Transporters oppose daily fuel-price revisions and a 7% withholding tax, while the government has invited their representatives for talks on Monday.
ISLAMABAD, PAKISTAN — WEB DESK: Goods transporters across Pakistan have launched an indefinite nationwide strike over rising fuel costs, daily revisions in petroleum prices and taxes they say are increasing the financial burden on the transport sector.
The strike began on Saturday, August 8, after negotiations between transport representatives and government officials failed to produce an agreement.
Transporters oppose daily fuel-price revisions
The All Pakistan Goods Transport Alliance is protesting against increases in petrol and diesel prices and the government’s mechanism for determining petroleum prices on a daily basis.
Transporters argue that frequent price adjustments make it difficult to calculate freight costs and manage operating expenses.
The alliance has also demanded the withdrawal of a 7% withholding tax imposed on the transport sector.
Government invites transporters for talks
The federal government has invited representatives of the transport alliance for negotiations on Monday.
Alliance President Malik Shahzad Awan said a committee has been formed to represent transporters during the talks. He indicated that the strike would remain in place until the government meeting takes place and the alliance decides its next course of action.
Earlier negotiations with officials at the commissioner’s office failed to resolve the dispute, prompting transporters to proceed with the nationwide shutdown.
Transporters seek relief from taxes and tolls
In addition to fuel-price concerns, transporters are seeking relief from taxes, toll charges, fines and certain vehicle-related regulations.
The alliance has argued that rising fuel and other operating costs are putting additional pressure on freight operators.
Transport representatives have also called for changes to vehicle weight limits and relief in diesel and toll charges.
Strike could affect supply chains
An extended nationwide strike by goods carriers could disrupt the movement of commodities and industrial supplies across Pakistan.
The transport sector plays a central role in moving agricultural produce, industrial raw materials, fuel and consumer goods between ports, markets and production centres. A prolonged stoppage could therefore place additional pressure on supply chains.
For now, attention is focused on Monday’s government-transporter talks, which could determine whether the strike is called off or continues.
The transporters have not announced a fixed end date and say their future course will be decided after negotiations with the government.
