The All Pakistan Anjuman-e-Tajiran has announced a countrywide shutter-down strike on August 28 to protest against the government’s tax policies. The traders’ association strongly opposed the Federal Board of Revenue’s (FBR) recent tax scheme, labeling it unfeasible and demanding its immediate cancellation.
The traders are also calling for the removal of withholding taxes on basic necessities like pulses and flour. Trade leaders are urging the government to reconsider agreements with Independent Power Producers (IPPs) and abolish the tax system on electricity bills. They want a rollback on recent hikes in gas prices, security charges, and high electricity slabs.
Furthermore, the traders demand the withdrawal of FBR’s controversial SROs G-236 and H-236. They also believe that free utilities and fuel allowances for top government officials, including the President and Prime Minister, should end. Additionally, they suggest that government officers should opt for smaller, more economical vehicles instead of luxury cars.
Traders are also pressing for the removal of General Sales Tax (GST) on essential items such as food, stationery, poultry, and medicines. They seek relief in the export sector and call for the reversal of heavy taxes on this industry. Moreover, they want the government to roll back recent increases in income tax for private employees and traders.
If their demands are not addressed, the traders threaten to continue with their strike on August 28. They are also pushing for an increase in the income tax exemption threshold to match inflation, the removal of new taxes on real estate, and the restriction of FBR officers’ powers. Finally, they call for the elimination of interest-based policies to stabilize the economy.
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