PoGB Traders Protest Illegal Tax Collection at Sost Dry Port

Traders in Pakistan-occupied Gilgit Baltistan have been protesting for weeks over illegal tax collections at the Sost Dry Port, despite a court stay order. They demand the authorities resolve the issue or face major protests. The situation threatens to disrupt the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor.

A prolonged protest by traders in Pakistan-occupied Gilgit Baltistan (PoGB) over illegal tax collections at the Sost Dry Port has reached a critical juncture. Despite the PoGB chief court's stay order against collecting certain taxes, authorities continue to impose them. In a heated press conference on Wednesday night, the trade community issued an ultimatum: resolve the issue in two days or face a massive protest, WTV reported.

The press conference, led by Mauhaumad Javed, a former Member of the Legislative Assembly (MLA) of PoGB, accused the authorities of attempting to incite the traders into violence. 'Traders will not back down at any cost,' Javed asserted. 'The court's orders must be followed.'

The MLA warned of severe consequences if demands are not met, including blocking operations of the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) and the Sost Dry Port. He added that the taxation officers should vacate the premises if they cannot enforce legal standards. Corruption, bureaucratic inefficiencies, and frequent changes in tax policies exacerbate traders' difficulties, making compliance costly and complex. This standoff, if unresolved, could significantly impact Pakistan's trade dynamics with China.

(With inputs from agencies.)