Pakistan: Industrialists to stage strike across Sindh, Balochistan, and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa provinces Dec. 4

Industrialists affiliated with multiple associations are planning to stage a strike in Sindh and Balochistan provinces on Dec. 4 to demand several concessions and denounce various issues, including increased natural gas prices. The Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Textile Mills Association (KPTMA) will also reportedly hold a work stoppage in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Province on the same day; additional labor actions could occur in other parts of Pakistan on Dec. 4.

Unless averted, the strike activity will likely cause disruptions to business operations in the manufacturing sector, among others. Strike organizers have threatened to escalate the labor action by halting their export operations if their demands remain unmet. A protracted work stoppage has the potential to significantly affect business operations in closely linked sectors that rely on resources from the industries participating in the strike. Industrial association leaders may suspend the planned strike activity on short notice if they perceive that the government will meet their demands on or before Dec. 4.

Related demonstrations of varying types are possible. Potential rally sites include manufacturing facilities, police stations, government buildings, press clubs, public squares, and thoroughfares. Authorities will likely maintain an increased security presence near any such rallies that materialize. Isolated clashes between police and activists cannot be ruled out. Associated localized transport disruptions are likely.