KPWEN for amending KP Commerce Statistics Act 2021 to facilitate women entrepreneurs

PESHAWAR
The Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Women Entrepreneurs Network (KPWEN) has called for immediate amendments to KP Commerce and Trade Act 2021 to formally open easy registration window with Women Chambers of Commerce and Industry (WCCI) in the province.
The demand was made during first quarterly meeting of the network that was participated by stakeholders, government officials, representatives of private sector and women entrepreneurs. The meeting was held to strengthen and empower women-led businesses across KP through fostering collaboration and advocating for policy and legislative reforms.
Women entrepreneurs’ network stressed the need for a dedicated KP Commerce and Trade Statistics Act to facilitate the formal registration of Women Chambers of Commerce and ensure a supportive policy framework for women entrepreneurs.
Khalfan Ahmed Khattak, Program Manager Centre for Governance and Public Accountability (CGPA) opened the meeting and reaffirmed CGPA’s dedication to promote women participation in both democratic processes and economic activities.
He emphasized the organization’s mission to foster greater inclusion of women in decision making roles and business sectors stressing that registering Women Chambers of Commerce is essential to institutionalize women’s representation in trade and commerce in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.
He also provided an overview of CGPA’s ongoing CIPE-funded project which supports the private sector in keeping civic and business spaces open in KP. He noted that KPWEN is a significant initiative that aimed at empowering women entrepreneurs by providing a provincial level forum for dialogue.
Speaking on the occasion, Azra Jamshid, President of WCCI Peshawar called for introducing subsidized schemes for women entrepreneurs and improve coordination between chambers and relevant government departments.
Naeema Naz, President of WCCI Lower Dir expressed concern over the challenges faced by district chambers and urged government to support women businesses by arranging business expos to explore market opportunities.
Provincial Chief of SMEDA urged government to simplify regulations and increase opportunities for women in entrepreneurship education, skill development and access to finance. He also emphasized the need for public-private partnerships to create a more inclusive business environment for women.
Ashfaq Masood, Commissioner Inland Revenue of Federal Board of Revenue (FBR) outlined the regulatory procedures for business registration and filing tax returns. He urged women entrepreneurs to ensure that they complete the necessary documentation including valid CNIC, registered mobile number to streamline the registration process.
Addressing the meeting, Senior Vice President and Head of MSME (Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises) recommended establishment of a Women Financial Services Department to assist women with financial planning and access to loans. He emphasized that fully documented businesses could benefit from Bank of Khyber loan schemes. Speaking in the panel discussion on “Role of Chamber of Commerce and Industries in Business Strengthening in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa,” Mahvish Ayub, Head of Strategy at National Incubation Center Peshawar underscored the vital contribution of business incubation centers in fostering entrepreneurship and innovation.