The All Pakistan Anjuman Tajran (APAT) on Monday announced a complete shutter-down strike across the country on August 28 to protest against the government’s imposition of various taxes.
The strike call has been endorsed by the Karachi Chamber of Commerce and Industry (KCCI), Central Traders Association (CTA), Sindh Traders Alliance (STA), Rawalpindi Traders Association, Rawalpindi Restaurants, Caterers, Sweets and Bakers Association, Anjuman-i-Tajiran Timergara and other various trade organisations.
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Ajmal Baloch, the president of All Pakistan Anjuman Tajran, stated that traders will close all businesses nationwide to protest against these taxes.
Baloch criticized the government’s attempts to negotiate, labeling the efforts as mere tactics to halt the strike.
He emphasized that the government must withdraw the contentious tax scheme, warning that if not, a two-day strike would follow.
Baloch highlighted the severe financial strain on traders, citing a 70 percent reduction in business activity and the burden of valuation table taxes, rising electricity bills, and shop rents.
JUI-F leader Maulana Fazlur Rehman has also endorsed the strike, urging his party members to ensure the participation in the strike.
