ISLAMABAD: The government’s negotiations with the Federation of Pakistan Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FPCCI) ended positively on Friday, leading to a decision to postpone the nationwide shutter-down strike originally planned for Saturday. Despite this, the Karachi Chamber of Commerce and Industry (KCCI) remains firm on proceeding with the strike due to lingering issues with the Finance Act 2025.
A government-formed special committee, led by PM’s Special Assistant on Industries Haroon Akhtar, met with traders and chamber representatives to discuss the act. Significant progress was made, including consensus on several amendments. Notably, Clause 9—strongly opposed by the business community—was removed, and Article 37A is under further review.
While FPCCI President Atif Ikram Sheikh expressed gratitude for the government’s constructive engagement and announced the strike cancellation, KCCI President Jawed Bilwani stated that no written confirmation of the agreed amendments had been received. As a result, KCCI plans to go ahead with the Karachi strike, with possible escalation to multiple days or even a week-long protest. Bilwani also claimed that chambers from cities including Lahore, Faisalabad, Multan, Sialkot, and Peshawar support the strike.
The FPCCI emphasized its commitment to peaceful resolution and announced the creation of a four-member committee, including FBR and industry representatives, to address pending concerns. While the national strike has been called off, localized protests may still occur as dialogues continue.
