MULTAN: The Pakistan Cotton Ginners Association (PCGA) has initiated a nationwide strike, halting cotton (phutti) purchases across the country.
This move comes as a result of decisions made in the association’s recent general body meeting.
The PCGA has outlined its demands on panaflexes and banners displayed outside ginning factories. The association has resolved to continue the strike until these demands are met.
Key demands of the PCGA include:
1. Sales Tax Abolition: Complete elimination of the sales tax on cottonseed (khalli) and seed (binola).
2. Reversal of Electricity Charges: Immediate reversal of the recent increase in fixed electricity charges.
3. Concessional Electricity Rates: Ginning sector to be treated as an integral part of the textile industry, thereby qualifying for concessional electricity rates.
4. Electricity Connection Policy: Adherence to the previous connection and disconnection policy without any changes.
5. Waiver of Charges During Disconnection: Exemption from fixed and capacity charges during periods of electricity disconnection.
6. Tax Exemptions: Removal of excise, highway, and property taxes imposed on the ginning industry.
7. Highway Tax Adjustments: Highway tax levied by the National Highway Authority (NHA) should be based on the working days and vehicle movement of the ginning factories, rather than an annual basis.
8. Implementation of Cotton Control Act: Ensuring full and strict implementation of the Cotton Control Act.
The PCGA asserts that these demands are essential for the sustainability and profitability of the ginning industry. Secretary General Zakir Ullah Khalidi has urged immediate action to address these critical issues.
