Flour Mills Across Pakistan Go on Strike, Wheat Supply Disruption Feared

Karachi: Flour mills across Pakistan, including Karachi, have initiated a nationwide strike today, raising concerns over potential wheat shortages due to halted supplies. The Pakistan Flour Mills Association has announced the strike in protest against the imposition of withholding tax, suspending wheat grinding operations nationwide.
Chairman of Pakistan Flour Mills Association South, Aamir Abdullah, stated that the indefinite strike will impact wheat supply in Karachi and throughout the country. He expressed that during this period, the supply of bran and fodder for livestock will also be severely affected.
Aamir Abdullah highlighted that the introduction of withholding tax will increase the price of wheat by 8 to 10 rupees per kilogram. He emphasized that flour mills will continue their strike until their demand regarding the suspension of the tax is met, clarifying that they are not authorized to collect taxes; it is the government’s responsibility.
Meanwhile, concerns have risen across the country over potential wheat crises as flour mills cease operations due to the strike.
In Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, more than 250 flour mills, owned by flour mill owners, have shut down, following the announcement of a strike against recent increases in withholding taxes. This action has not only halted wheat grinding but also disrupted wheat processing and supply in the market.
Outside flour mills, banners protesting the closure and advocating for the strike are displayed, with flour shop owners also joining in protest.
Group Leader of the Flour Mills Association, Muhammad Naeem Butt, asserted that the strike will continue indefinitely until the federal government ends the withholding tax on wheat, addresses the recent increase in electricity bills, and lifts restrictions on the free movement of wheat from Punjab.
This strike has significant implications for Pakistan’s food supply chain, prompting concerns over potential price hikes and availability of essential wheat products in the market.