Markets in major cities such as Lahore, Islamabad, and Karachi have exhibited a mixed response to the shutter-down strike called by trader organizations protesting the introduction of new taxes. While leading markets are closed, many businesses continue to operate as usual.

The government’s tax reforms have sparked significant outrage among business owners, leading them to take to the streets. Some political parties, including Jamaat-e-Islami and other associations, have voiced their support for the protests.

Read more: JI Calls for Nationwide Shutdown on August 28 Against Inflation

This development follows a meeting between trader representatives and the Federal Board of Revenue (FBR), during which traders expressed their dissatisfaction with the Tajir Dost Scheme.

The aggressive taxation measures pose a significant challenge for the ruling PML-N and its coalition partner, PPP, particularly since many of the protesting traders have political connections with these parties. Meanwhile, opposition groups such as JUI-F, Jamaat-i-Islami, and Awami National Party have declared their support for the traders.

The country’s top tax authority is open to addressing the legitimate concerns raised during the meeting and is willing to modify the SRO to accommodate these issues.

The Karachi Chamber of Commerce and Industry (KCCI) has also backed the strike by closing businesses to pressure the government into withdrawing the Tajir Dost Scheme and addressing inflated bills.