Pakistan: Rise in professional tax for businesses in Rawalpindi sparks outrage

Islamabad [Pakistan], December 6 (ANI): The government has announced a rise in professional taxes for businesses in the Rawalpindi division, sparking outrage from traders, The Express Tribune reported.
Tax bills ranging from Pakistani Rupees (PKR) 50,000 to PKR 0.2 million have been sent to shopkeepers, causing protests from trade associations.
The Markazi Anjuman Tajran, the central body of traders, has asked shopkeepers not to pay the "unjustified" rise in tax. They stressed that the government's decision is particularly alarming for milk and yoghurt sellers in upscale areas of Rawalpindi, who now face an annual tax of PKR 200,000.
Small businesses, including grocery stores, barbers, welders, general stores, tent services, and food outlets, are now required to pay taxes ranging from Rs30,000 to Rs50,000 annually, according to The Express Tribune report.
Trade leaders have expressed outrage over the decision announced by the government. Markazi Anjuman Tajran president Sharjeel Mir, said, "Previously, professional taxes were between PKR 1,500 and PKR 3,000 annually. Now they have skyrocketed to unbearable levels."
Kiriana Merchants Association President Salim Parvez Butt termed PKR 200,000 tax on milk sellers "cruel and absurd." He further said, "These vendors sell milk and yoghurt, not drugs."
The traders accused government officials of exploiting small shopkeepers while continuing their lavish lifestyles. Mir said, "Instead of burdening us, they should cut their lavish expenses on luxury vehicles and free utilities," The Express Tribune reported.
The Markazi Anjuman Tajran has plans to meet with the ETO Professional Tax office to demand the reversal of the decision. Mir has warned to launch a complete strike across Punjab if old rates are not reinstated. (ANI)