A nationwide strike by traders on Saturday triggered widespread shutdowns of major markets across Pakistan, as protests intensified against the Federal Board of Revenue’s (FBR) recently expanded enforcement powers. While most urban centers witnessed partial to complete business closures, Islamabad remained unaffected, with routine commercial activity continuing in the federal capital, Express News reported.
The protest has exposed a sharp divide among trader groups, with varying levels of participation observed in different regions. However, in key cities like Karachi, Lahore, Hyderabad, Quetta, and Peshawar, traders observed near-complete shutdowns in defiance of what they term as “harassment” by the FBR.
In Karachi, major commercial hubs — including Jodia Bazaar, electronics and mobile markets, and wholesale fruit and vegetable markets — remained shuttered. The strike was bolstered by support from the All Pakistan Restaurants Association and local transport unions.
Karachi Chamber of Commerce and Industry (KCCI) President Jawed Bilwani reiterated his organization’s backing of the strike.
“No written assurances had been received from the government,” he said, warning that protests would escalate if demands were not met in upcoming negotiations.
In Lahore, commercial centers such as Shah Alam Market, Akbari Mandi, Hall Road, Mall Road, and Anarkali observed full closures. All major trader unions and the Lahore Chamber of Commerce supported the strike.
Traders’ leader Haji Maqsood Butt declared the protest a resounding success.
“We are united, and we reject forced compliance,” he stated. “If the FBR continues to harass traders or exert unjustified authority, further action will be taken.”
In Hyderabad, several markets including Anaj Mandi, Resham Bazaar, and Gul Centre were entirely closed, while some others saw partial activity. Peshawar and Quetta mirrored this trend with both full and partial closures across business districts.
Traders across the country are demanding the reversal of the FBR’s recently enhanced enforcement mandate and are calling for formal, written guarantees of future policy reforms. They argue that the increased regulatory authority undermines business autonomy and creates an atmosphere of coercion.
As talks loom between traders and government officials, the standoff is expected to continue unless concrete assurances are delivered.
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