ISLAMABAD: Amid concerns expressed by food business owners, the Islamabad Chamber of Commerce and Industry (ICCI) has welcomed the establishment of the Islamabad Food Authority (IFA).

ICCI President Ahsan Zafar Bakhtawari on Saturday said the business community welcomed the setting up of the food authority as it would ensure supply of safe and unadulterated food to citizens.

However, he emphasised that the authority should finalise the food standards and laws in consultation with stakeholders which will yield better results for both sides.

Mr Bakhtawari was talking to IFA Chairperson Dr Tahira Fatima during her visit to the ICCI.

The law related to setting up of the authority was approved in October 2020, but the matter fell victim to red tape and conflict among government departments.

Besides small traders, milk and meat sellers as well as restaurants and other eateries have lobbied against the establishment of such an entity and pushed against it even during the elections of the ICCI.

During the meeting, it was decidedthat joint efforts will be made to avoid confrontation between the authority and businesses over implementation of food laws.

ICCI Vice President Azharul Islam Zafar suggested that the chamber should be taken on board about any complaint against any restaurant, bakeryortradersothatsuchissuescanbe solved with joint efforts and food interests of citizens can be better protected.

Meanwhile, the ICCI president called upon Dr Fatima to conduct awareness sessions in markets to educate and sensitise the business community about the food sector.

He said a committee comprising representatives of ICCI and IFA should be formed to play a role in solving the problems of the food sector and move forward with consensus.

Dr Fatima said the aim of her authority was to ensure the availability of quality food to the citizens. She hoped that the business community in the food sector would cooperate in achieving the goal.

She said owners of restaurants and bakeries will be provided comprehensive guidance about food safety measures to save them from fines and punishment. Kalbe Ali