Traders to go on nationwide strike today

Lahore: The All Pakistan Anjuman Tajran (APAT) announced that a complete countrywide shutter-down strike would be observed on August 28 on Wednesday (today) in protest against the government's "unfair tax" under the Tajir Dost scheme.

Ajmal Baloch, APAT's president, declared that traders will shut down businesses across the nation in defiance of these taxes.

Baloch criticized the government's negotiation attempts, calling them mere tactics to derail the strike.

He insisted that the government must revoke the controversial tax scheme, warning that a two-day strike would follow if their demands are not met.

Baloch also pointed out the severe financial challenges traders face, mentioning a 70 percent decline in business activity along with added burdens from valuation table taxes, escalating electricity bills, and shop rents.

JUI-F leader Maulana Fazlur Rehman has expressed his support for the strike and called on his party members to ensure their participation.