Pakistan: Wholesale Grocers' Association to strike across Pakistan July 31-Aug. 2

The Wholesale Grocers' Association plans to strike across Pakistan July 31-Aug. 2, to demand the abolishment of the withholding tax. Unless averted, the work stoppage will almost certainly impact grain distribution across Pakistan, possibly causing food shortages in major urban centers like Karachi, Islamabad, and Lahore. The action may be called off at short notice if officials formally withdraw the tax plan or negotiations with union leaders succeed.

Strike participants will likely hold demonstrations as part of their action. Potential gathering sites include grain mills, prominent government buildings, public squares, and thoroughfares in major urban centers. Similar previous rallies have attracted hundreds of participants.

Authorities will likely monitor any demonstration that materializes and may disperse overly disruptive crowds. Clashes between police and striking workers cannot be ruled out. Demonstrators could march along or block roadways, prompting localized transport disruptions. Associated business disruptions are possible.