Islamabad, Pakistan — Traders across Pakistan have announced countrywide protests on January 16 against the government’s mandatory Point of Sale (POS) machine directive, warning that failure to address their demands could trigger a wider shutdown of markets and business centres nationwide. The announcement reflects growing frustration among the business community over what they describe as unfair taxation measures and operational burdens.
The call for protests emerged after a large rally in Islamabad, where shopkeepers and representatives of trade associations marched from Aabpara Chowk to old Embassy Road, voicing their opposition to the POS requirement. Police prevented the demonstrators from entering the Red Zone, prompting the crowd to hold their protest near Serena Hotel, drawing participants from Islamabad, Rawalpindi, and surrounding districts.
Leaders of the movement, including the All Pakistan Anjuman-i-Tajran and Traders Action Committee (TAC), argue that mandatory POS machines will impose significant financial and operational pressures on small businesses. They claim the devices could be misused by authorities to harass traders and target them for alleged tax irregularities, making day-to-day operations difficult for thousands of shopkeepers and small enterprises.
TAC President Ajmal Baloch described the POS directive as a “black law” and criticised the Federal Board of Revenue (FBR) for alleged corruption and arbitrary enforcement practices. Protest leaders warned that if authorities attempt to seal businesses or force POS compliance, traders will respond with strong resistance, signalling a potential escalation in tensions.
As part of their campaign, traders have announced plans to block major routes such as Kashmir Highway and stage a sit-in at Zero Point if the government does not withdraw the mandate. Leaders also hinted that continued inaction could lead to a nationwide shutter-down strike, effectively pausing commercial activity across cities to press the government into negotiations.
Analysts suggest that the protest could have far-reaching economic implications, as traders in Pakistan’s key urban centres play a critical role in supply chains, consumer markets, and employment. The government’s response in the coming days will likely determine whether the dispute escalates or a compromise is reached before the January 16 deadline.
For traders, the issue goes beyond business operations, touching on financial security, fairness in taxation, and the sustainability of small enterprises. The upcoming demonstrations are expected to draw significant attention from political leaders, media, and the public, highlighting the deepening rift between the government and the business community.
This story has been reported by PakTribune. All rights reserved.