Nationwide Wheel-Jam Strike Announced by KCCI Against Finance Act 2025

The Karachi Chamber of Commerce and Industry (KCCI), together with goods transport organizations from across Pakistan, has declared a nationwide wheel-jam strike slated for July 19. This action is in protest of the Finance Act 2025. They cautioned the government that if these contentious financial measures are not immediately put on hold, economic activities could face a complete shutdown.

KCCI’s Stance

During a press briefing held at KCCI on Monday, President Muhammad Jawed Bilwani reiterated the business sector’s strong opposition to five significant measures and 32 irregularities present within the Finance Act.

He insisted that the federal administration formally suspend these clauses via an official notification as a prerequisite for any discussions.

Unified Front

“The entire business and transport community stands united,” Bilwani stated, accompanied by transport leaders representing Karachi, Lahore, and other areas. “No vehicle will move on July 19. This is more than just a strike; it’s a desperate measure for economic survival.”

  • Immediate withdrawal of Sections 37A and 37B of the Sales Tax Act, which grant FBR officials arrest powers without a warrant.
  • Repeal of Section 21(S), which sanctions cash transactions exceeding Rs200,000.
  • Revocation of SRO 709, which mandates digital invoicing.
  • Reconsideration of Section 40C regarding e-Bilty.
  • Reinstatement of the Final Tax Regime for exporters.

He mentioned that despite the Finance Ministry’s attempts to engage KCCI in negotiations, no official assurances or written notifications have been provided thus far.

“We have been clear: unless these provisions are officially suspended, dialogue is impossible, and the strike will proceed as planned,” he emphasized.

Transporters’ Solidarity

Transporters, including representatives from the Pakistan Goods Transport Alliance and various carrier associations, have pledged their full support to the KCCI, confirming a nationwide suspension of all goods movement.

Chairman of the Businessmen Group (BMG), Zubair Motiwala, who was also at the press conference, remarked, “Strikes are not our preferred method, but the government’s lack of attention has left us with no alternative. This is now a battle for economic existence.”

Responding to a query about national unity, Bilwani revealed that over 50 trade and industrial associations across Pakistan have officially backed KCCI’s position.

He criticized the FBR’s enforcement track record and demanded accountability within the Finance Ministry.

“The nation cannot sustain these policies that harm businesses. We implore the government to take action before the damage becomes irreparable,” Bilwani concluded.

With strong alignment between the business and transport sectors, the impending strike on July 19 is anticipated to severely disrupt supply chains and business activities across the country.

LCCI’s Parallel Announcement

Separately, the Lahore Chamber of Commerce and Industry (LCCI) has also announced a nationwide strike for July 19, protesting Section 37AA of the Income Tax Ordinance, taxes levied on bank transactions, and Punjab’s proposed labor policy, which LCCI has labeled as “anti-business.”

During a press conference at LCCI headquarters, President Mian Abuzar Shad cautioned that the recent financial measures would significantly harm businesses, increase joblessness, and erode investor confidence.

He denounced the extensive authority granted to FBR officials and criticized economic policymaking that occurs without consulting business stakeholders.

The LCCI demanded the immediate cancellation of the proposed measures and an end to what they described as the “economic victimisation” of the business community.

Business chambers and trade bodies from various regions of the country have voiced their support for both KCCI and LCCI, paving the way for an extensive halt to commercial and transport operations on July 19.