Waves of insecurity penetrated each and every sector of the business and trade while the exporters said it was extremely negative for Pakistan's image abroad.
"An honest man and successful finance minister whose sincerity is beyond any doubt was target which is certainly depressing," said an exporter.
A number of trade and export associations expressed their deep concern over the assassinating attempt on Shaukat Aziz.
Most of the traders were surprised as to how a person like Aziz, who would be the next Prime Minister of this country, could not be protected enough to save him from such incidents.
"It is difficult to digest that our security system is foolproof," said a businessman who was worried that after this incident Pakistan would lose opportunity of foreign investment. It would take a long time to remove these deadly incidents from the minds of those who wish to invest in Pakistan, he said.
"Aziz has put the country on the path of progress and prosperity. We can not afford to lose him," said Waqar Monnoo, Chairman of All Pakistan Textile Mills Association.
"We need the person like Shaukat Aziz to do more for the socio-economic development of the country and welfare of the people," he added.
Chairman Pakistan Cotton Ginners Association Jethanand Kohistani also condemned the incident, asking the government to provide Shaukat Aziz full security to avoid such incidents in future.
The Association passed a resolution condemning the murder attempt and termed it open terrorism. "We demand that the government should eliminate all kinds of terrorism from the country," said Jethanand.
"Let me assure you that myself, the entire business community of Karachi and for that matter of entire country is with you and will continue to strengthen your hands in the service to the nation," said Siraj Kassam Teli, President, Karachi Chamber of Commerce & Industry, in a letter to the Finance Minister.
"Please do not hesitate to ask, if we could be of any help to you," he said. "I am confident that the God has chosen you to change the destiny of the people. Everyone participating in the Karachi-based Exporters Awards Ceremony, which was to be attended by you as Chief Guest, missed you and prayed for your long life."