Baghdad merchants' strike paralyzes trade in protest against increased customs tariffs
On Sunday morning, Iraqis woke up to an unusual sight in the streets of the capital, Baghdad, as markets and shops appeared completely closed, in a general strike carried out by merchants in protest against a government decision to raise customs tariffs.
Major commercial areas such as Al-Shourja, Al-Rashid Street, Al-Karrada, Al-Rabeei, Al-Sina’a, and Jamila witnessed an almost complete closure of shops, while a number of merchants went out in demonstrations in the middle of Al-Shourja, demanding a reversal of the decision, which they described as “suffocating,” due to the sharp rise in commodity prices and the decline in citizens’ purchasing power that it caused.
Traders confirmed that the decision led to a major recession in the markets and increasing financial losses, which prompted them to escalate the strike, indicating their intention to continue the closure until the government responds to their demands to open a serious dialogue and review the customs tariff in a manner that is appropriate to the difficult economic conditions.
This strike comes days after warnings issued by traders about the consequences of implementing the decision, which prompted citizens yesterday, Saturday, to rush to the markets to buy food and consumer goods, fearing price increases or shortages in supply.
While some economic voices blame this decision for the accumulation of goods at ports and the disruption of trade, official sources maintain that the customs increase has generated significant revenue, a move aimed at bolstering the public treasury. However, as the crisis worsens, calls have grown louder to expand the strike to other governorates if immediate action is not taken. link
