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Fauji Fertilizer Company (FFC) Urea Volumes Drop On RLNG Constraints While Sector Profits Rise
Pakistan

Fauji Fertilizer Company (FFC) Urea Volumes Drop On RLNG Constraints While Sector Profits Rise

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Fauji Fertilizer Company (FFC) is expected to record a decline in urea offtakes in the third quarter of calendar year 2026 as restricted supplies of re-gasified liquefied natural gas (RLNG) and subdued inventory levels constrain granular urea production. Despite the pressure on FFC’s volumes, Pakistan’s fertilizer sector is projected to deliver higher overall earnings, supported by stronger fertilizer prices and improved nitrogenous fertilizer sales. FFC’s urea offtakes are forecast to decline approximately 9% year-on-year during the quarter. However, improved pricing in the domestic market is expected to provide some relief to margins and partially offset pressures in other product segments. RLNG Constraints Limit FFC Urea Production Limited RLNG availability and subdued inventory levels have restricted granular urea production at FFC, weighing on the company’s expected sales volumes. The anticipated decline highlights the fertilizer industry’s continued exposure to gas availability and supply disruptions. Although higher local urea prices are expected to support product margins, sustained production will depend on the consistency of gas supplies. FFC’s gross margin is projected at approximately 30% for the quarter, reflecting the combined impact of stronger urea pricing and weaker profitability in the phosphate segment. DAP Margins Face Pressure From Rising Phosphoric Acid Prices FFC’s diammonium phosphate (DAP) segment is expected to face continued margin pressure as phosphoric acid prices rise faster than international DAP prices. The company’s DAP margins are estimated at approximately $127 per ton, reflecting the unfavourable movement in input and output prices. Imported DAP volumes are projected at around 12,000 tons, compared with no sales in the corresponding period last year. Meanwhile, locally manufactured DAP volumes are expected to decline approximately 8% year-on-year amid higher prices. The divergence between urea and phosphate performance illustrates the challenges facing fertilizer producers as input costs and selling prices move at different rates. Fertilizer Sector Profits Expected to Rise 5% Pakistan’s fertilizer sector is projected to post combined net profit of PKR 39 billion in the third quarter of 2026, representing a 5% increase year-on-year. Higher fertilizer prices and an estimated 2.6% increase in nitrogenous fertilizer offtakes are expected to drive earnings growth. In contrast, phosphatic fertilizer offtakes are forecast to decline around 25%, with phosphoric acid prices hovering near $1,700 per ton. Sector-wide gross margins are projected at 34.7%, up 2.3 percentage points from the corresponding period last year. Urea and calcium ammonium nitrate (CAN) prices increased approximately 6% and 7%, respectively, while gas costs remained largely stable. DAP and nitrophosphate (NP) prices rose around 22% and 18%, respectively, lagging behind the increase in phosphoric acid prices. As a result, stronger nitrogenous fertilizer margins are expected to outweigh the compression in phosphate profitability. Higher Financing and Distribution Costs Weigh on Earnings Despite the projected increase in sector profits, higher operating and financing expenses are expected to limit the improvement in net margins. Finance costs are forecast to rise 46%, primarily due to borrowings associated with the PEF and capital expenditure requirements. Distribution expenses are expected to increase 23%, partly reflecting higher diesel prices. Other income is projected to fall approximately 43%, driven by anticipated portfolio losses at one sector participant. Consequently, the sector’s net margin is forecast at 14.3%, down 0.8 percentage points, despite the expected improvement in gross profitability. EFERT and FATIMA Show Diverging Earnings Trends Company-level performance is expected to vary, reflecting differences in product mix, sales volumes and operating margins. EFERT Earnings Supported by Urea Volumes Engro Fertilizers (EFERT) is expected to report earnings per share (EPS) of PKR 6.71 and a dividend of PKR 5.40 per share. Urea offtakes are projected to increase 9.1%, supporting gross margins of approximately 39%. Improved volumes and profitability are also expected to contribute to a substantial sequential recovery in earnings. FATIMA Benefits From Urea and CAN Pricing Fatima Fertilizer Company (FATIMA) is projected to report EPS of PKR 4.35, with no dividend expected for the quarter. Sarsabz urea volumes recorded a significant increase, while premium-brand volumes and NP offtakes declined. Gross margins are forecast near 40%, supported by higher urea and CAN prices and an improved sales mix. The contrasting performance of individual companies underscores the importance of product diversification, pricing power and sales composition in determining profitability across the fertilizer industry. Urea Inventories Remain Adequate Despite Supply Concerns Despite earlier plant shutdowns and an outage in August, Pakistan’s urea inventories are considered adequate to meet near-term demand. Fourth-quarter offtakes are forecast at approximately 2.0 million tons, compared with expected supply of around 2.5 million tons. This would leave a projected surplus of roughly 0.5 million tons. The estimated supply-demand balance suggests that immediate shortages are unlikely under the current outlook. However, maintaining adequate availability will depend on consistent RLNG imports and stable production across the industry. Fertilizer Sector Outlook Depends on Gas Supply and Pricing Pakistan’s fertilizer industry is entering the final quarter of 2026 with a mixed outlook. Higher nitrogenous fertilizer prices and offtakes are expected to support sector earnings, while rising phosphoric acid costs continue to pressure phosphate margins. For FFC, the key near-term challenge remains balancing the impact of restricted RLNG availability on urea production against improved domestic pricing. Across the wider sector, financing costs, distribution expenses and the availability of imported inputs will remain important factors shaping profitability.

KPK Emergency Clouds Sentiment Subdued, PSX Down Almost 2,000 Points
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KPK Emergency Clouds Sentiment Subdued, PSX Down Almost 2,000 Points

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Pakistan’s stock market closed sharply lower on Monday as political uncertainty surrounding the federal government’s emergency measures in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (K-P) weighed on investor sentiment. The benchmark KSE-100 Index fell 1,965 points, or 1.18% day-on-day, to settle at 165,124, reflecting a bearish and volatile trading session at the Pakistan Stock Exchange (PSX). According to Ali Najib, Deputy Head of Trading at Arif Habib Limited, the market opened in negative territory following the federal government’s declaration of an “Emergency and Governor’s Rule” in K-P over the weekend. Political Uncertainty Weighs on PSX Performance Domestic political developments remained a key concern for investors, contributing to cautious trading and downward pressure on the benchmark index. Although the market experienced some recovery during the session, value buying at lower levels failed to sustain the rebound. The KSE-100 Index subsequently retreated and closed firmly in negative territory. The session highlighted the sensitivity of investor sentiment to political uncertainty, with market participants remaining cautious amid concerns over the evolving situation. Major Stocks Contribute to Index Decline Selling pressure across several heavyweight stocks played a significant role in the market’s decline. UBL, OGDC, HBL, MEBL, LUCK, POL, ENGROH, FFC, BAHL and SYS collectively pulled the KSE-100 Index down by 1,034 points. The combined impact of these stocks accounted for a substantial portion of the benchmark’s overall decline, underscoring the influence of major listed companies on the market’s daily performance. Trading Activity Improves Slightly Despite the bearish close, market activity improved marginally during the session. A total of 358.5 million shares were traded, while overall turnover reached PKR 14.4 billion. TREET emerged as the volume leader, with 27.3 million shares changing hands. The trading figures indicated continued market participation despite the prevailing uncertainty and pressure on share prices. PSX Outlook: Volatility Likely to Persist The near-term market outlook remains uncertain, with political developments and cautious investor sentiment likely to influence trading activity. Further downside pressure cannot be ruled out if uncertainty persists. However, value buying at lower levels could provide intermittent support to the benchmark index. Investors have been advised to remain selective, prioritise fundamentally strong stocks and avoid aggressive positions until market sentiment stabilises. The market’s direction will likely depend on developments in the domestic political environment, investor confidence and the ability of buying interest to offset continued selling pressure.

Lucky Cement Profit Falls 20 Percent On Higher Coal Costs
Business

Lucky Cement Profit Falls 20 Percent On Higher Coal Costs

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Lucky Cement is expected to report a 20 percent year-on-year decline in unconsolidated profit for the first quarter of fiscal year 2026-27, as rising coal prices put pressure on margins despite continued growth in sales. The company’s net sales are projected to increase 16 percent year-on-year to approximately PKR 39.2 billion, supported by an improvement in domestic dispatches. However, weak export volumes and higher production costs are expected to limit the benefit of revenue growth. Higher Coal Prices Weigh on Cement Margins Lucky Cement’s cost of sales is estimated to have increased 20 percent year-on-year during the quarter, primarily due to higher imported coal prices. The faster increase in costs compared with sales is expected to constrain profitability. Gross profit is projected to grow by only 9 percent, indicating continued pressure on the company’s margins. The trend highlights the challenges facing cement manufacturers as higher input costs limit their ability to convert rising revenues into stronger earnings. Unconsolidated Profit Expected to Fall to PKR 11.65 Billion Lucky Cement’s unconsolidated profit after tax is estimated at PKR 11.65 billion for 1QFY27, down 20 percent from the corresponding period last year. Earnings per share (EPS) are projected at PKR 8.0, compared with PKR 10.0 in the same quarter of the previous fiscal year. Lower finance costs and a modest increase in other income are expected to provide some support. However, these improvements are unlikely to fully offset higher operating costs and the anticipated impact of taxation or other expenses. The projected earnings decline suggests that cost management will remain critical to protecting profitability amid volatile commodity prices. Quarter-on-Quarter Earnings Show Improvement Despite the expected annual decline, Lucky Cement’s unconsolidated profit is projected to increase approximately 18 percent quarter-on-quarter. Higher sales and dividend income from Lucky Electric Power are expected to contribute to the sequential improvement. This indicates that earnings performance may differ depending on the comparison period and contributions from associated businesses. At the consolidated level, the outlook is comparatively stronger. Consolidated EPS is projected at PKR 16.0, slightly higher than the PKR 15.0 recorded a year earlier. Contributions from subsidiaries are expected to support consolidated earnings, highlighting the importance of Lucky Cement’s broader business portfolio in its overall financial performance. Cement Demand Recovers Amid Export Challenges Pakistan’s cement sector has shown signs of a demand revival, supported by budgetary measures and housing-related initiatives. Improving domestic dispatches have provided some support to manufacturers, including Lucky Cement. However, the industry continues to face pressure from elevated coal prices, which increase production costs and restrict margin expansion. Export performance remains another challenge. North-based cement exports stayed at zero amid the border situation with Afghanistan, limiting opportunities for manufacturers to benefit from external demand. The combination of improving domestic demand and persistent cost pressures leaves the sector facing a mixed operating environment as the new fiscal year progresses. Coal Prices and Domestic Demand to Shape Outlook Lucky Cement remains a company of interest for some sector analysts because of its operational scale and earnings contributions from subsidiaries. Nevertheless, its near-term profitability remains sensitive to movements in coal prices, domestic cement demand and export conditions. A sustained improvement in domestic dispatches could support revenue growth, but stronger earnings will also depend on whether input costs moderate sufficiently to improve margins. For investors, the upcoming quarterly results will provide a clearer indication of how effectively the company is managing cost pressures while benefiting from domestic demand and subsidiary income.

Dar Defends K-P Emergency as Duty to Protect Citizens
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Dar Defends K-P Emergency as Duty to Protect Citizens

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Deputy Prime Minister Ishaq Dar has defended the federal government’s decision to impose governor’s rule in Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa (K-P), arguing that protecting citizens from terrorism is a fundamental responsibility of the state. Speaking at a conference on Pakistan’s counter-terrorism landscape, Dar said the federal government could not remain inactive when people’s lives and security were at risk. He maintained that the intervention was driven by security concerns rather than political considerations. Dar Says Citizen Safety Justifies Federal Action Dar emphasised that the federal government has a responsibility to protect citizens across all parts of Pakistan, regardless of political differences or provincial boundaries. “When it comes to the safety and security of our nationals, our citizens, wherever they live, any part of Pakistan, I think it is the duty of the federal government,” he said. Rejecting allegations that the decision was politically motivated, Dar described it as a response to the terrorism that has affected K-P for approximately 15 years. “It’s not a political move. It is surely against the menace of terrorism which the province has been hit with,” he said, adding that the government could not ignore security threats on political grounds. Governor’s Rule in K-P Sparks Constitutional Debate The measures were approved by President Asif Ali Zardari under Article 234 of the Constitution after the federal government concluded that intervention was necessary. The decision followed growing tensions between the centre and the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI)-led provincial administration over security performance and counter-terrorism efforts. The provincial side rejected the move as unconstitutional, highlighting the political and constitutional disagreement surrounding federal intervention in the province. The development has placed renewed attention on the balance between provincial authority, constitutional provisions and the federal government’s stated responsibility to address security threats. Dar Highlights Pakistan’s Economic and Human Cost of Terrorism Dar said Pakistan had suffered substantial economic and human losses during its prolonged fight against militancy. According to his remarks, the country’s economic losses from terrorism exceed $150 billion, compared with external debt of approximately $130 billion. He recalled attacks on civilians, including the killing of children at the Army Public School in Peshawar, bombings targeting mosques, markets and bus stops, and attacks on labourers because of their regional backgrounds. “These are not just statistics. This is the price the Pakistani nation has paid and continues paying,” he said. The deputy prime minister expressed hope that the government’s latest measures would contribute to restoring peace, protecting lives and reducing radicalisation in the coming weeks and months. Government Prioritises Security Despite Political Differences Dar said the government had previously taken difficult decisions when national interests were at stake and was prepared to accept political consequences when public safety required action. He referred to past economic decisions taken when Pakistan faced the risk of default, arguing that governments sometimes have to act despite the political costs involved. Dar also recalled earlier engagement with the same political party during a prolonged sit-in in Islamabad. He said political differences should not prevent dialogue, while maintaining that citizen security must remain a priority when the state considers intervention necessary. His remarks underscored the government’s position that security concerns should be addressed alongside efforts to maintain political engagement. Azm-e-Istehkam and National Action Plan Remain Priorities Dar said Pakistan’s broader counter-terrorism efforts continue to include the Azm-e-Istehkam initiative and renewed attention to the National Action Plan (NAP). These initiatives remain part of the national approach to addressing militancy and improving security coordination. The government has presented its actions in K-P as part of its wider responsibility to counter terrorism and protect citizens. The effectiveness of the latest measures, however, will depend on their implementation, coordination among relevant authorities and their impact on security conditions in the province.

Pakistan, Netherlands Explore Trade, Investment Opportunities as Dutch Business Delegation Meets Commerce Secretary
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Pakistan, Netherlands Explore Trade, Investment Opportunities as Dutch Business Delegation Meets Commerce Secretary

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Pakistan and the Netherlands have explored opportunities to expand bilateral trade, investment and business partnerships across key sectors, including textiles, information technology, agriculture, food processing, engineering and skilled workforce development. The discussions took place at a business dinner hosted by Federal Secretary for Commerce Jawad Paul in honour of a visiting Dutch business delegation in Islamabad on October 12, 2026. The engagement aimed to strengthen private-sector connections and identify commercially viable opportunities for cooperation between businesses in both countries. Dutch Business Delegation Engages Pakistan’s Commerce Officials The delegation was led by Ms. Merlin Melles and comprised Dutch entrepreneurs, investors and business executives representing various sectors of the Netherlands’ economy. The event was attended by Ambassador of the Kingdom of the Netherlands to Pakistan Robert-Jan Siegert, Special Secretary Commerce Syed Hamid Ali, senior officials of the Ministry of Commerce and representatives of the Pakistan Software Export Board (PSEB). Welcoming the delegation, Secretary Commerce Jawad Paul emphasised the importance of direct business-to-business engagement in strengthening economic ties. He highlighted opportunities for Dutch companies to establish commercial partnerships in Pakistan and invest in export-oriented industries. Discussions covered Pakistan’s manufacturing capabilities, expanding technology sector, skilled workforce and potential for collaboration across industries where both countries could benefit from complementary expertise and resources. Pakistan Highlights Export Potential and EU GSP Plus Benefits A detailed presentation by the Ministry of Commerce outlined Pakistan’s trade relationship with the European Union, including the benefits of the Generalised Scheme of Preferences Plus (GSP+) arrangement. The presentation highlighted opportunities to diversify Pakistan’s exports beyond traditional products by expanding value addition and developing stronger export-oriented manufacturing capabilities. Pakistan’s established textile industry, agricultural production capacity and sports goods manufacturing sector were presented as areas with significant potential for further cooperation. Food processing, industrial production and value-added exports were also identified as potential avenues for Dutch investment. The discussions underscored the opportunity to connect Pakistan’s production capabilities with Dutch technology, expertise and access to international business networks. Netherlands Identifies Scope to Expand Bilateral Trade Addressing the gathering, Dutch Ambassador Robert-Jan Siegert described the Netherlands as Pakistan’s second-largest export market within the European Union, with bilateral trade reaching approximately US$1.9 billion. He noted that trade between the two countries was largely driven by Pakistani exports to the Netherlands, while stressing the importance of increasing Dutch exports, investment and commercial activity in Pakistan. The Ambassador also welcomed growing interest among Dutch businesses in Pakistan, highlighting emerging joint ventures, research partnerships and innovative agricultural projects involving companies and institutions from both countries. He appreciated the privately organised Dutch business mission, describing such initiatives as an encouraging sign of stronger private-sector interest in bilateral economic cooperation. Dutch Companies Explore Partnerships with Pakistani Businesses Delegation leader Merlin Melles and other Dutch entrepreneurs shared their experiences of visiting leading Pakistani companies and manufacturing facilities, including Systems Limited and major textile and industrial enterprises in Karachi. The visiting business representatives acknowledged Pakistan’s industrial capabilities, professional expertise and hospitality, while expressing interest in exploring partnerships with local companies. The discussions highlighted potential collaboration in software development, remote professional services, engineering, specialised staffing and skilled human resources. Participants also discussed opportunities for Pakistani professionals to provide services to European companies through technology-enabled business arrangements, potentially strengthening Pakistan’s role in international digital and professional services markets. Agriculture, Food Processing and Sustainable Technologies in Focus Agriculture and value-added manufacturing emerged as additional areas for potential cooperation. Participants highlighted opportunities in agricultural processing, dairy, sustainable technologies and food production. Dutch technological expertise could complement Pakistan’s agricultural resources and production capacity, creating opportunities to improve processing capabilities, introduce innovative practices and develop higher-value products. Engineering and specialised industrial services were also discussed as areas where partnerships could support knowledge sharing, business expansion and investment. Representatives of the Pakistan Software Export Board engaged with Dutch entrepreneurs interested in software development, digital services and technology-based collaboration, further broadening the scope of potential commercial partnerships. Both Countries Seek Stronger Private-Sector Links The meeting highlighted the importance of maintaining regular engagement between business communities and translating commercial interest into practical outcomes. Both sides emphasised the potential for new investment opportunities, joint ventures and long-term partnerships that could strengthen trade and economic cooperation between Pakistan and the Netherlands. The visiting delegation included Arjan Hoop, Chilot van Slooten, Dick Tool, Lonneke Timmermans, Martijn Koolhoven, Martijn van der Harst, Remt Melles, Joep Verbunt, Eugène Soffers, Guido Ide, Sandra Soffers, Marloes Massier, Berny Plas, Amir Alam and Maryam Hasan, alongside delegation leader Merlin Melles. The interaction concluded with a shared emphasis on continued dialogue, stronger business-to-business connections and the exploration of mutually beneficial trade and investment opportunities.

Textile Export Decline: Global Inflation and High Freight Rates Hit Manufacturers
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Textile Export Decline: Global Inflation and High Freight Rates Hit Manufacturers

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Facing Headwinds: The Looming Crisis in Textile Exports The country’s primary export-oriented sector is bracing for a severe downturn as it enters the final quarter of the year. Industry leaders have flagged an unprecedented contraction in export volumes, driven by a combination of sluggish international demand, skyrocketing logistics overheads, and persistent local financial hurdles. Without immediate, proactive intervention from policymakers, stakeholders warn that the industry risks losing critical global market share that could take years to recover. Global Pressures and Surging Logistics Costs International market conditions have turned increasingly hostile for domestic garment and fabric manufacturers. Persistent inflationary pressures across Western economies have significantly dampened consumer appetite, resulting in reduced order volumes from major international brands and buyers. Compounding this soft demand is a dramatic spike in international shipping expenses. Maritime freight charges have surged to between 1.5 and 2.5 times their previous levels, squeezing already fragile profit margins. Combined with inflating local input expenses, these international logistics barriers are aggressively eroding the price competitiveness of local shipments on the global stage. Policy Implementation Gaps and Liquidity Squeezes Beyond external challenges, domestic structural bottlenecks continue to impede the viability of the supply chain. Representatives point out that while the government previously outlined a fixed Export Finance Scheme (EFS) rate of 4.5% in the fiscal framework, commercial banks continue to charge significantly higher interest rates, ranging from 5.5% to as high as 8.5%. Furthermore, trade bodies have raised concerns regarding anomalies in fund allocations, noting that capital frequently flows into heavily regulated or negative-list categories while high-performing, value-adding producers face financing rejections. Industry advocates are urging authorities to expedite pending tax refunds, reinstate targeted Duty Drawback of Local Taxes and Levies (DLTL) support between 6% and 8%, and eliminate distortionary cross-subsidies in industrial power tariffs. Modernization Strategy for Sustainable Growth To navigate these turbulent economic waters and secure long-term viability, industry analysts emphasize the need for a fundamental strategic shift. Rather than relying on reactive short-term fixes, stakeholders are proposing a comprehensive 10-year strategic roadmap alongside a targeted modernization package. Proposals include injecting substantial financing into key segments, such as ginning, sizing, weaving, and processing to upgrade machinery, embrace automation, and adopt sustainable green production standards. Experts maintain that aligning state support directly with actual export performance and modernizing industrial infrastructure are crucial steps to safeguarding the economy’s vital foreign exchange lifeline.

KTML Shifts to High-Skill European Brands for Better Margins
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KTML Shifts to High-Skill European Brands for Better Margins

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Kohinoor Textile Mills Expands Focus on European Buyers Kohinoor Textile Mills Limited (KTML) is shifting away from volume-driven orders from US retailers towards European buyers seeking specialised, labour-intensive textile products. The strategy is aimed at improving margins by prioritising higher-value manufacturing over competing primarily on price. The shift is reflected in the company’s export mix. Europe accounted for 56% of KTML’s exports in FY26, compared with 50% a year earlier. Meanwhile, the US share declined to 34% from 42% over the same period. The changing distribution highlights the company’s growing focus on European brands that require specialised production capabilities and more value-added home textile products. Higher Labour Content Supports Better Margins KTML is targeting European brands whose orders require dedicated sewing, finishing and other specialised production skills, rather than relying heavily on generic homewear supplied to large US retail chains. These products typically involve a greater labour component relative to raw materials, potentially allowing the company to capture stronger margins through specialised manufacturing. Pakistan’s cost advantage in skilled textile labour also provides an opportunity to compete with other manufacturing destinations. KTML is seeking to capitalise on this advantage by moving up the value chain and supplying products that require greater technical expertise. The strategy represents a shift towards product differentiation and specialised manufacturing, allowing the company to focus on the value it adds rather than relying exclusively on large order volumes. Home Textile Margins Improve as Earnings Rise KTML’s financial performance reflects the contribution of its home textile business. Revenue from the segment increased by 6% during FY26, while its gross margin improved to 22.5%, compared with 19.9% a year earlier. The company’s consolidated earnings rose 18% to Rs19.9 billion, equivalent to Rs14.77 per share. Lower power and finance costs also supported the improvement in profitability. Although revenues from spinning and weaving declined modestly, stronger contributions from home textiles and subsidiaries more than offset the weakness in those businesses. For FY27, management expects core revenue to grow by 3–5%, with margins remaining stable. The outlook indicates that the company intends to build on its higher-value product strategy while maintaining profitability. Lower Energy Costs Strengthen Competitiveness Energy efficiency is another important element of KTML’s strategy. The company’s average power cost declined by 9% to Rs27.9 per unit as it increased its reliance on electricity from the national grid. KTML is also expanding its energy infrastructure to reduce costs further. A 48.36 MW battery storage system and an additional 9.34 MW solar plant are scheduled for completion by December 2026. Following these additions, solar energy’s share of the company’s power mix is expected to increase from 23% to 32%. The planned investments are projected to generate annual savings of approximately Rs600 million. Lower electricity costs could help KTML preserve margins while allocating resources towards specialised European orders and more labour-intensive manufacturing processes. KTML’s European Strategy Targets Long-Term Profitability KTML’s changing export mix reflects a broader effort to strengthen its competitive position in international textile markets. By increasing its exposure to European buyers, the company is targeting customers that value specialised production, skilled labour and higher-value products. Improved home textile margins, lower energy costs and investments in battery storage and solar power could support the strategy as the company enters FY27. Management’s expected revenue growth of 3–5% and stable-margin outlook will depend on sustaining demand, maintaining production efficiency and converting its specialised manufacturing capabilities into profitable export orders. The transition suggests that KTML is placing greater emphasis on margin quality and value addition rather than pursuing growth through volume alone.

Women Tech Quest marks 10th edition with 1,000 participants
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Women Tech Quest marks 10th edition with 1,000 participants

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Women Tech Quest 2026 Draws Participants Across Three Cities KARACHI, October 10, 2026: The 10th edition of Women Tech Quest (WTQ) 2026 brought together 1,000 women for a technology competition organised by 10Pearls, with activities held simultaneously in Karachi, Lahore and Islamabad. The event received more than 5,000 registrations from across Pakistan and focused on applying artificial intelligence (AI) to coding, design, quality assurance and software testing. Held under the theme “Compete. Create. Connect.”, the competition aimed to provide women with opportunities to demonstrate their technical abilities, solve practical problems using AI tools and build professional connections within the technology sector. The 10th edition marked a decade of efforts to encourage women’s participation in technology through competitions, skills development and networking opportunities. Karachi Hosts More Than 600 Participants The competition attracted participants at three venues across the country. Around 200 women attended the event at FAST-NUCES in Islamabad, another 200 gathered at the 10Pearls office in Lahore, while more than 600 participated at the National Aerospace Science and Technology Park (NASTP) in Karachi. In addition to the competition, more than 400 people attended conference sessions, panel discussions and networking activities. The programme brought together technology professionals, industry representatives and other stakeholders to discuss emerging opportunities in AI and the importance of developing relevant technical skills. By combining practical challenges with professional engagement, Women Tech Quest sought to connect participants with the wider technology ecosystem and encourage greater participation in Pakistan’s digital economy. Three Competition Categories Focus on Practical AI Applications Women Tech Quest 2026 featured three categories designed to explore different applications of artificial intelligence. Participants were challenged to apply AI tools to real-world problems, highlighting the growing role of these technologies across software development, creative work and quality assurance. The three-category structure also provided opportunities for women with different technical interests and skill sets to demonstrate their abilities. Government, Diplomatic and Banking Representatives Attend The event was attended by British Deputy High Commissioner in Karachi Alison Blackburne, British High Commission Head of Lahore Office Ben Warrington, Chief of Staff at the Office of AI and Special Initiatives Aman Arman, and Bank of Punjab Head of Governance, Digital Banking Sidra Jawaid. Their participation reflected the involvement of stakeholders from diplomatic, public-sector and financial institutions in discussions surrounding women’s participation in technology and the development of digital skills. The event also featured conference sessions and panel discussions, offering participants opportunities to engage with professionals and explore industry trends. 10Pearls Highlights Women’s Role in Pakistan’s Digital Economy Speaking at the event, 10Pearls Managing Director for the Middle East and Pakistan Rabia Azfar Nizami said Women Tech Quest was launched a decade ago to give women opportunities to demonstrate their abilities, strengthen technical skills and build careers in technology. She emphasised that platforms providing women with access to skills, professional networks and industry opportunities were important for enabling them to contribute to Pakistan’s digital economy. As AI adoption expands across industries, technical proficiency and the ability to apply emerging tools to practical challenges are becoming increasingly important. Initiatives such as Women Tech Quest aim to create opportunities for women to develop these capabilities and connect with potential professional pathways. Nine Winners Share Rs500,000 in Prize Money Nine winners were announced across the three competition categories, sharing total prize money of Rs500,000. The winners also received AI credits and giveaways from Google and Figma, providing additional resources and incentives for participants working with technology and design tools. The event was supported by Lay’s, the Bank of Punjab, Figma, Hilton Pharma and Cheezious. The involvement of corporate and technology partners helped support an initiative focused on technical development, competition and professional networking. A Decade of Encouraging Women in Technology Over the past 10 years, Women Tech Quest has sought to encourage women’s participation in the technology sector through competitions, skills development and opportunities to build professional relationships. Its 2026 edition comes as the adoption of artificial intelligence creates new opportunities while increasing demand for technical capabilities across the digital economy. With more than 5,000 registrations and 1,000 participants across three cities, the event highlighted continued interest in AI-related learning and competition among women in Pakistan. The initiative’s broader focus remains on helping women develop relevant skills, demonstrate their capabilities and access networks that can support their participation in the technology workforce.

3rd Chitral Expo 2026 Inaugurated by Commandant Chitral Scouts
Pakistan

3rd Chitral Expo 2026 Inaugurated by Commandant Chitral Scouts

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TDAP and Chitral Chamber Organise Two-Day Exhibition CHITRAL, October 10, 2026: The Trade Development Authority of Pakistan (TDAP), Peshawar, in collaboration with the Chitral Chamber of Commerce & Industry (CCCI), inaugurated the 3rd Chitral Expo 2026 at Pamir Riverside Inn Hotel, Chitral. The two-day exhibition was formally inaugurated by Col. Arsalan, Commandant Chitral Scouts. The event brought together representatives of the business community, government departments, banks and non-governmental organisations (NGOs) to promote local products, encourage entrepreneurship and explore opportunities for trade and investment in the region. The exhibition aims to provide businesses with a platform to showcase their products, connect with potential buyers and strengthen commercial linkages across Chitral and other parts of Pakistan. Speakers Highlight Chitral’s Economic and Trade Potential The inaugural ceremony featured speeches by Col. Arsalan, Commandant Chitral Scouts; Noman Bashir, Director TDAP Peshawar; Fahad Azam, President CCCI; and Aseer, Coordinator CCCI. The speakers highlighted Chitral’s potential in tourism, handicrafts, fresh fruits and vegetables, dry fruits, honey, gemstones, minerals and other value-added products. They emphasised the importance of supporting local enterprises, improving access to domestic and international markets, strengthening public-private partnerships and creating new trade and investment opportunities for the region. Chitral’s diverse natural resources, agricultural produce and traditional craftsmanship offer opportunities for local businesses to expand their reach and develop commercially viable products. The expo provides a venue for entrepreneurs to present these offerings to visitors, businesses and other stakeholders. 70 Stalls Showcase Products From Chitral and Other Regions The 3rd Chitral Expo 2026 attracted exhibitors from Lower and Upper Chitral, including Booni, Karimabad, Kalash and Garam Chashma, as well as Swat, Peshawar and Faisalabad. A total of 70 stalls were arranged for the exhibition, including 10 food stalls. The stalls feature a range of local and regional products, handicrafts and food items, offering participating businesses an opportunity to introduce their products to a wider audience. The participation of exhibitors from different locations also creates opportunities for business networking and the exchange of ideas, helping entrepreneurs explore potential partnerships beyond their immediate markets. Expo Creates Opportunities for SMEs and Business Networking The exhibition provides a platform for entrepreneurs, small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) and established businesses to display their products, establish business-to-business (B2B) connections and explore new markets. The involvement of government departments, financial institutions, NGOs and business representatives reflects a collective effort to support Chitral’s economic development. By bringing businesses and institutional stakeholders together, the expo seeks to encourage collaboration, improve market access and help local enterprises identify opportunities for growth. Such platforms can also help regional producers understand market requirements, build commercial relationships and explore ways to add value to locally sourced products. TDAP Help Desk Inaugurated at Chitral Chamber At the conclusion of the inaugural ceremony, chief guest Col. Arsalan also inaugurated a TDAP Help Desk at the Chitral Chamber of Commerce & Industry. The help desk is intended to facilitate local businesses, entrepreneurs and exporters seeking access to TDAP’s services and support for trade promotion and export development. Its establishment provides a dedicated point of contact for businesses looking to explore export opportunities and obtain assistance related to trade promotion. The initiative complements the expo’s broader objective of connecting local enterprises with institutions that can help them develop their businesses and access wider markets. Chitral Expo Continues Through October 11 The 3rd Chitral Expo 2026 will continue on October 11, providing additional opportunities for product promotion, business networking and collaboration among exhibitors and stakeholders. Through the combined participation of businesses, government representatives and supporting institutions, the event seeks to highlight Chitral’s commercial potential and encourage greater economic activity across the region.

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