Gilgit-Baltistan merchants have decided to move forward with their seated in the dry port Sust, rejecting the government’s conditional tax concessions. The announcement occurred after negotiations in Islamabad between the federal government, the GB authorities and the local commercial representatives.
The protesters have maintained the closed port since July in opposition to the new fiscal measures and the suspension of customs authorization. On Wednesday, officials agreed to exempt certain imports from federal taxes, provided they were for local use and met specific conditions. The annual value of these exemptions was limited to RS4 billion.
However, the commercial leader Javed Hussain said Thursday that the agreement did not reach its demands. “After the agreement and his announcement in Islamabad, we were suggested that we finish the protest. But we do not agree with this. [suggestion] And they have decided to continue the sitting and maintain the suspended exchange. “
