Traders’ strike called off after breakthrough talks between FPCCI, Govt

August 04, 2025 (MLN): The nationwide traders' strike has officially been called off after successful negotiations between the Federation of Pakistan Chambers of Commerce & Industry (FPCCI) and top government officials.

Acting FPCCI President Zaki Ejaz informed this breakthrough during a press conference, which highlighted key reforms achieved through engagement with the Prime Minister, five federal ministers, and representatives of the Special Investment Facilitation Council (SIFC).

Issues surrounding mandatory invoicing and the threshold for cash transactions exceeding Rs200,000 have been resolved. Any deposit, regardless of amount, will now be treated as a legitimate bank transaction.

A new high-level committee, constituted on August 1, will oversee enforcement actions. No arrests or inquiries can proceed without its prior approval.

Sales tax will only apply if a formal invoice is issued against the amount, protecting traders from arbitrary assessments.

Additional notifications addressing budget anomalies are expected by Monday, according to Ejaz.

FPCCI and other leading chambers across Pakistan jointly represented the business community, engaging in rigorous consultations from June 11 to July 30 to protect economic interests and avoid disruption.

Ejaz emphasized the need for immediate reduction in interest rates to inject vitality into the economy.

He also confirmed that top-tier chambers are aligned in their support for the resolution.

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