By Syed Shahabuddin
SWAT: Traders and industrial stakeholders in Malakand Division have announced a protest movement against the imposition of taxes in Malakand Division and the merged tribal areas.
They urged the government to immediately review its taxation policy in view of the region’s special constitutional and legal status.
Traders Demand Policy Review
Malakand Division Traders Federation President Abdur Rahim and Swat Chamber of Commerce President Noor Muhammad Khan expressed these views during a press conference.
Traders Federation spokesperson Dr. Khalid Mehmood, former chamber president Yousaf Ali, All Swat Hotels Association President Haji Zahid Khan, and other representatives were also present.
Industrial Sector Faces Pressure
The speakers said the federal government had imposed a 10 percent tax on industries in Malakand Division despite repeated protests, shutter-down strikes, and demonstrations in the past.
They claimed the tax had led to business closures and job losses for thousands of workers in the region.
They said the recent increase in the budget from 10 percent to 12 percent would further worsen the situation for local industries and traders.
Competitiveness And Inflation Concerns
The traders said local industries are losing competitiveness under the current tax regime compared to industries in other parts of the country.
They warned that any withdrawal of income tax exemptions would further burden traders, industrialists, and consumers.
They said such measures could lead to increased inflation and additional economic difficulties for people in Malakand Division and the merged tribal areas.
Protest Movement Warning
The traders demanded that the government consider the region’s special circumstances and immediately reconsider its taxation policy.
They warned that if their demands were not accepted, a protest movement would be launched across Malakand Division.
Today's E-Paper