ISLAMABAD: The traders’ community across Pakistan on Tuesday called for a nationwide strike on August 28 following a breakdown in negotiations with the Federal Board of Revenue (FBR). The Central President of the Anjuman-e-Tajiran, Kashif Chaudhry, said that traders are determined to enforce a complete shutdown across the country.
The traders are demanding a reduction in electricity prices and a review of the Independent Power Producer (IPP) agreements, which they argue are essential for stabilizing the economic system. Chaudhry emphasized the traders’ frustration with the current tax system, stating that the planned strike is a measure to address these concerns.
“All shopkeepers who wish to keep their shutters open in the future will close them on August 28,” Chaudhry declared. The planned shutdown will be observed in major cities nationwide, including Karachi, Lahore, Faisalabad, Multan, Gujranwala, and Peshawar.
FBR Chairman Rashid Mahmood Langrial had earlier engaged in virtual meetings with traders from several cities. During these discussions, Langrial assured that the government would address the ‘legitimate’ demands of the traders. However, he made it clear that the Tajir Dost Scheme would not be withdrawn.
Langrial stressed that while Pakistan is among the few countries that do not levy retail and wholesale taxes, it remains imperative to ensure a balanced tax burden. He hinted at potential revisions in market rates and advanced income tax mechanisms to alleviate the financial strain on small businesses. The FBR chairman also promised a transparent mechanism for advance income tax and hinted at forthcoming positive developments for traders.
