‘Successful' strike conveyed a strong message: KCCI chief
The complete shutdown of markets, industries, and commercial activities reflected a powerful message of economic unity and collective resistance by Pakistan's business community, he said in a statement issued here on Saturday.
He emphasised that the strike was not an act of defiance, but a last resort adopted in response to the government's failure to address widespread concerns raised by the business community. Despite several representations and appeals, key anti-business provisions were included in the Finance Act 2025–26 that have generated an atmosphere of fear, uncertainty, and hostility among taxpayers.
The business community's key demands, which remain unresolved, include the immediate suspension of Section 37A and 37B of the Income Tax Ordinance, which grant unchecked powers to arrest and prosecute taxpayers without due process; withdrawal of Section 21(s), which imposes unjust penalties on transactions made through cash, a mode of payment still widely used in Pakistan's business Bilwani said that these demands were conveyed in detail to the special committee formed by the Federal Finance Minister and headed by Special Assistant to the Prime Minister (SAPM) on Finance, Haroon Akhtar Khan.
The business community expected meaningful outcomes based on the recommendations, and rationale submitted to this committee. However, only verbal assurances were given, which further intensified the frustration and compelled businesses to demonstrate their discontent through a peaceful and united shutdown.
He extended particular thanks to the seven industrial town associations of Karachi: SITE Association, Korangi Association, Landhi Association, North Karachi Association, Bin Qasim Association, SITE Super Highway Association, and Federal B Area Association for their resolute and unified response.
He also acknowledged the contributions of various sectoral organisations and trade groups including the Pakistan Hosiery Manufacturers & Exporters Association (PHMA), Pakistan Knitwear & Sweater Exporters Association, Karachi Electronic Dealers Association, Sabzi Mandi Association, Local Goods Transporters Association, Kabari Market Association, and Pakistan Petroleum Dealers Association.
Furthermore, he expressed appreciation to fellow Chambers of Commerce & Industry from different parts of Pakistan whose active participation reinforced the voice of unity and economic justice.
Bilwani made it clear that the July 19 strike was only the first step. He stated that the Karachi Chamber will closely monitor the progress of the Committee led by SAPM Haroon Akhtar during the coming week, particularly with regard to the incorporation of the recommendations provided by KCCI and allied trade bodies.
The Chamber expects concrete commitments and actionable reforms in the shortest possible time, as any further delays will be seen as a continuation of disregard for the business community's legitimate grievances. 'If we do not see any meaningful progress or written assurances by the end of next week, we will hold urgent consultations with Members, sectoral stakeholders, and Chambers of Commerce across the country to determine the next course of action.'
He said we want dialogue, not confrontation. But if our concerns continue to be ignored, we will not hesitate to intensify our course of action. We remain committed to protecting Pakistan's economy, but that cannot happen unless the business community is heard, respected, and supported.
However, President Federal B Area Association of Trade and Industry (FBATI) Sheikh Mohammed Tehseen said that closure of the industrial and trading units countrywide reflects the unity of the business community against absurd laws for giving undue powers to the tax authority. The business community observed a peaceful strike to show their protest and express solidarity; however, the closure of business and economic activities is not in the favour of national interest
President SITE Super Highway Masood Pervaiz said that the businessmen community is open for holding consultation with the government for enhancing tax revenue and curbing tax evasion without any element of harassment and stringent attitude.
He suggested that the government should work aggressively with the business community towards adoption of digitization in the economic and governance system to achieve multiple objectives at a national level.
Also, the government should promote ease of doing business and reduce production costs for business and trade in the country.
Copyright Business Recorder, 2025
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