Traders in Gilgit Baltistan Protest Against Unfair Taxes at Sost Border
On July 28, traders from Pakistan-occupied Gilgit Baltistan (PoGB) staged a sit-in at the National Logistics Corporation (NLC) Dry Port in Sost. They demanded the proper implementation of a court order that stops the collection of sales and income taxes from local importers and exporters.
The PoGB Chief Court had issued a stay order to halt tax collection until a final decision is made. However, traders claim that customs officials and the Federal Bureau of Revenue (FBR) are delaying the order’s enforcement. This protest has stopped all trading activities at the port.
One trader stated, “For the last eight months, our goods-filled containers have been sitting around the port, and the authorities have not responded adequately. Hence, we had to protest.”
Another trader added, “Just to facilitate other ports, they are doing all this. This will affect not only our trade but also employment. We had warned that there would be a protest after Muharram but they did not listen.”
The traders have threatened to block the Karakoram Highway if their demands are not met and are prepared to claim refunds for the taxes they have paid.
Doubts Revealed
Gilgit Baltistan -: Gilgit Baltistan is a region in the northern part of Pakistan. It is known for its beautiful mountains and valleys.
Sost Border -: Sost is a town near the border between Pakistan and China. It has a dry port where goods are traded between the two countries.
NLC Dry Port -: NLC Dry Port is a place where goods are stored and checked before they are transported. NLC stands for National Logistics Cell, a Pakistani organization that manages transport and logistics.
PoGB -: PoGB stands for Pakistan-occupied Gilgit Baltistan. It refers to the part of Gilgit Baltistan that is controlled by Pakistan.
Chief Court -: The Chief Court is a high-level court in Gilgit Baltistan. It makes important legal decisions for the region.
Stay Order -: A stay order is a legal decision that temporarily stops something from happening. In this case, it stops the collection of certain taxes.
Sales and Income Taxes -: Sales tax is money paid when you buy something, and income tax is money paid on the money you earn. The traders are protesting against these taxes.
Customs Officials -: Customs officials are people who check goods at borders to make sure they follow the rules. They also collect taxes on these goods.
Karakoram Highway -: The Karakoram Highway is a major road that connects Pakistan and China. It goes through the mountains and is important for trade.