Small shopkeepers in Pakistan have reported huge sales in fire proof US flags as the cost of replacing burnt offerings increases.
Flag seller, Abdul Usmani has looked on with incredulity as the increase in linen flag prices has hit the sales of the popular Stars and Stripes, “Linen is too expensive now but mercifully spun polyester is an excellent alternative and is more fire proof than cotton based materials. Even though it is manufactured in the USA it is a more popular choice for fundamentalists.”
As higher price rises and US sanctions begin to bite, demonstrators across Pakistan are seeking value for money and turning to polyester flags as a preference. With an average cost of 1,000 rupees per flag they are keen to make them last longer as the world’s cameras roll.
One demonstrator who preferred to remain anonymous said, “The linen flags go up in smoke too quickly so our message is rapidly lost. On top of this our open toed sandals give us no protection from the flames so a much slower and controlled burn is saving on trips to accident and emergency.”
US Ambassador for Pakistan, Richard Olsen said, “I am very pleased with the uptake in the purchase of spun polyester flags as this is a major boost to the American economy in these difficult times.”