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FPCCI Opts Out of Strike, But Traders Paralyze Karachi & Lahore
Despite FPCCI calling off the nationwide strike after govt talks, major business hubs in Karachi & Lahore shut down over new taxes. Traders vow more protests if promises not kept.
ND
by News Desk
2025-07-19
FPCCI Opts Out of Strike, But Traders Paralyze Karachi & Lahore

The Federation of Pakistan Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FPCCI) has announced that it will not observe a nationwide strike following successful negotiations with the federal government, but this move failed to prevent large-scale business shutdowns in Karachi and Lahore, as traders and local chambers took to the streets against newly imposed taxes.

FPCCI Backs Off After Government Assurances

Addressing a press conference after a high-level committee meeting, FPCCI President Atif Ikram Sheikh confirmed that the business community had reached an agreement with the government. He stated that controversial tax provisions in the finance bill are expected to be withdrawn, pending final approval by the Prime Minister.

“Some of our colleagues were initially dissatisfied,” he admitted, “but after a detailed four-hour discussion, consensus was reached. A joint committee of FBR and business representatives has been formed to resolve remaining concerns.”

Atif Ikram emphasized the importance of dialogue over shutdowns:

“Strikes aren’t the solution. Constructive negotiation is the way forward.”

Karachi Traders Defy FPCCI, Shut Down City

In direct opposition to the FPCCI’s stance, the Karachi Chamber of Commerce declared a city-wide shutter-down strike. President Javed Balwani criticized the FPCCI for not obtaining written guarantees and said:

“The Federation must take responsibility for fulfilling the promises it makes on behalf of traders. We were offered no documentation, so we are striking.”

As a result, dozens of key markets, including Saddar, Liaquatabad, Jodia Bazaar, Sarafa Bazaar, Grain Market, and even fruit & vegetable markets, remained completely shut. Nearly 50 trade associations and goods transporters supported the strike, bringing Karachi’s business and industrial activities to a standstill.

Factories in SITE, North Karachi, and Federal B Area also closed, with many industrialists joining the protest despite conflicting statements from organizations like APTMA, which claimed factory operations were largely unaffected.

Daily wage workers were seen gathered outside markets, dejected over loss of work.

Lahore Joins In With Full-Scale Shutdown

In solidarity, Lahore Chamber of Commerce also announced a strike. President Mian Abu Zar Shad said the government had broken promises and now must face the consequences. Business centers in Shah Alam Market, Railway Road, Misri Shah, Loha Market, Brand Rath Road, Rang Mahal, and Azam Cloth Market were closed, presenting a scene of complete inactivity.

Trader leader Mujahid Maqsood Butt said the strike had been made successful through unity and warned of extended protests if the harassment of traders continues.

Due to the strike, normal life was affected in both cities, with lower traffic volume and disruptions to shopping and transport services.

 
Tagged:

TaxReforms

LahoreProtest

TradersStrike

KarachiShuttersDown
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