MAP identity dispute deepens as former leaders clarify ‘only real’ Marketing Association of Pakistan

The identity dispute within Pakistan’s marketing community has intensified, as new findings confirm that the Marketing Association of Pakistan (MAP), founded in 1967, remains the only legally registered and authentic MAP body.

Imran Malik – MediaBites – November 26, 2025

MediaBites reported two days ago on the identity crisis unfolding within Pakistan’s marketing fraternity. After further investigation, newly obtained information confirms that the Marketing Association of Pakistan (MAP), established in 1967, is the only officially registered and legally recognised marketing body in the country — despite months of confusion stemming from a parallel group using a similar name.

MAP currently operates through two active chapters: MAP Karachi, headed by Azfar Ahsan, and MAP Lahore, led by Omar Chaudhry. Both chapters function under a unified governing structure, including an AGM, annual elections, and a membership system catering to professionals, startups, marketers, students, companies and FMCGs.

READ THE ORIGINAL STORY: MAP: The Marketing Body That Lost Its Own Identity

However, multiple industry sources confirm that a separate organisation — MAP Pakistan (Marketing Associates & Professionals Pakistan), led by Tariq Asmat, a former MAP member, has been presenting itself as the “real MAP,” causing substantial confusion across the marketing community.

In a detailed conversation, Amer Salam, former president of MAP Lahore Chapter, clarified the organisation’s legal standing. He stated that the Marketing Association of Pakistan’s head office is in Karachi, with a legally sanctioned MAP Lahore Chapter, established in 1986, operating under the same parent organisation.

He added that the parallel group is not affiliated with MAP, despite adopting similar branding and communication for what he believes are “financial gains and influence-building.”

Amer confirmed that MAP has issued a legal notice to MAP Pakistan – Marketing Associates & Professionals Pakistan, directing them to change their name and stop misrepresenting themselves as the original MAP. The action aims to protect professionals from confusion and preserve MAP’s longstanding legacy.

On the other hand, Mehboob Elahi of Marketing Associates & Professionals Pakistan said they have issued a public notice clarifying their stance and believe that is “more than enough” in response to the matter.

As MediaBites continues to monitor the situation, the marketing fraternity awaits clarity — and hope for unity — to restore confidence in Pakistan’s oldest professional marketing platform.