Protesting increased package VAT
Traders call strike on Nov 2
STAFF REPORTER
Traders called a daylong strike on November 2 in the capital protesting the increased package VAT by the government and what they call harassment by the National Board of Revenue (NBR).
The traders under the banner Babosayee Oikkya Forum yesterday called the strike. They also plan to draw Prime Ministers attention to realize their demands over new Value Added Tax Law.
The leaders of the forum came up with the announcement at a press conference at National Press Club in the capital.
At the press conference, the leaders also said they will also lay siege the office of FBCCI and NBR if their demands are not met by November 12.
They also threatened of besieging the Prime Ministers office if needed.
During the press meet, the business leaders placed a 4-point demand to help progress of their trade.
On May 30, businessmen staged a one-hour human chain programme across the country demanding retention of Package VAT in the new VAT (value added tax) law.
The new VAT law has already drawn widespread criticism from different quarters, mostly from leading business associations, as it will impose a uniform 15 per cent VAT on all products and services, removing existing multiple rates.
