Business leaders in Karachi have warned that economic activity in the port city and the wider province could grind to a halt as a cargo transporters' strike enters its ninth day. Reports from Dawn indicate that the strike has significantly disrupted the flow of goods and threatens to halt local production.

Representatives from various business organizations have appealed to the Sindh government to intervene, highlighting the severe impact on industrial output and supply chains. In a letter to the Sindh chief minister, Abdul Aleem, Secretary General of the Overseas Investors Chambers of Commerce and Industry (OICCI), described the situation as critically concerning for trade and industry nationwide. Likewise, Sheikh Umer Rehan, Chairman of the Pakistan Vanaspati Manufacturers Association, noted that supplies of edible oil, ghee, and other essential consumer goods have been interrupted, and the transport of industrial raw materials has come to a standstill.

Wajid Bukhari, General Secretary of the Pakistan Association of Large Steel Producers, told Dawn that the strike has severely damaged industrial production and logistics networks. He warned that if it continues, it could result in job losses, reduced wages, and long-term damage to Pakistan’s industrial reputation.

The protests began following the enactment of the Motor Vehicle Ordinance 2025 on December 8, which introduced higher fines, stricter penalties, vehicle seizures, and the registration of FIRs against drivers and transport operators. Transport unions argue that these measures were implemented without proper consultation, making day-to-day operations financially unviable.

Major transport groups, including the All Pakistan Transport Federation and affiliated goods transport associations, have announced a nationwide wheel-jam strike for December 19, citing dissatisfaction with government commitments. Transport leaders have warned that unless the contested provisions of the ordinance are withdrawn or significantly amended, goods and passenger transport across the country could remain suspended.