Karachi, July 14, 2025 – In a defiant and high-voltage press conference, Karachi Chamber of Commerce and Industry (KCCI) President Muhammad Jawed Bilwani declared that the business community will not back down from the strike scheduled for July 19 unless the government immediately suspends the “anti-business” provisions introduced in the Finance Act 2025. The message was loud and clear: no rollback, no compromise.
Flanked by a formidable alliance of transport leaders and business stakeholders, Bilwani sent shockwaves through economic and political corridors, announcing a complete halt to trade and transport across Pakistan. He warned that unless the government withdraws the five major controversial tax measures and addresses 32 anomalies in the new legislation, the strike will proceed with “full force, full unity, and full shutdown.”
The fiery press conference was attended by senior KCCI leadership and representatives of over a dozen goods transporters’ associations. From Islamabad to Karachi, the alliance promised an unprecedented show of solidarity. “No vehicle will move on July 19,” declared Bilwani, adding that the strike will bring economic activities nationwide to a complete standstill.
Bilwani reiterated his call for the immediate suspension of Sections 37A and 37B of the Finance Act, which allow arbitrary arrests by FBR officials; Section 21(S), penalizing cash transactions over Rs. 200,000; mandatory digital invoicing under SRO 709; the controversial E-Bilty regulation under Section 40(C); and the dismantling of the Final Tax Regime for exporters. He made it clear: “The business community will only return to the table once these unjust measures are rolled back.”
The transport sector, led by Pakistan Goods Transport Alliance Chairman Malik Shahzad Awan, and other key stakeholders from the trucking industry, pledged full, strike-level commitment. “We stand united with Bilwani and KCCI,” said Awan. “This isn’t just a business issue—it’s a fight for economic survival.”
Amid media queries about government negotiations, Bilwani confirmed backchannel talks with the Ministry of Finance, but expressed frustration over the absence of any formal assurance. “We are ready for a dialogue, but the government must first suspend these laws,” he asserted. Until then, the strike stands—unshakable and unmovable.
The KCCI president also exposed the inefficiencies of the FBR’s enforcement division, revealing that despite repeated requests, no data had been shared on new taxpayer additions. He called into question the competence of the finance leadership, urging the government to re-evaluate whether current policies are rescuing or ruining the economy.
Zubair Motiwala, Chairman of the Businessmen Group (BMG), echoed Bilwani’s resolve, stressing that the business community was left with no other option. “We don’t want strikes, but the government has forced our hand. The July 19 strike is inevitable, and it will be historic.”
With unwavering support from over 50 business and industrial bodies nationwide, the stage is now set for what could be Pakistan’s most consequential strike in years. The countdown has begun—and Bilwani is leading from the front.