Nationwide Strike Looms as Business and Transport Sectors Unite Against Fiscal Measures
A significant nationwide strike is set to take place on July 19, as the business and transport sectors in Pakistan join forces to protest against the controversial provisions of the Finance Act 2025. The Karachi Chamber of Commerce and Industry (KCCI), along with various goods transport associations across the country, has declared a wheel-jam strike, warning that economic activity will come to a standstill if the contentious fiscal measures are not suspended immediately.
At a press conference held at KCCI, President Muhammad Jawed Bilwani reiterated the business community’s strong opposition to five key provisions and 32 anomalies introduced in the Finance Act. He called for the federal government to issue a formal notification suspending these measures before any dialogue could take place. “The entire business and transport community stands united,” Bilwani stated, emphasizing that no vehicle would be allowed to move on July 19. “This is not just a strike; it’s a call for economic survival.”
Bilwani specifically highlighted the need for the immediate withdrawal of several problematic sections of the Sales Tax Act, including Sections 37A and 37B, which grant FBR officials the power to arrest without a warrant. He also pointed to Section 21(S), which penalizes cash transactions exceeding Rs200,000, and SRO 709, which mandates digital invoicing. Additionally, he called for the restoration of the Final Tax Regime for exporters and the removal of Section 40C regarding e-Bilty.
Despite the Ministry of Finance reaching out to KCCI for discussions, no written assurance or official notification had been issued so far. Bilwani stressed that without formal suspension of the provisions, there would be no dialogue or postponement of the strike. Transporters, including representatives from the Pakistan Goods Transport Alliance and multiple carrier associations, have pledged full solidarity with KCCI, confirming that all goods movement will be halted nationwide.
Zubair Motiwala, Chairman of the Businessmen Group (BMG), also present at the press conference, remarked that strikes are not the preferred option but emphasized that the government’s indifference has left businesses with no choice. “This is now a question of economic survival,” he said.
Bilwani also mentioned that over 50 trade and industrial associations from across Pakistan have formally endorsed KCCI’s stance. He criticized the Federal Board of Revenue (FBR) for its 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,” he concluded.
The strike is expected to cause major disruptions to supply chains and commercial operations nationwide. In addition to KCCI, the Lahore Chamber of Commerce and Industry (LCCI) has also announced a countrywide strike on July 19, opposing Section 37AA of the Income Tax Ordinance, taxes on bank transactions, and Punjab’s proposed labor policy, which the LCCI describes as “anti-business.”
At a press conference at LCCI headquarters, President Mian Abuzar Shad warned that the recent fiscal measures would severely impact businesses, increase unemployment, and shake investor confidence. He condemned the extraordinary powers granted to FBR officials and criticized the lack of consultation with business stakeholders in economic policymaking.
The LCCI demanded the immediate withdrawal of the proposed measures and an end to what it calls 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 activities on July 19.
