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Express Tribune
2 days ago
- Business
- Express Tribune
Economic halt as nation strikes
Listen to article Pakistan's business and industrial community observed a nationwide strike on Saturday, protesting Sections 37A, 37B, and 37AA of the Income Tax Ordinance, which grant the Federal Board of Revenue (FBR) powers to arrest defaulting taxpayers. The shutter-down strike, led by major trade bodies and industrial associations, saw thousands of markets, factories, and commercial units closed across the country in what business leaders called a unified stand against "draconian and anti-business" laws. The protest was led by major trade bodies, including the Karachi Chamber of Commerce and Industry (KCCI), the Pakistan Hosiery Manufacturers and Exporters Association (PHMA), and various industrial town associations. It was held in strong opposition to the controversial new tax laws introduced through the Finance Act 2025-26. "The complete shutdown of markets, industries, and commercial activities reflected a powerful message of economic unity and collective resistance by Pakistan's business community," KCCI President Muhammad Jawed Bilwani said in a statement issued on Saturday. Bilwani 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 created an atmosphere of fear, uncertainty, and hostility among taxpayers. The business community's key demands, which remain unresolved, include the immediate suspension of Sections 37A and 37B of the Income Tax Ordinance, which grant unchecked powers to arrest and prosecute taxpayers without due process; the withdrawal of Section 21(s), which imposes penalties on transactions made through cash, mode of payment still widely used in Pakistan's business landscape, and the restoration of the Final Tax Regime for exporters. He said these demands were conveyed in detail to the special committee formed by the federal finance minister and headed by the 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 frustration and compelled businesses to demonstrate their discontent through a peaceful and united shutdown. "The business community observed a peaceful strike to show their protest against absurd laws and express solidarity; however, the closure of business and economic activities is not in the national interest," said Sheikh Mohammed Tehseen, President of the Federal B Area Association of Trade and Industry (FBATI). He added that the government should repeal these oppressive laws and offer confidence and protection to businessmen and investors. President of SITE Super Highway, Masood Pervaiz, said that the business community is open to consultations with the government to enhance tax revenue and curb tax evasion without any harassment or stringent attitudes. He suggested that the government work actively with the business community towards digitisation in the economic and governance systems to achieve multiple national objectives. He also urged the government to promote ease of doing business and reduce production costs for businesses and trade in the country. President of the Lahore Chamber of Commerce and Industry (LCCI), Mian Abuzar Shad, said that July 19, 2025, will go down in history as a defining day of awareness, unity, and struggle by Pakistan's business community. "Lahore has proven today that it is not just a city – it is a sentiment, a force," he said, demanding urgent revisions and clarifications on Section 37AA, implementation of the e-invoicing and e-Bilty systems, the 16% sales tax on property rent, and the 20% tax on transactions above Rs200,000. The Pakistan Hosiery Manufacturers and Exporters Association (PHMA) also joined hands with chambers and trade bodies across the country in a complete industrial shutdown to protest the controversial arrest powers granted to the FBR. Zonal Chairman of PHMA, Abdul Hameed, along with former chairmen Shafiq Butt and Naseer Butt, announced the closure of hosiery units as part of the countrywide strike, warning that such legislation would only deepen the crisis facing Pakistan's export-oriented sectors. The PHMA leadership said the business community could no longer remain silent while draconian laws continued to erode the confidence of investors and exporters. They said PHMA's participation in the strike was not symbolic but a complete operational shutdown in protest against what they termed economic strangulation by the government's policies. Abdul Hameed expressed grave concern over Section 37AA, which gives FBR officers the authority to arrest businesspersons without due process or prior investigation, merely on suspicion of tax evasion. He said this law is a clear violation of constitutional rights and a serious blow to the already fragile industrial environment of Pakistan.
Business Recorder
2 days ago
- Business
- Business Recorder
‘Successful' strike conveyed a strong message: KCCI chief
KARACHI: President Karachi Chamber of Commerce & Industry (KCCI) Muhammad Jawed Bilwani, while expressing deep gratitude and heartfelt appreciation to the entire business community for their unwavering support and solidarity in making Saturday's nationwide shutter-down strike a success, stated that the strike, jointly called by KCCI and leading Chambers, as well as, other national trade and industry associations, was held in protest against the harsh, impractical, and anti-business taxation measures introduced through the Finance Act 2025–26. 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
Business Recorder
7 days ago
- Business
- Business Recorder
Transporters too support July 19 strike call
KARACHI: President Karachi Chamber of Commerce & Industry (KCCI) Muhammad Jawed Bilwani while strongly reaffirming the business community's uncompromising stance against the five key anti-business measures and 32 anomalies introduced in the Finance Act 2025, urged the federal government to immediately suspend these provisions and issue a formal notification to that effect. Addressing a press conference at the KCCI on Monday, flanked by representatives from goods transporters' associations and alliances from across Pakistan who were led by Chairman Pakistan Goods Transport Alliance Malik Shahzad Awan, Bilwani made it clear that unless the government puts all these measures in abeyance, the nationwide strike scheduled for July 19 will take place with full force, bringing economic activity across the country to a grinding halt. Bilwani emphasised that only upon suspension of controversial provisions will the business community engage in any dialogue with lawmakers. He reiterated KCCI's demand for the immediate withdrawal of Sections 37A and 37B of the Finance Act, which empower FBR officials with arbitrary arrest powers; Section 21 (S), which imposes harsh penalties on cash transactions of Rs. 200,000 or more; mandatory digital invoicing under SRO 709; and the imposition of E-Bilty under Section 40(C). He also called for the restoration of the Final Tax Regime for exporters. Jawed Bilwani said that the leaders of the transporters associations have expressed unwavering solidarity with KCCI and confirmed their active participation in the upcoming strike. The transporter alliances declared their full and unconditional support, committing to remain fully aligned with KCCI's demands and to stand united until these are met, regardless of the consequences. They announced a complete wheel-jam strike, declaring that no vehicle will move on July 19, in absolute unity with the business community. Copyright Business Recorder, 2025
Express Tribune
14-07-2025
- Business
- Express Tribune
Aurangzeboffers talks to avert July 19 strike
The federal government on Monday invited representatives of all trade bodies for talks after Karachi's business community and transporters announced a countrywide wheel-jam strike on July 19 in protest against certain budgetary measures introduced through the Finance Act 2025. Speaking at the Overseas Investors Chamber of Commerce and Industry (OICCI) in Karachi, Finance Minister Muhammad Aurangzeb invited all chambers of commerce and trade associations on Tuesday (today) to discuss their concerns over the Finance Act. The minister's talks offer came after Goods Carrier Association head Malik Shahzad Awan and Karachi Chamber of Commerce and Industry (KCCI) President Javed Bilwani addressed a joint press conference regarding the strike call for July 19. "All transporters will participate in the KCCI's strike on July 19. The wheel jam strike will continue until the KCCI's demands are met. We are also prepared for a longer duration strike," Malik Shahzad Awan told the media persons. The KCCI called the strike against "five key measures" incorporated in the federal budget for the current fiscal year and 32 anomalies in the Finance Act. At the joint press conference, Bilwani made it clear that unless the government put all these measures in abeyance, there would be a strike on July 19. The KCCI opposes Sections 37A and 37B of the Finance Act, which it claims, empowers the FBR with arbitrary arrest powers; Section 21(S), that imposes harsh penalties on cash transactions of Rs200,000 or above; mandatory digital invoicing under SRO 709; and the imposition of E-Bilty under Section 40©. At the OICCI, the finance minister said that he would listen to the position of all the chambers and associations and also explain his position. "All chambers should come after reading the current law. We have put many safeguards in the law against sales tax fraud and other issues," he said. Aurangzeb dismissed the criticism as "propaganda" regarding the enhanced powers granted to the Federal Board of Revenue (FBR), which, he said, aimed to counter large-scale sales tax fraud. He said that the additional powers apply to cases of over Rs50 million tax evasion and not on ordinary businesses. "The new legal tools have been implemented solely to prevent fraudulent activity related to sales tax," Aurangzeb said. "An important meeting with presidents of chambers will be held tomorrow [today]. The government will explain the scope and intent of the FBR's actions to business leaders," he said. Earlier, Biliwani, the KCCI president, insisted on the demand for the immediate withdrawal of the "controversial" Sections of the Finance Act. He also called for the restoration of the Final Tax Regime for exporters. Bilwani revealed that the KCCI was being approached by the Finance Ministry, and while other efforts were being made to resolve the issues through dialogue, but added that there had been no official assurance or notification to suspend the controversial measures. "The KCCI has requested the government to hold these matters in abeyance until a mutually beneficial and constructive solution is found," he said, warning that the strike would "not be postponed until and unless these demands are fully accepted". Responding to a query, Bilwani stressed that the entire business community was fully united and KCCI continued "to receive overwhelming support" from across the country. "More than 50 formal letters have been received from various business associations, reaffirming their solidarity with the KCCI."
Business Recorder
14-07-2025
- Business
- Business Recorder
KCCI, transporters announce July 19 strike against Finance Act provisions
The Karachi Chamber of Commerce and Industry (KCCI), joined by goods transport associations from across Pakistan, has announced a nationwide wheel-jam strike on July 19 in protest against the Finance Act 2025, warning the government of a complete halt in economic activity if controversial fiscal measures are not suspended immediately. Addressing a press conference at KCCI on Monday, President Muhammad Jawed Bilwani reiterated the business community's firm rejection of five key measures and 32 anomalies introduced in the Finance Act. He demanded that the federal government issue a formal notification suspending these provisions as a precondition for any dialogue. 'The entire business and transport community stands united,' Bilwani said, flanked by transport leaders from Karachi, Lahore, and other regions. 'No vehicle will move on July 19. This is not just a strike, it's a call for economic survival.' Bilwani called for the immediate withdrawal of Sections 37A and 37B of the Sales Tax Act, which empower FBR officials to arrest without warrant; Section 21(S), which penalizes cash transactions of Rs200,000 or more; SRO 709 mandating digital invoicing; Section 40C regarding e-Bilty; and restoration of the Final Tax Regime for exporters. He noted that although the Ministry of Finance had reached out to KCCI for talks, no written assurance or official notification had been issued so far. 'We have made it clear; unless these provisions are formally held in abeyance, there will be no dialogue and no postponement of the strike,' he stated. Transporters, including representatives from the Pakistan Goods Transport Alliance and multiple carrier associations, declared full solidarity with the KCCI, confirming that all goods movement will be suspended nationwide. Chairman Businessmen Group (BMG) Zubair Motiwala, also present at the press conference, stated: 'Strikes are not our preference, but the government's indifference has left us with no choice. This is now a question of economic survival.' Responding to a question on national unity, Bilwani said more than 50 trade and industrial associations from across Pakistan have formally endorsed KCCI's stance. He criticised the FBR's enforcement record and called for accountability within the Finance Ministry. 'The country cannot afford these anti-business policies. We urge the government to act before the damage becomes irreversible,' Bilwani concluded. With both business and transport sectors firmly aligned, the July 19 strike is expected to cause significant disruption to supply chains and commercial operations nationwide. Separately, the Lahore Chamber of Commerce and Industry (LCCI) has also announced a countrywide strike on July 19 against Section 37AA of the Income Tax Ordinance, taxes on bank transactions, and Punjab's proposed labour policy, which the LCCI has termed 'anti-business.' At a press conference at LCCI headquarters, President Mian Abuzar Shad warned that the recent fiscal measures would severely hurt businesses, increase unemployment, and shake investor confidence. He condemned the extraordinary powers granted to FBR officials and criticised economic policymaking without consultation with business stakeholders. The LCCI demanded the immediate withdrawal of the proposed measures and an end to what it called the 'economic victimisation' of the business community. Business chambers and trade associations from across the country have expressed support for both KCCI and LCCI, setting the stage for a widespread shutdown of commercial and transport activity on July 19.
