Talks between traders, FBR fail to make headway

APAT adamant to hold shutter down on Oct 29, 30 over CNIC condition

ISLAMABAD: The dialogue between the All Pakistan Anjuman-e-Tajran (APAT) and the Federal Board of Revenue on Sunday over the Computerised National Identity Cards (CNIC) condition failed to make headway as the former decided to continue with its shutter-down strike scheduled for October 29 and 30.

“The CNIC condition is very complex and impossible; therefore, the FBR should have thought before making an agreement with the International Monetary Fund,” said APAT President Ajmal Baloch.

He said the shutter down would be held in the country, including Islamabad, Gilgit-Baltistan and Azad Kashmir, under any circumstances on October 29 and 30.

Traders to go on two-day strike in the capital

“We are not saying no to negotiations, but the FBR chairman first said that they are introducing fixed tax and then after two hours, changes his statement,” said Baloch.

He said the IMF should also negotiate with the representatives of trader associations in Pakistan. “The IMF should consider the literacy rate of Pakistan before making an agreement with the government,” said Baloch, adding that while making a deal with the IMF, the FBR should also consider that the trader of Pakistan does not understand complex documentation.

“The strict conditions of the IMF have destroyed the country’s business,” said Baloch.

Since July 1, the wheel of business had stopped churning due to which the traders were concerned, he said, urging the government to understand the fact that if businesses do not run, they would not be able to collect tax.