Talks between the federal government and the Federation of Pakistan Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FPCCI) concluded positively on Friday, leading to the postponement of the countrywide shutter-down strike that was originally planned for Saturday.
However, the Karachi Chamber of Commerce and Industry (KCCI) has refused to withdraw its strike call, citing unresolved concerns over the Finance Act 2025.
The government formed a special committee, chaired by Haroon Akhtar, Special Assistant to the Prime Minister on Industries, to address traders’ grievances. During negotiations, significant progress was made, including a decision to remove Clause 9 of the act, one of the most contentious issues for the business community. A proposal to amend Article 37A was also tabled for further review.
Despite these assurances, KCCI President Javed Bilwani stated that no written confirmation was provided.
“Our demands were largely accepted, but without a written guarantee, we will continue with the strike. Businesses in Karachi will remain closed tomorrow,” Bilwani warned, adding that KCCI is prepared to escalate the strike to multiple days per week if necessary.
Bilwani claimed that chambers in Lahore, Multan, Faisalabad, Sialkot, Peshawar, and other cities would also participate in the protest, showing widespread support from the business community.
In contrast, FPCCI President Atif Ikram Sheikh expressed satisfaction with the outcome of the talks and announced the cancellation of the nationwide strike.
“We appreciate the seriousness of the government in addressing our concerns. FPCCI seeks dialogue, not confrontation,” Sheikh said.
A four-member committee—comprising two officials from the Federal Board of Revenue (FBR), one FPCCI representative, and one from the affected industries—will now oversee any remaining disputes and establish a formal grievance redressal mechanism.
While FPCCI confirmed that the nationwide strike has been halted, localized protests may still take place, particularly in Karachi where KCCI remains firm on its decision.
