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Climate Change Projects: Green Pakistan Programme Gets Rs2.3b in FY2026-27 Development Budget
Pakistan

Climate Change Projects: Green Pakistan Programme Gets Rs2.3b in FY2026-27 Development Budget

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The federal government has allocated Rs2.48 billion to the Climate Change and Environmental Coordination Division under the Public Sector Development Programme (PSDP) 2026-27, with the revised Green Pakistan Programme receiving the largest share of funds as authorities seek to strengthen climate resilience and promote sustainable development. According to the development programme, the Climate Change and Environmental Coordination Division will oversee four major projects during the upcoming fiscal year, focusing on environmental protection, climate adaptation, urban planning and green entrepreneurship. The total allocation for the division stands at Rs2.477 billion, including both local and foreign funding components. Green Pakistan Programme Receives Largest Allocation The government’s flagship Green Pakistan Programme (Revised) emerged as the biggest project under the ministry, receiving an allocation of Rs2.335 billion for FY2026-27. The overall cost of the programme stands at Rs122.15 billion, while expenditure up to June 2026 is estimated at around Rs34.96 billion. The project still carries a substantial throw-forward liability, reflecting the long-term nature of the initiative. The Green Pakistan Programme aims to promote afforestation, biodiversity conservation and ecosystem restoration across the country. It forms part of broader efforts to address the challenges posed by climate change and environmental degradation. Ministry to Strengthen Technical Capacity Another key project included in the PSDP is the Strengthening Technical Capacities of the Ministry of Climate Change and Environmental Coordination (STC-MoCC&EC). The project has an estimated cost of Rs916 million, while expenditure up to June 2026 is expected to reach approximately Rs58.6 million. The government has allocated Rs40.66 million for the scheme during FY2026-27. The initiative is aimed at improving institutional capacity and enhancing the ministry’s ability to formulate and implement climate-related policies and programmes. Green Entrepreneurship Project Included The PSDP also includes a project titled “Green Skills for Sustainable Development: Promoting Green Entrepreneurship and Innovation in Pakistan.” The project carries a total cost of Rs450 million, and the government has allocated Rs51.6 million for the next fiscal year. The initiative seeks to encourage environmentally friendly businesses and support innovation in green technologies. Authorities believe the project will help create new economic opportunities while promoting sustainable practices. The programme is also expected to contribute to the development of a skilled workforce capable of supporting Pakistan’s transition toward a greener economy. National Urban Strategy to Address Climate Risks In response to increasing concerns over floods, droughts and climate-related disasters, the government has included a project for the Formulation of National Urban Strategy and Guidelines to Reduce Impacts of Urban Flooding, Droughts, Climate Disasters and Spatial Planning Risks in Pakistan. The scheme has an estimated cost of Rs106.4 million. For FY2026-27, authorities have allocated Rs50 million, including support through foreign assistance. The project is designed to help develop comprehensive urban planning guidelines aimed at reducing the impact of climate-related emergencies and improving disaster preparedness. Experts have repeatedly stressed the need for better urban planning as Pakistan continues to experience increasingly frequent extreme weather events, including floods, heatwaves and drought conditions. Climate Change Remains a Key National Priority The government has identified climate resilience and environmental sustainability as important components of its broader development strategy for FY2026-27. The Planning Ministry has stated that projects contributing to environmental protection and sustainable development have been prioritised under the country’s economic roadmap. Besides investments in information technology, energy and infrastructure, the government has also placed emphasis on addressing climate-related challenges and ensuring sustainable growth. The PSDP 2026-27 has been formulated in a resource-constrained environment, prompting authorities to focus on high-impact projects while exercising strict control over the introduction of new schemes. Officials say the development programme seeks to balance economic growth with environmental protection and aims to strengthen Pakistan’s ability to cope with the growing risks posed by climate change.

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Pakistan

TRG Pakistan Legal Battle Deepens as US Court Restrains Zia Chishti from Global Litigation

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The TRG Pakistan legal battle has entered a critical new phase after a United States federal court temporarily barred the company’s founder and former chief executive, Zia Chishti, from pursuing litigation linked to claims that had already been deemed settled. The latest ruling has injected fresh drama into one of Pakistan’s most closely watched corporate disputes, a conflict that has stretched across courtrooms in Pakistan and the United States while reshaping the balance of power within TRG Pakistan. US Court Delivers Major Blow to Zia Chishti According to a notice submitted to the Pakistan Stock Exchange, the United States District Court for the Southern District of New York issued an order on June 10, 2026, restraining Zia Chishti from initiating or continuing legal proceedings anywhere in the world involving claims that had previously been released under a settlement agreement. The temporary order will remain in force until July 1, 2026. During this period, the court will decide whether broader and potentially long-term injunctive relief should be imposed. The ruling represents a significant legal setback for Chishti, who has remained at the center of an increasingly bitter corporate battle despite a sharp decline in his shareholding. Why the TRG Pakistan Legal Battle Matters The dispute goes beyond a disagreement between shareholders. It has evolved into a battle for influence over one of Pakistan’s most prominent listed technology investment companies. The New York court had already ruled on May 12, 2026, that claims involving conduct before January 10, 2022, had been permanently released under an earlier agreement. As a result, those claims could not be litigated in any jurisdiction around the world. TRG Pakistan argued that several lawsuits initiated by Chishti, including a shareholder oppression petition pending before the Sindh High Court, were based on these previously released claims. The court further observed that it had earlier prevented Chishti from raising claims filed in a US arbitration within Pakistani legal proceedings. It stated that the same legal principles justified the latest restraint order. A Corporate War Spanning Two Countries The TRG Pakistan legal battle has become a complex cross-border conflict involving courts on both sides of the globe. Only weeks ago, Pakistan’s Supreme Court dismissed appeals filed by TRG International, Greentree Holdings and associated parties. The decision effectively upheld a Sindh High Court judgment declaring Greentree’s acquisition of nearly 30 percent of TRG Pakistan shares unlawful. At that time, the verdict was widely interpreted as strengthening the position of Chishti and minority shareholders seeking greater influence over the company. However, events quickly took another dramatic turn. How Zia Chishti Lost His Grip on TRG Pakistan Despite apparent legal momentum, Chishti’s influence over TRG Pakistan weakened significantly following the enforcement of pledged shares linked to a financing arrangement. On May 21, JS Bank acquired approximately 81.36 million TRG Pakistan shares through the enforcement of collateral previously pledged by Chishti. The transaction represented nearly 14.92 percent of the company’s total shareholding. Based on the disclosed price of Rs62.92 per share, the acquisition was valued at approximately Rs5.12 billion. The impact on the company’s ownership structure was immediate and substantial. Entities associated with the JS Group increased their combined stake in TRG Pakistan to roughly 29.3 percent. Meanwhile, Chishti’s ownership declined dramatically to approximately 1.2 percent. The shift fundamentally altered the shareholder landscape and significantly reduced the founder’s direct influence over the company’s future direction. What Happens Next in the TRG Pakistan Legal Battle? TRG Pakistan has confirmed that it is reviewing its legal options following the latest US court order. The court’s decision in July could determine whether the temporary restrictions evolve into a broader injunction capable of limiting Chishti’s ability to pursue related claims globally. For investors, the outcome could shape not only the future governance of TRG Pakistan but also set important precedents regarding cross-border shareholder disputes involving Pakistani listed companies. As the courtroom battle intensifies, shareholders and market participants will be closely watching whether this latest development marks the beginning of the end of a prolonged corporate war or merely another chapter in one of Pakistan’s most dramatic boardroom conflicts.

RCCI Budget Proposals Call for Lower Interest Rates and Energy Costs
Pakistan

RCCI Budget Proposals Call for Lower Interest Rates and Energy Costs

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The Rawalpindi Chamber of Commerce and Industry (RCCI) has urged the government to bring interest rates below 10 percent and reduce electricity and gas prices in the upcoming budget to stimulate investment and industrial growth. RCCI President Usman Shaukat said Pakistan should aim to align borrowing costs with those prevailing in other countries in the region. Lower Interest Rates Needed for Investment Usman Shaukat said high interest rates discourage investment and slow industrial activity. He stressed that the benchmark interest rate should be brought below 10 percent to encourage businesses to expand and attract new investments. According to him, lower borrowing costs would help industries grow and support economic activity. Falling Oil Prices Offer Opportunity The RCCI president said declining global oil prices provide the government with an opportunity to address inflation. He said lower international oil prices could ease economic pressures and help stabilize prices in the domestic market. According to him, the government should take advantage of the changing global environment to provide relief to businesses and consumers. Chamber Seeks Lower Electricity and Gas Tariffs Usman Shaukat highlighted the high cost of energy in Pakistan. He called for reductions in electricity and gas tariffs, saying expensive utilities are increasing production costs and hurting industrial competitiveness. He added that affordable energy is essential for sustainable economic growth and export expansion. Tax Base Should Be Expanded The RCCI president urged the Federal Board of Revenue (FBR) to broaden the tax base instead of increasing pressure on existing taxpayers. He also recommended reducing corporate tax rates to make Pakistan a more attractive destination for investment. According to him, a competitive tax regime would help strengthen the economy and encourage business activity. Support Sought for Electric Vehicles Usman Shaukat endorsed the government’s policy to promote electric vehicles (EVs), saying the shift helps save fuel and reduce dependence on imported energy. However, he noted that the International Monetary Fund (IMF) is pressing for higher taxes on electric vehicles. He proposed a differentiated policy under which smaller EVs would continue to enjoy lower taxes. At the same time, he said imposing taxes on electric vehicles equivalent to 1,500cc conventional vehicles would not be problematic. He also called for the continuation of tax incentives for locally manufactured electric vehicles to support the domestic industry. Pharmaceutical Exports Offer Growth Potential The RCCI president said Pakistan has significant opportunities to increase pharmaceutical exports. He urged the government to issue the notification for the Pharma Export Council without delay. He also recommended providing tax incentives to pharmaceutical exporters to help the sector expand in international markets. According to him, supportive policies could transform pharmaceuticals into an important source of export earnings. Focus on Growth and Competitiveness RCCI said lower interest rates, reduced energy costs, tax reforms, and export incentives are essential for improving Pakistan’s economic competitiveness. The chamber emphasized that measures supporting investment and industrial activity would help strengthen economic growth and create new opportunities for businesses.

ABAD Urges Tax Reforms in Budget 2026-27 to Revive Real Estate Investment
Pakistan

ABAD Urges Tax Reforms in Budget 2026-27 to Revive Real Estate Investment

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Chairman Hassan Bakhshi Presents Key Proposals to Simplify Property Taxation Association of Builders and Developers (ABAD) Chairman Muhammad Hassan Bakhshi has presented a set of budget proposals to the government. He says long-term policy is critical for the real estate sector and must be developed through consultation with all stakeholders, including builders, developers, buyers, and allied industries. Replace Section 7F With Area-Based Taxation The government introduced a new tax under Section 7F last year. Under this regime, builders pay 10% on net income, while developers face 12.5% and 15% respectively on all receipts. ABAD wants this replaced with the previous Section 100D, which taxed builders on a per-square-foot basis. Bakhshi argues that area-based taxation gives builders a clear, advance estimate of their tax liability regardless of project size. He says this will also close loopholes for corruption. Remove Section 236C Tax on Business Income ABAD is challenging the application of Section 236C, which is a Capital Gains Tax, on builders and developers. The council argues that property sales by builders constitute business income, not capital gains. Therefore, Section 236C should not apply to them. Similarly, sub-leasing of property should also be exempt from this tax. Reduce Section 236K Advance Tax to 0.25% Section 236K is an advance tax of 1.5% paid at the time of property purchase. Its purpose is to inform the government that a transaction has taken place. ABAD proposes reducing this rate to 0.25%. Bakhshi points out that no value appreciation occurs at the time of purchase. A lower rate will still keep the government informed about property transactions without burdening buyers. Restore Capital Gains Tax Exemption After Five Years Previously, Capital Gains Tax (CGT) expired after five to ten years of property ownership. This encouraged people to hold onto properties. The government has since removed this exemption entirely. Now, even a property sold after 50 years attracts CGT. ABAD wants the old law restored so that CGT is waived after five years of ownership. Cap Rental Income Tax at 15% ABAD wants more people to buy and rent out properties. However, excessive taxes on rental income are discouraging this. Bakhshi notes that landlords currently create two separate agreements, one showing the actual rent and another showing a lower figure to reduce tax liability. He proposes that the government fix rental income tax at a flat 15%. This will bring more landlords into compliance and increase government tax revenue. Broaden Tax Net Instead of Raising Tax Rates ABAD warns that the overall tax burden on businesses is already too high. Tax rates have reached nearly 50%, and any further increase in the next budget will force businesses to shut down and drive away investment. Bakhshi says the business community, chambers of commerce, trade associations, and even the IMF are all demanding the same thing: tax those who are not paying taxes rather than increasing the burden on existing taxpayers. He urges the government to reduce the load on compliant taxpayers and expand the tax net in Budget 2026-27.

KCCI Budget Proposals Focus on Tax Reforms and Industrial Relief
Pakistan

KCCI Budget Proposals Focus on Tax Reforms and Industrial Relief

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The Karachi Chamber of Commerce and Industry (KCCI) has urged the government to expand the tax net instead of imposing additional burdens on existing taxpayers, saying industries, traders, and exporters are facing growing economic challenges. KCCI President Rehan Hanif outlined several recommendations aimed at improving the business environment and supporting industrial growth ahead of the federal budget. Chamber Calls for Broader Tax Base The chamber stressed that sectors already paying taxes should not face additional levies. Instead, it recommended bringing under-taxed sectors into the documented economy. According to KCCI, sectors such as retail, wholesale, agriculture, and real estate contribute less in taxes compared to the scale of their economic activities. The chamber urged the government to take effective measures to increase documentation and broaden the tax base. Opposition to Higher Energy Prices KCCI opposed any increase in gas and electricity tariffs. The chamber warned that rising energy costs are undermining the competitiveness of local industries. It said manufacturers are already struggling with increasing production expenses and higher utility bills. According to the chamber, further increases would make it difficult for businesses to compete in international markets. High Interest Rates Hurting Industry The chamber also criticized the State Bank’s interest rate policy. KCCI said expensive financing and elevated energy costs have placed severe pressure on the productive sector. Business leaders argued that high borrowing costs discourage investment and limit industrial expansion. They called for policies that would support economic activity and reduce the cost of doing business. Relief Sought on Super Tax Payments KCCI highlighted the liquidity problems faced by industries and sought relief regarding outstanding super tax liabilities. The chamber proposed allowing installment payments or adjusting dues against pending refunds. According to KCCI, these measures would help financially stressed industrial units and prevent factory closures. Business leaders said such support is necessary to maintain production and protect jobs. Port Delays Creating Trade Problems The chamber identified delays in cargo clearance and the growing backlog of containers at Karachi’s ports as major concerns for traders and manufacturers. It said these delays are disrupting supply chains and increasing business costs. KCCI proposed relief in port charges and demurrage fees to facilitate the timely movement of raw materials and imported goods. The chamber stressed that reducing logistical bottlenecks would improve trade efficiency and support industrial activity. Support for Digital Reforms KCCI also endorsed the “One City, One Chamber” policy. In addition, it called for the complete digitalization of trade marks, intellectual property rights, and customs procedures. According to the chamber, digital reforms would reduce compliance costs and simplify regulatory requirements, particularly for small and medium-sized enterprises. Business leaders said modernizing these systems would improve ease of doing business and increase efficiency. Industry Seeks Supportive Policies The chamber emphasized that Pakistan’s industrial and commercial sectors require supportive policies to remain competitive. It urged the government to focus on expanding the tax base, lowering business costs, and improving trade infrastructure. KCCI said such measures would encourage investment, strengthen exports, and contribute to sustainable economic growth.

SMEDA Calls for Incentives and Regulatory Relief for SMEs
Pakistan

SMEDA Calls for Incentives and Regulatory Relief for SMEs

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The Small and Medium Enterprise Development Authority (SMEDA) has called for special incentives and regulatory reforms for small and medium enterprises (SMEs), saying the sector holds the key to Pakistan’s economic growth, exports, and job creation. SMEDA Director Mashhood Ali Khan said SMEs are unable to realize their full potential because of frequent audits, complex regulations, and high production costs. SMEs Face Regulatory Challenges According to Mashhood Ali Khan, businesses with annual turnover of up to Rs500 million already pay income tax and sales tax. He said such enterprises should be exempt from repeated audits conducted by different government departments. He noted that small businesses operate with limited staff. Owners often have to manage production, procurement, sales, and administration simultaneously. Frequent audits divert their attention from expanding their businesses. He urged the government to create a trust-based environment and provide incentives to registered businesses. According to him, these measures would encourage undocumented enterprises to become part of the formal economy. Focus Should Be on Untaxed Sectors Mashhood Ali Khan stressed that the government should broaden the tax base instead of increasing the burden on existing taxpayers. He said several sectors are still not contributing effectively to tax revenues. Bringing such sectors into the tax net would generate additional resources without discouraging compliant businesses. Lower Electricity Tariffs Essential The SMEDA director described lower electricity prices as essential for industrial growth. He said high energy costs are making it difficult for Pakistani industries to remain competitive in international markets. According to him, the government must review electricity tariffs if it wants to promote exports and industrial development. He added that affordable energy would help businesses reduce production costs and improve competitiveness. Proposal for Collateral-Free Loans Mashhood Ali Khan also proposed introducing collateral-free financing schemes for SMEs. He said businesses that have consistently paid taxes over several years should receive easy loans based on their tax records. Such financing, he said, would allow companies to increase production capacity and expand operations. He added that business growth would ultimately lead to higher government revenues. Long-Term Financing Needed The SMEDA official emphasized the need to restore long-term financing facilities at single-digit interest rates. He said industries require financing for at least 10 years to invest in modern machinery, technology, and production capacity. According to him, loans with two- or three-year tenures do not support sustainable industrial growth. He said access to affordable and long-term financing is crucial for strengthening Pakistan’s manufacturing sector. SMEs Generate Jobs and Exports Mashhood Ali Khan highlighted the importance of the SME sector in the national economy. He said SMEs currently contribute around $2.8 billion in exports. He added that nearly 80 percent of employment opportunities in Pakistan are linked to the sector. According to him, SMEs have the potential to play a major role in economic recovery and sustainable growth. Sector Can Drive Economic Revival The SMEDA director said the government should provide regulatory ease, affordable energy, and better financial facilities to unlock the sector’s potential. He said supportive policies would help small and medium enterprises expand, increase exports, and create more jobs. According to him, a stronger SME sector could become one of the main drivers of Pakistan’s long-term economic development.

OICCI Proposes Corporate Tax Cuts and GST Reduction in Budget 2026-27
Pakistan

OICCI Proposes Corporate Tax Cuts and GST Reduction in Budget 2026-27

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The Overseas Investors Chamber of Commerce and Industry (OICCI), which represents international investor companies operating in Pakistan, has proposed a series of reforms for the federal budget 2026-27 aimed at attracting foreign investment and improving the business environment. The chamber also called for measures to address challenges faced by local industries and the commercial sector. OICCI Seeks Lower Corporate Taxes In its budget recommendations, OICCI placed corporate tax reforms at the center of its proposals. The chamber urged the government to reduce the corporate tax rate to 28 percent in the fiscal year 2026-27. It also recommended a gradual reduction to 25 percent over the next three years to make Pakistan more competitive for foreign investors. According to OICCI, lower tax rates would encourage investment and support economic growth. Chamber Calls for Gradual End to Super Tax OICCI also advocated the phased abolition of the super tax. The chamber noted that when corporate tax, super tax, Workers Welfare Fund (WWF), and Workers Profit Participation Fund (WPPF) are combined, the effective tax burden on large companies reaches nearly 46 percent. It argued that this level is significantly higher than those prevailing in many countries in the region and undermines competitiveness. High Taxes on Banks Raising Cost of Capital The chamber expressed concerns over the heavy taxation imposed on banks. According to OICCI, higher taxes increase the cost of capital and affect the entire business and industrial sector. It said the existing taxation system limits banks’ ability to provide financing, making working capital more expensive for businesses and reducing economic activity. Reforms Proposed for Salaried Individuals OICCI also recommended changes to personal income taxes to address the growing trend of highly skilled professionals leaving the country. The chamber proposed abolishing the 10 percent surcharge and super tax imposed on high-income salaried individuals. It further recommended setting the maximum income tax rate at 25 percent. The chamber believes such measures would help retain qualified professionals and strengthen Pakistan’s human capital. GST Reduction Recommended On indirect taxes, OICCI suggested simplifying withholding taxes and reducing the General Sales Tax (GST) on goods. The chamber proposed lowering the GST rate from 18 percent to 17 percent initially and eventually bringing it down to 15 percent. According to OICCI, these measures would ease the tax burden on businesses and consumers and improve economic competitiveness. Delayed Refunds and Tax Notices Remain Major Concerns The chamber highlighted several issues that continue to hamper business activity. It pointed to delays in tax refunds, unnecessary notices issued to large taxpayers, and weak coordination between federal and provincial revenue authorities. OICCI said these challenges create uncertainty for investors and hinder ease of doing business in the country. Focus on Investment and Business Growth The recommendations form part of OICCI’s broader efforts to promote foreign direct investment and create a more business-friendly environment. The chamber emphasized that reforms in taxation and regulatory processes are essential for increasing investment, supporting industries, and enhancing Pakistan’s economic competitiveness ahead of the upcoming fiscal year.

Pakistan Attracts Global Investors as Safest Nuclear Power, Says AKD
Business

Pakistan Attracts Global Investors as Safest Nuclear Power, Says AKD

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Renowned economist and Chairman of AKD Group Aqeel Karim Dhedhi has stated that recent geopolitical developments, particularly the Iran-Israel conflict, have contributed to a significant shift in global perception, with the international community increasingly recognizing Pakistan as the safest nuclear power in the world. Speaking during an informal interaction ahead of the unveiling of the new residential development The Arcadians in Defence Phase VIII, he said that the evolving situation in the Middle East and other Muslim countries has highlighted the importance of investing in stable nuclear states, adding that Pakistan is now being viewed as a secure and attractive destination for long-term global investment. Dhedhi further noted that Pakistan’s international standing has improved considerably over recent months, asserting that regional economic progress remains closely linked to improved diplomatic relations, including between Pakistan and India, which he believes are essential for sustainable regional development. Rising Foreign Investment Interest in Karachi and Gwadar He revealed that substantial investment inflows are expected in Karachi and Gwadar in the near future, as capital that previously moved out of Pakistan is gradually returning to the country. According to him, investors from the Middle East and Gulf region are increasingly showing strong interest in Pakistan’s economic opportunities, particularly in infrastructure, real estate, and port-related development. He emphasized that Pakistan’s port cities remain central to its economic future and stressed that industrialization in these regions is a critical factor for unlocking long-term growth. He also referred to insights from Chinese experts who believe that the lack of industrial development in port cities continues to remain one of the major structural barriers to Pakistan’s economic expansion. Concerns Over Structural Economic Challenges Discussing broader economic issues, Dhedhi stated that Pakistan’s economy is currently going through a critical phase and requires policy consistency driven by national interest. He identified currency devaluation, the widening trade deficit, and long-term power purchase agreements with Independent Power Producers (IPPs) as key structural challenges that continue to impact economic stability. He further pointed out that capacity charge payments remain a major burden on the economy and questioned the efficiency of the power sector by highlighting the paradox of persistent load shedding despite surplus electricity generation capacity. Explaining the situation, he said that Pakistan has an installed electricity generation capacity of around 50,000 megawatts, while peak summer demand reaches approximately 25,000 megawatts, leaving a substantial surplus. However, he noted that reliance on imported oil and coal for power generation increases production costs, resulting in higher tariffs and inefficiencies in distribution. He expressed confidence that if electricity demand increases to between 35,000 and 40,000 megawatts, tariff pressures could ease significantly, leading to a more balanced and efficient energy market. Outlook on Exports, SMEs, and Fiscal Reform Dhedhi expressed optimism about Pakistan’s economic trajectory, stating that exports are expected to grow rapidly in the coming years. He emphasized the importance of expanding venture capital funding and improving access to financing for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), which he described as essential for job creation and broader economic activity. He also advocated for reducing the administrative powers of the Federal Board of Revenue (FBR), arguing that a more streamlined structure could enhance tax compliance and reduce corruption. Referring to past fiscal performance, he stated that during 2007 and 2008, revenue targets were successfully achieved when the FBR operated with comparatively fewer powers, and suggested that a similar approach could be tested to improve outcomes. The Arcadians Project to Redefine Luxury Living in Karachi Speaking about the real estate sector, Dhedhi announced that The Arcadians is a 43-acre master-planned residential development that aims to introduce a modern integrated lifestyle concept in Karachi. He described the project as a “Defence within Defence,” combining residential, commercial, and business facilities within a single community framework. He explained that the development will ultimately consist of 33 towers featuring apartments, offices, and commercial spaces, while the initial launch phase will include three blocks. He added that the project has already received strong market interest, particularly from overseas Pakistanis, even before its official launch. Dhedhi further revealed that international roadshows are planned during Rabi-ul-Awwal to promote the project globally, with additional phases expected to be completed in the coming stages of development. He concluded that The Arcadians represents one of the largest and most significant real estate developments currently underway in Pakistan, reflecting growing investor confidence in the country’s property sector.

PSX Moves Closer to Launching Single Stock Options Market After Industry Consensus
Pakistan

PSX Moves Closer to Launching Single Stock Options Market After Industry Consensus

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The Pakistan Stock Exchange (PSX) has moved a step closer to launching a Single Stock Options Market after securing broad industry consensus on key product features and contract specifications. The exchange held its sixth consultative session with broker members and the Pakistan Stock Brokers Association (PSBA) to discuss the proposed market framework. Participants reviewed the product structure and agreed on features considered most suitable for Pakistan’s capital market and its current stage of development. Industry Leaders Participate in Discussions PSX Chief Executive Officer Farrukh Sabzwari chaired the session. He was joined by Chief Operating Officer Jawad Hashmi and Chief Regulatory Officer Ajeet Kumar. Senior market professionals also attended the meeting. Participants included Farid Alam, Chairman of the Pakistan Stock Brokers Association Mohammad Munir Khanani, PSBA CEO Bilal Zardi, and representatives from several brokerage firms. Their input helped shape the evolving framework for the proposed Single Stock Options Market. Focus Shifts to Risk Management Framework With major progress achieved on product design, the initiative has now entered the next phase. PSX will work with the National Clearing Company of Pakistan Limited to finalize the risk management framework. The exchange will also focus on system design and implementation planning before introducing the new market segment. During the session, PSX Head of Strategy, Products and Data Science Aamir Mushtaq Kanju presented the proposed options framework and highlighted the features considered most appropriate for local investors and market participants. New Product Expected to Strengthen Market The proposed Single Stock Options Market aims to expand investment opportunities in Pakistan’s capital market. According to PSX, the product will help investors manage risk more effectively, improve market liquidity, and provide additional tools for investment and hedging strategies. Market experts believe the introduction of stock options could support the development of Pakistan’s financial markets by offering investors greater flexibility and more sophisticated trading instruments. As consultations continue, PSX and industry stakeholders are expected to finalize the remaining operational and regulatory details before the market’s eventual launch.

NADRA Resolves Over 91% of Citizen Complaints in 15 Days
Pakistan

NADRA Resolves Over 91% of Citizen Complaints in 15 Days

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NADRA’s complaint management system is working at speed. The authority resolves citizen complaints in an average of 72 hours. The system handles thousands of cases every month across Pakistan. Strong Performance in May NADRA recorded strong numbers between May 16 and May 31, 2025. Citizens submitted 36,962 complaints during this 15-day window. Staff processed and closed 33,779 of those cases within the same period. That means NADRA cleared 91.39% of all complaints in just two weeks. The remaining 3,183 complaints are still under active review. How the System Works NADRA runs a structured complaint intake process. Citizens submit their issues through official channels. The system logs each complaint and assigns it to the relevant department. Teams then investigate and respond within the 72-hour target. The authority tracks every case until it reaches final resolution. Why This Matters for Citizens Millions of Pakistanis depend on NADRA for identity documents, CNICs, and birth certificates. Delays in resolving complaints can block access to essential services. A 91% resolution rate in 15 days shows the system is performing well. Fast turnaround reduces frustration and builds public trust in the authority. Room for Improvement Over 3,000 complaints are still pending. NADRA must clear these cases quickly to maintain its performance record. The authority should also publish monthly data to keep citizens informed. Transparency will strengthen confidence in the complaint system. What Citizens Can Do Citizens can file complaints directly through NADRA’s official website or helpline. They should keep their complaint reference number for follow-up. If a case exceeds 72 hours, citizens can escalate through NADRA’s feedback portal. The authority encourages all unresolved issues to be reported promptly.

The Boardroom PK delivers trusted business news, analysis, and insights from Pakistan and beyond, keeping readers informed, inspired, and ahead in the evolving world of business and leadership.

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