The All Pakistan Traders Association has declared a nationwide protest scheduled for July 1st against the soaring electricity bills. Ajmal Baloch, president of the traders’ community, expressed concern over the affordability of electricity, citing charges of Rs3,000 for 200 units and Rs8,000 for 201 units. He criticized the fixed taxes ranging from Rs200 to Rs1,000 as unjustifiable.
Baloch demanded the elimination of seal taxes, income taxes, and the financing cost surcharge on electricity bills. He warned of a widespread protest by traders if their demands are not addressed. This announcement underscores mounting dissatisfaction among businesses regarding escalating electricity costs and taxes, which they argue are undermining their operational viability.
Earlier this month, the National Electric Power Regulatory Authority announced new electricity tariffs effective July 1st. These include fixed monthly charges across residential, commercial, and industrial sectors. Industrial consumers face increased fixed charges, with rates of Rs1000 for up to 25kW, Rs2000 for B2 category (up to 500kW), and also Rs2000 for B3 and B4 categories (5000kW and above).
On June 14th, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif announced a substantial reduction of Rs10.69 per unit in electricity tariffs for industries, aimed at revitalizing the sector and bolstering exports.
