FBR offers negotiations as traders prepare for nationwide protests

ISLAMABAD: The Federal Board of Revenue (FBR) has extended an olive branch to traders, inviting them for negotiations ahead of the planned nationwide strike on August 28, aimed at protesting the ‘Tajir Dost Scheme.’

Naeem Mir, Chief Coordinator of the FBR’s Trader-Friendly Scheme, confirmed that the FBR has reached out to trader representatives to address their grievances.

According to Mir, following the Chairman’s instructions, the Member Operations contacted trader leaders by phone, inviting them to a meeting at the FBR headquarters in Islamabad on August 27 at 3 PM to discuss possible amendments to the Trader-Friendly Scheme’s SRO. He expressed hope that the traders would respond positively to this gesture.

Mir stressed that the country cannot afford the disruptions caused by strikes and protests, reiterating the FBR’s commitment to resolving all issues through dialogue. He assured that the traders’ legitimate demands would be considered and addressed.

This move comes as traders across the country gear up for a nationwide strike in protest against the government’s tax policies and economic management. The strike, set for August 28, has gained considerable momentum, with numerous trader associations expressing their support.

Among the traders’ key grievances is the imposition of income tax on property, which they view as unprecedented and unjust. They also criticise the government’s inability to curb its own spending amidst the economic downturn, which has hit businesses hard.

Mir underscored that the FBR is eager to resolve these issues and reach a mutually beneficial solution. The outcome of the upcoming negotiations will be critical in determining whether the strike will proceed or if a resolution can be found to avoid widespread disruption.

The discussions are expected to have significant implications for the country’s economic stability and the future relationship between the government and the trading community.

No negotiations: Markazi Anjuman-e-Tajiran Pakistan to proceed with planned protest

However, the Markazi Anjuman-e-Tajiran Pakistan has stated that no negotiations have taken place with the FBR, and the strike against the “Tajir Dost Scheme” will go ahead as planned.

Kashif Chaudhry, President of the Markazi Anjuman-e-Tajiran Pakistan, voiced the traders’ determination to proceed with the strike, despite the government’s attempts at dialogue. He criticized the government’s tax policies, which he claimed have placed an unbearable burden on the business community, and emphasized that the strike is necessary to protect businesses and the economy.

The traders argue that the advance taxes imposed under the so-called “Tajir Dost Scheme,” along with broader economic mismanagement, have led to skyrocketing costs of doing business. The strike aims to highlight these issues and push for immediate relief from the government.

The outcome of the strike will be closely watched, as it could have significant implications for the country’s economic stability and the relationship between the government and the trading community.

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