President of the traders association Kashif Chaudhry has announced that traders across Pakistan will hold a nationwide shutterdown strike on August 28, citing the government's unwillingness to negotiate on key issues.
“The Federal Board of Revenue (FBR) has been in constant contact with me, but after two months of fruitless negotiations, we will no longer negotiate without concrete action," said Chaudhry.
The strike is a response to the government's refusal to withdraw the controversial dost scheme and provide a practical plan to revise agreements with Independent Power Producers (IPPs).
“We will not deposit advance tax under the business-friendly scheme until it is abolished," Chaudhry declared. He emphasized that without a notification from the government by the evening of August 28, negotiations will be off the table.
Chaudhry also highlighted that the strike has gained widespread support, not only from traders and industrialists but also from political parties and the general public. "The people, including political parties, stand with us against the government's oppressive policies," he added.
The strike is expected to be a significant show of unity from Pakistan's business community, as millions across the country prepare to join the protest against what they perceive as governmental abuse and economic mismanagement.
