Benefits of Registration with the Islamabad Chamber of Commerce and Industry (ICCI)

Registering with the Islamabad Chamber of Commerce and Industry (ICCI) can significantly enhance the growth and operations of businesses. Here are the key benefits of becoming a member:

Networking Opportunities

• Access to Meetings, Conferences, and Seminars: Participate in events organized by ICCI to stay updated on industry trends.
• Meetings with Foreign Business Delegations: Engage in B2B meetings and expand your business network.
• Join ICCI Business Delegations: Attend international trade exhibitions and conferences, opening doors to global markets.

Business Development Support

• Training and Capacity Building Programs: Benefit from free or paid programs that enhance business skills and knowledge.
• Business Leads and International Tenders: Receive crucial information via email to seize new opportunities.
• Advisory Support: Get expert advice for business development.
• Facilitation Services from Government Departments: Access upcoming services to streamline business processes.

Information and Updates

• SMS Notifications: Stay informed with important ICCI announcements.
• ICCI Newsletter: Receive updates on the latest developments and trade reports.

Member Discounts and Benefits

• Discounts on Various Services: Enjoy savings on services from hospitals, laboratories, hotels, schools, and business outlets with your ICCI membership card.

Dispute Resolution Services

• Mediation Services: Resolve business disputes amicably.
• Support for International Commercial Disputes: Get assistance in resolving cross-border business conflicts.

Documentation Services

• Attestation of Business Documents: Ensure your documents are authenticated for business use.
• Certificate of Origin for Exports: Facilitate export processes with attested certificates.
• Visa Recommendation Letters: Obtain necessary letters for business travel.

Overall, ICCI membership provides a comprehensive support ecosystem that helps businesses grow, explore new opportunities, and navigate challenges effectively.

Who Can Become a Member of the Islamabad Chamber of Commerce?

Membership with the ICCI is open to various types of businesses that meet specific criteria:

Membership Eligibility

• Business Type: Sole proprietorships, partnership firms, associations of persons (AOP), or companies with a valid National Tax Number (NTN) and sales tax registration (if applicable).
• Location: Businesses must be permanently domiciled in the Islamabad Capital Territory or have substantial business interests in the area.
• Endorsement: Membership applications must be proposed and seconded by existing ICCI members.
• Clean Record: Prospective members should have no criminal convictions.

Membership Classes

ICCI offers two main classes of membership:

Corporate Member

• Eligibility: Body corporates (SMC Private Limited, Private Limited, Limited by shares), multinational corporations, sales tax registered manufacturing concerns, or businesses with an annual turnover of Rs. 50 million or above.

Associate Member

• Eligibility: Businesses that are not body corporates, multinational corporations, or sales tax registered manufacturing concerns, with a turnover below Rs. 50 million. This includes sole proprietorships and partnerships.

Fees and Application Procedure for ICCI Membership

Becoming a member of ICCI involves meeting eligibility criteria, submitting the necessary documents, and paying the applicable fees. Here’s a detailed breakdown:

Membership Fees

Corporate Member

• Admission Fee: Rs. 6,500
• Annual Subscription: Rs. 6,500
• ID Card Fee: Rs. 250
• Corporate Social Responsibility Fund: Rs. 100
• Total: Rs. 13,500

Associate Member

• Admission Fee: Rs. 3,250
• Annual Subscription: Rs. 3,250
• ID Card Fee: Rs. 250
• Corporate Social Responsibility Fund: Rs. 100
• Total: Rs. 6,850

Note: Half annual subscription is charged for new memberships if applications are received between October 1 and March 31.

Application Procedure

1. Eligibility Check: Ensure your business meets the eligibility criteria.
2. Gather Required Documents:
   • Copies of CNIC/Passport of proprietors/partners
   • Copy of NTN certificate and latest income tax return
   • Copy of sales tax registration and latest return (if applicable)
   • Partnership deed/company incorporation documents
   • Proof of business address (lease deed, utility bill, etc.)
   • Bank certificate
   • Photographs of proprietors/partners
3. Fill Membership Form: Complete the ICCI membership application form (available on ICCI website or office).
4. Pay Membership Fees: Submit the applicable fees based on the membership class.
5. Submit Application: Submit the completed form and documents to ICCI for processing.

Membership is granted for one year (April 1 to March 31) and needs to be renewed annually by March 31. The membership form fee is Rs. 100. Additional facilitation services for members are being introduced soon.

ICCI membership offers significant advantages, including networking, business development support, information updates, discounts, dispute resolution, and documentation services. By meeting the eligibility criteria, completing the application process, and paying the fees, businesses can leverage these benefits to enhance their growth and success.

ABH Tax Consultants can provide expert services in registering your business with Islamabad Chamber of Commerce, FBR and SECP.