FPCCI Terms Govt Austerity Measures An Economic Curfew

News Desk
HYDERABAD: The Federation of Pakistan Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FPCCI) has launched a scathing critique of the federal government’s newly introduced austerity measures, denouncing the policy as an economic curfew that disproportionately burdens citizens while leaving wasteful public spending largely untouched. The rebuke comes in the wake of soaring fuel prices and strict administrative curbs.
In a formal statement issued on Saturday, FPCCI Executive Committee member Adeel Siddiqui detailed the sweeping restrictions approved by the prime minister.
These include a 50 percent reduction in petrol allocations for official vehicles, a strict ban on procuring new vehicles and durable goods, curtailment of foreign and business-class travel, halting government-funded seminars, and mandated early closures for commercial markets and wedding halls.
Mr Siddiqui argued that while these televised initiatives appear rigorous on paper, they remain fundamentally disconnected from ground realities, particularly regarding fuel consumption and soaring inflation. Highlighting the heavy tax burden on consumers, he pointed out that with petrol priced at Rs391 per litre and diesel at Rs425 per litre, the state collects a staggering Rs105.65 per litre in various taxes and levies, squeezing both businesses and the common man.
As commercial stakeholders demand a holistic review of fiscal policies, business leaders are urging the administration to engage in meaningful dialogue with trade bodies.
Analysts warn that unilateral restrictions without concurrent structural reforms could further stifle market activity and deepen economic stagnation across key urban centers.