Karachi: The Federal Board of Revenue (FBR) has recently issued a notification instructing traders in Karachi to pay an advance tax of Rs 60,000 per month under the newly introduced Tajir Dost Scheme.
The regional tax office of FBR in Karachi has directed shopkeepers to ensure the advance tax is paid by the 15th of each month.
The FBR claims that the Tajir Dost Scheme is aimed at simplifying tax compliance for traders, intending to make the tax process more streamlined and efficient.
However, the notice has sparked significant concern among the business community, particularly in busy markets such as Liaquatabad and the electronics market.
The scheme, which mandates a substantial monthly tax, has added to the already existing financial strain on businesses in Karachi.
Traders argue that this additional burden is unjust, especially during challenging economic times.
The business community has expressed strong opposition to the scheme and has decided to resist the tax payments.
In response to the FBR’s decision, traders announced a nationwide strike set for August 28. The All Pakistan Anjuman-e-Tajiran, in a joint press conference with other trade associations, demanded the immediate withdrawal of the Tajir Dost Scheme, labeling it “unacceptable.”
The traders also called for the reversal of heavy taxes on the export sector and the recent increase in income tax slabs for salaried individuals and business owners.
The growing unrest among Karachi’s business community highlights the broader discontent with the government’s approach to taxation and economic policy.
As the nationwide strike looms, the FBR faces mounting pressure to reconsider the Tajir Dost Scheme and address the concerns of traders across the country.