Cargo agents nationwide have gone on indefinite strike for an unlimited period against imposing an eight percent turnover tax on the loading industry. They have taken to the streets and are attempting to impose a blockade on the cargo terminals of ports and airports throughout Pakistan.
The leaders of the Air Cargo Agents Association of Pakistan and the Pakistan Intl Freight Forwarders Association demanded that the government immediately return the new tax, keeping in view the livelihood of about one million employees attached to the cargo business.
The ACCP (Air Traffic Cargo Association) and PIFFA (Pakistan International Freight Forwarders Association) have supported the strike call and have joined TAAP (Travel Ag Association of Pakistan).
The protesters have taken to the roads and have blocked the ports and the cargo terminals of various airports to hamper the free movement of goods. And as a last resort have also threatened to block the passenger terminals of different airports.
The Karachi chapters of the various associations are due to address a press conference at 5 PM today at the Karachi Press club. Govt notice regarding the increase in the tax rate
It is pertinent to note that Karachi already has a severe petrol shortage as the Oil Tankers association has gone on strike against the increase in taxes.
Also Read:Oil Tankers Association strike: Petrol crisis in Karachi