Transporters announce nationwide shutter down strike in solidarity with business community

All major transport associations across Pakistan have announced a nationwide shutter down strike on July 19 in solidarity with the business community, particularly in support of the Karachi Chamber of Commerce and Industry (KCCI).

Speaking at a joint press conference held at the KCCI, Karachi Goods Carrier Association President Malik Sher Khan stated that no supply trucks or transport vehicles will operate anywhere in the country on July 19. The entire transport community stood with the business community. If the strike is extended, we are ready to continue our support.

Transport association leaders from across the country joined the press conference to show a united front, expressing full support for KCCI’s protest against Sections 37A and 37B of the Sales Tax Act included in the Finance Bill 2024-25, which they argue impose harsh and impractical conditions on businesses.

Read: Karachi's business community observes shutter down strike in solidarity with Palestine

KCCI President Javed Balwani emphasised that the strike can still be avertedaverted if the authorities fulfil their demands. 

"We have placed five key demands before the government. If the Finance Minister temporarily suspends these, we are ready to call off the strike," he said. 

Balwani noted that while both the Prime Minister's Office and the Ministry of Finance have contacted them for talks, Finance Minister Muhammad Aurangzeb has not met with them during his visit to Karachi.

He confirmed that the chamber is open to negotiations but warned that no breakthrough will occur unless the demands are immediately fulfilled. Transporters have pledged to stand firm even if the strike is prolonged.