Baghdad: Hundreds of merchants and businessmen demonstrated this morning in front of the Customs Authority building in Baghdad, protesting the decision to increase customs tariffs. The city witnessed a near-total shutdown of electronics and computer shops and complexes on Al-Sina’a Street, as well as private stores in the Al-Shourja area extending to Al-Mutanabbi Street.

According to National Iraqi News Agency, the protest was triggered by the government’s recent decision to raise customs tariffs, which traders argue will negatively impact their businesses. The merchants are calling for a reversal of the decision, expressing concerns that the increased costs could lead to higher prices for consumers and reduced sales.

The demonstration and subsequent closure of shops highlight the significant unrest among Baghdad’s business community. Many merchants are worried about the potential economic ramifications and are urging the government to reconsider the tariffs to avoid further disruption.

The protest is one of the largest seen in recent times, reflecting the growing discontent among business owners. The merchants’ demands for a rollback of the tariff increase remain unaddressed, and it is unclear how long the shop closures will continue.