KARACHI/LAHORE: Traders and industrialists across major commercial hubs in Karachi and Lahore observed a successful shutdown on Saturday, protesting against harsh new regulations imposed by the Federal Board of Revenue (FBR).
In Lahore, the shutdown was called by the Lahore Chamber of Commerce, leading to the closure of major markets such as Shah Alam Market, Akbari Mandi, Anarkali, Urdu Bazaar, Hall Road, Mall Road, and Beadon Road.
Lahore Chamber President Mian Abuzar Shad stated that traders have sent a clear message to the government rejecting the forced tax policies. “We support dialogue, not conflict,” he said, announcing that the next course of action will be shared on Wednesday.
President of Anjuman Tajiran Lahore, Mujahid Maqsood Butt, termed the strike a “trailer” against FBR rules and said that the economic assassination of tax-paying traders is unacceptable.
In Karachi, despite differences between the Karachi Chamber of Commerce and FPCCI, many major markets remained closed. Industrial areas like Korangi, Landhi, SITE, North Karachi, and Federal B Area saw partial shutdowns.
President of North Karachi Industrial Association, Faisal Moiz, claimed 70% of industries, including export units, were closed. Exporter Iftikhar Ahmed Malik urged the government to roll back anti-business laws to support economic growth and exports.
Karachi Chamber President Muhammad Javed Bilwani said the strike was a protest against the harsh and business-unfriendly tax measures imposed through the Finance Act. He warned that the strike could be expanded next week if the demands are not met.