value-added products like home textiles, technical textiles, and ready-made garments, Pakistan can move up the value chain. Information Technology (IT) and Digital Services: Pakistan's IT and digital services sector is expanding rapidly, with a growing pool of talented professionals, startups, and a thriving tech ecosystem. The government's emphasis on digitisation, fintech innovations, software development, and IT outsourcing is helping position Pakistan as a global player in the IT sector. The growing number of tech startups and the increasing adoption of digital services in banking, education, and health sectors provide significant growth potential. Tourism: Pakistan's tourism sector has vast untapped potential, with its rich cultural heritage, natural beauty, and historical landmarks. The government has been focusing on promoting tourism, improving infrastructure, and easing visa policies to attract international tourists. Eco-tourism, adventure tourism, and cultural tourism are expected to gain popularity, especially in regions like Gilgit-Baltistan and Swat Valley. In summary, Pakistan's economy is poised for growth in 2025, with key sectors such as agriculture, textiles, IT, construction, and tourism driving the momentum. By addressing key challenges, focusing on value-added industries, and fostering greater regional and global partnerships, Pakistan can build a more resilient and dynamic economy that has the potential to thrive in the coming years. Please highlight the main challenges for the economy of Pakistan, and how PBC-Dubai can help in addressing these challenges? Pakistan's economy faces several challenges that hinder its long-term growth potential. These challenges are multifaceted, ranging from structural issues to external factors. Below are the main challenges for Pakistan's economy, along with suggestions on how the PBC-Dubai can play a role in addressing them: Political Instability and Governance Issues: Political instability and governance challenges in Pakistan have often led to economic policy inconsistency and uncertainty. Frequent changes in leadership, unclear policy directions, and political tensions can deter both local and foreign investment. PBC Dubai can advocate for a more stable and predictable business environment by engaging with both the Pakistani and UAE governments. This includes organizing forums and dialogues between business leaders and policymakers to discuss the importance of consistency in economic policies. Energy Crisis and Infrastructure Deficits: Pakistan struggles with an energy crisis, inadequate infrastructure, and an inefficient power sector, which have negatively impacted industrial growth, productivity, and living standards. PBC Dubai can facilitate collaborations between UAE-based energy companies and Pakistani firms to invest in renewable energy projects, such as solar and wind power. This can reduce Pakistan's dependence on fossil fuels and alleviate energy shortages. Inflation and Currency Depreciation: Pakistan has faced high inflation rates and a depreciating currency, which affects purchasing power, increases costs for businesses, and undermines investor confidence. PBC Dubai can facilitate investment from UAE-based companies into Pakistan's high-value sectors like IT, textiles, and agriculture. Increased foreign investment can help stabilise the economy by creating jobs, boosting exports, and strengthening Pakistan's currency. Unemployment and Underemployment: A large percentage of Pakistan's population is young, and the economy faces challenges in creating sufficient job opportunities, particularly for its growing youth demographic. Underemployment remains a critical issue, especially in rural areas. PBC Dubai can act as a facilitator for UAE-based investors and entrepreneurs who are interested in setting up businesses or joint ventures in Pakistan. This would create job opportunities in key sectors such as IT, manufacturing, and services. Trade Deficit and Export Challenges: Pakistan faces a persistent trade deficit, with imports far exceeding exports. One of the key issues is the lack of diversification in exports, and a heavy reliance on primary commodities such as textiles and agricultural products. PBC Dubai can help Pakistani businesses explore new markets in the UAE and beyond, especially in high-demand sectors like food processing, technology, and pharmaceuticals. PBC Dubai can play an active role in creating awareness about Pakistani products and services in the UAE, boosting Pakistan's exports by promoting its unique value propositions in various industries. By leveraging its position as a key business hub in the UAE, PBC Dubai can be instrumental in addressing the challenges faced by Pakistan's economy. Through policy advocacy, facilitating investment, promoting exports, and encouraging knowledge exchange, the PBC can play a crucial role in supporting sustainable growth and helping Pakistan overcome its economic obstacles. By fostering stronger UAE-Pakistan economic ties, the PBC can contribute to a more resilient and dynamic economy for Pakistan in the years to come. — muzaffarrizvi@
