Subsidised schemes for women entrepreneurs sought

PESHAWAR: Khyber Pakhtu-nkhwa Women Entrepreneurs Network (KPWEN) has called for immediate amendments to the KP Commerce and Trade Act 2021 to formally open an easy registration window with Women Chambers of Commerce and Industry (WCCI) in the province.

The demand was made during the first quarterly meeting of the network that was participated by stakeholders, government officials, representatives of the private sector and women entrepreneurs.

The meeting was held to strengthen and empower women-led businesses across KP by 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, Programme Manager Centre for Governance and Public Accountability (CGPA) opened the meeting and reaffirmed CGPA’s dedication to promoting women’s participation in both democratic processes and economic activities.

He stressed that registering Women Chambers of Commerce is essential to institutionalize women’s representation in trade and commerce in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.

Azra Jamshid, President of WCCI Peshawar called for introducing subsidized schemes for women entrepreneurs and improving 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 the government to support women’s businesses by arranging business expos to explore market opportunities.

The provincial chief of SMEDA urged the government to simplify regulations and increase opportunities for women in entrepreneurship education, skill development and access to finance. He emphasized the need for public-private partnerships to create a more inclusive business environment for women.

Ashfaq Masood, Commissioner of Inland Revenue of the 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 and a registered mobile number to streamline the registration process.

Addressing the meeting, the Senior Vice President and Head of MSME (Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises) recommended the establishment of a Women’s 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 contribution of business incubation centers in fostering entrepreneurship and innovation.