Nationwide Shutter-Down Strike on July 19 Still On, Confirms Trade Bodies

KARACHI:The **Federation of Pakistan Chambers of Commerce & Industry (FPCCI)** and the **Karachi Chamber of Commerce & Industry (KCCI)** have **reaffirmed** that the **nationwide shutter-down strike scheduled for Saturday, July 19**, remains in effect and **has not been postponed or cancelled**.

In a statement, **FPCCI Senior Vice President Saqib Nisar** said that consultations with the business community are ongoing, and a **final decision on any changes** to the strike plan will be made today. However, **as of now, the strike call stands firm**.

Meanwhile, **KCCI President Muhammad Javed Bilwani** dismissed all rumors suggesting the strike had been called off. He asserted that **“The strike on July 19 will proceed as planned. It will neither be delayed nor cancelled.”**

Bilwani emphasized that the strike will be **implemented with full preparation**, and the decision has been made in consultation with **major chambers across all four provinces**. If a postponement is ever considered, he said, it would only happen after **collective agreement** from all involved chambers.

He also criticized those **spreading misinformation**, stating that **“such individuals have no connection with the business community or the planned strike.”**

### 🔍 **Background:**

The **strike has been called in protest** against recent **tax reforms and other issues** facing the trader community. The move has gained **widespread support** from businesses across the country.

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