Traders in Pakistan have issued a warning to the government, threatening a nationwide protest if the recent increase in petroleum prices is not reversed. They have also demanded an end to the crackdown on bakers, emphasizing the vital role of the business community in the country’s economy. The call for action was made by All Pakistan Anjuman-i-Tajran President Ajmal Baloch during a press conference at the National Press Club.
Baloch highlighted the challenges faced by bakers who are grappling with rising costs of essential supplies like flour and LPG cylinders. He urged for a dialogue to establish fair pricing for staple foods like naan and roti and appealed for the release of detained traders. Additionally, he criticized the disparity between the government’s austerity measures and the privileges enjoyed by the elite, calling for an end to subsidies on fuel, electricity, and official vehicles for the wealthy.
The Capital Naanbai Association President, Sajjad Ali Abbasi, echoed concerns over the unfair treatment of traders by authorities. He pointed out the significant surge in prices of essential commodities, such as flour and LPG cylinders, which have put additional pressure on bakers. Despite these challenges, bakers have been striving to maintain affordable bread prices, even as several of them have been arrested in recent crackdowns.
The discontent among traders and bakers follows the government’s announcement of substantial hikes in fuel prices, including a 43% increase in petrol rates and a 55% surge in high-speed diesel costs. The adjustments in petroleum levy rates were aimed at mitigating the impact on transportation and freight expenses, with petrol levies raised and diesel levies eliminated to stabilize prices.
