Petroleum Dealers Threatens Nationwide Shutdown on July 5

The Pakistan Petroleum Dealers Association (PPDA) has warned that they will shut down petrol stations across the country on July 5 if the advance tax is not refunded.

During a press conference, PPDA chairman Abdul Samad Khan expressed concern over the 0.5% advance turnover tax included in the Finance Bill, stating that it makes operating petrol pumps unsustainable. He urged the government to review and eliminate this tax immediately, or dealers would have no choice but to close their businesses.

Khan emphasized that the interests of oil marketing companies are of utmost importance to the dealers. He criticized the government for imposing excessive taxes, which have led to a decline in petroleum sales, and accused the government of supporting smuggling while threatening those who oppose it.

He noted that taxes are already levied on every transaction involving petroleum products and claimed that the Prime Minister insists on implementing these taxes out of necessity.

The PPDA delegation is scheduled to meet with the Finance Minister, Petroleum Minister, and FBR Chairman in Islamabad today. Khan warned that if their issues are not resolved, the entire country would face a shutdown on July 5.