What they call “anti-business” taxation policies introduced in the 2025-26 Finance Act. The Karachi and Lahore Chambers of Commerce jointly called the strike, which was one of the biggest business community protests in recent memory.

Almost 90% of commercial activity ceased in Karachi. Fruit and vegetable markets, stores, businesses, and wholesale markets were all shut down. All seven industrial zones saw a full halt in industrial production, and no export shipments were delivered to the port. The supply of imported raw materials and completed goods was disrupted when goods carriers joined the walkout.

There were noticeable hiccups in the flow of cargo, despite port officials  claims that everything was operating normally.

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 Although port officials claimed operations were normal, there were clear disruptions in cargo movement. Karachi Chamber President Jawed Bilwani stated this was a historic, unified protest, and emphasized that it was not an act of rebellion but a last resort after being ignored repeatedly by the government.

Traders are demanding the suspension of Sections 37A and 37B of the Sales Tax Act, which allow arrests without due process, and Section 21(s), which penalizes cash transactions. They also want the Final Tax Regime for exporters restored and object to new systems like e-invoicing, e-Bilty, and high taxes on rent and large transactions.

Despite holding discussions with government officials including SAPM Haroon Akhtar and FBR Chairman Rashid Langrial, traders say they only received verbal promises and no written guarantees.

In Lahore, a complete closure was seen in major markets such as Shah Alam, Hall Road, Anarkali, Urdu Bazaar, and Azam Cloth Market. LCCI President Mian Abuzar Shad called the strike a “defining moment for economic justice,” saying 60% of Pakistan’s economy was intentionally shut down to send a strong message.

In contrast, Islamabad and Rawalpindi did not participate in the strike, opting to wait for outcomes of recent government assurances. However, Ajmal Baloch of All Pakistan Anjuman Tajiran announced a nationwide protest campaign starting July 26 if demands remain unmet.