ISLAMABAD: The Federal Board of Revenue (FBR) Chairman Malik Amjaz Zubair Tiwanais set to convene a pivotal meeting with traders in Karachi on September 1, 2023, according to official sources.
The impending meeting has been arranged as a response to the growing discontent among small traders and shopkeepers who have voiced their grievances over the soaring electricity bills. In a show of solidarity, these traders have declared a planned shutter-down protest scheduled for Friday, September 1, 2023.
High electricity bills have been a point of contention, with many experts attributing the issue to an array of taxes that have been imposed on consumers. The cumulative effect of these taxes has significantly increased the burden on electricity users.
Official sources have indicated that Chairman Tiwana intends to engage in a constructive dialogue with representatives of traders’ associations to address their concerns and explore potential solutions. The meeting is scheduled to take place at the Corporate Tax Office (CTO) in Karachi.
The forthcoming discussion between FBR officials and traders’ leaders holds the promise of shedding light on the complexities of taxation affecting electricity bills and, hopefully, finding a path towards resolving this pressing issue. It is anticipated that both parties will engage in a constructive exchange of ideas and concerns, seeking a viable resolution that can mitigate the financial strain imposed on businesses and consumers alike.
The meeting on September 1, 2023, is being closely watched as it has the potential to pave the way for a more equitable taxation system concerning electricity bills, offering relief to traders and consumers grappling with the economic impact of high energy costs.