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Haleon Pharma 2QCY26 Earnings Expected To Fall 9% As Volumes Decline And Costs Rise
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Haleon Pharma 2QCY26 Earnings Expected To Fall 9% As Volumes Decline And Costs Rise

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Haleon Pakistan is expected to report weaker earnings for the second quarter of calendar year 2026, with declining sales volumes and rising input costs likely to put pressure on profitability. According to estimates from Optimus Capital, the company’s earnings per share (EPS) is projected at PKR 12.6, representing a 3% decline from the previous quarter and a 9% year-on-year drop. Profit after tax (PAT) is expected to come in at approximately PKR 1.5 billion. The anticipated decline reflects a combination of weaker domestic demand, limited pricing flexibility and higher production and transportation costs. Sales Volumes Expected To Weaken Haleon’s net sales are projected to decline 8% year-on-year during 2QCY26. The expected weakness is largely attributed to an estimated 3% decline in local volumes. The company’s FMCG-focused portfolio has also not received a price increase during the period under review. This leaves Haleon more exposed to changes in consumer demand, particularly at a time when households continue to face pressure from higher living costs. Lack Of Price Increases Adds Pressure Pricing has become an important earnings driver across Pakistan’s pharmaceutical sector. Several pharmaceutical companies have benefited from price increases that helped offset higher input costs and protect margins. Haleon, however, has not enjoyed the same benefit during the quarter because its consumer-health portfolio has remained largely price-static. With volumes expected to decline and prices remaining unchanged, the company has limited room to absorb rising production and distribution expenses. Gross Margin Likely To Compress Haleon’s gross margin is expected to decline by around one percentage point sequentially to 38.2%. Higher active pharmaceutical ingredient (API) costs are expected to be a key factor behind the pressure. Pain-care products are particularly exposed to rising prices of relevant pharmaceutical ingredients. Transportation costs have also increased, adding another layer of pressure to the company’s cost structure. The combination of higher input and logistics expenses could continue to weigh on profitability if pricing remains unchanged. Dividend Expected To Remain At PKR9 Per Share Despite the expected decline in earnings, Optimus Capital projects a quarterly dividend of PKR9 per share. Maintaining the dividend would indicate continued confidence in Haleon’s cash-generation capacity despite weaker quarterly profitability. However, the expected payout also highlights the challenge facing the company: maintaining shareholder distributions while margins are under pressure from rising costs and weaker volumes. Haleon Faces A Different Sector Environment The broader pharmaceutical sector is expected to perform better during the period. Optimus Capital estimates that the pharmaceutical sector could record around a 6% increase in profit after tax, supported by price increases and lower financial charges. Haleon’s position is different because of its consumer-health and FMCG exposure. The company’s lack of pricing gains during the quarter means it is less able to offset cost inflation through higher selling prices. Export Challenges Add To Industry Pressure Pakistan’s pharmaceutical industry is also facing external challenges. Constraints along the Afghan border continue to affect export opportunities for pharmaceutical companies, limiting potential growth from regional markets. For Haleon, however, the immediate concern appears to be domestic demand. A combination of weaker local volumes and higher API and logistics costs could remain a challenge if regional supply-chain pressures persist. API And Logistics Costs Remain Key Risks Haleon’s earnings outlook remains sensitive to movements in raw material and transportation costs. Any further increase in API prices could put additional pressure on gross margins. Higher freight and logistics expenses could have a similar impact, particularly if the company remains unable to pass these costs on to consumers through price increases. This makes cost management increasingly important for protecting profitability in the coming quarters. Volume Recovery Could Be Critical The company’s near-term performance will depend heavily on whether domestic volumes begin to recover. A rebound in consumer demand could provide support to revenue and help improve operating leverage. Selective pricing adjustments could also provide Haleon with greater flexibility to manage future cost increases. Without improvement in either volumes or pricing, however, the company could continue to lag behind pharmaceutical peers benefiting from stronger pricing dynamics. Haleon Earnings Outlook Remains Under Pressure The projected PKR12.6 EPS for 2QCY26 highlights the difficult operating environment facing Haleon. A projected 9% year-on-year earnings decline, an 8% fall in sales and expected gross-margin compression point to continued pressure on the company’s core operations. The expected PKR9 dividend provides some positive news for shareholders, but sustained earnings improvement will ultimately depend on stronger volumes and better control over API and transportation costs. For investors, the key indicators to watch in coming quarters will be domestic demand, pricing flexibility, API prices and logistics costs.

K-Electric’s Financial Reporting Delay Continues, Leaving Investors Without FY2025 Results
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K-Electric’s Financial Reporting Delay Continues, Leaving Investors Without FY2025 Results

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K-Electric Limited (KEL), Pakistan’s only vertically integrated power utility, remains significantly behind its statutory financial reporting obligations, with audited results for the year ended June 30, 2025 still unavailable as of August 2026. The prolonged delay means shareholders and investors have been without the company’s latest audited financial information for more than 13 months after the close of FY2025. The situation also continues under K-Electric’s new leadership, headed by CEO Syed Muhammad Taha and Chairman Shaheryar Arshad Chishty. K-Electric Remains Beyond Statutory Reporting Deadline Under Section 223 of the Companies Act, 2017, listed companies are required to present audited financial statements before shareholders at an Annual General Meeting within 120 days of the financial year-end. For companies with a June 30 financial year-end, the normal deadline falls around late October. The Securities and Exchange Commission of Pakistan (SECP) can grant an extension of up to 30 days in special circumstances. Pakistan Stock Exchange (PSX) regulations also require companies to disseminate financial results promptly after Board approval and provide the annual report to shareholders at least 21 days before the AGM. K-Electric has gone well beyond these timelines. Latest Available Results Date Back To 2024 The latest financial information available through the PSX Data Portal dates back to September 23, 2025, covering K-Electric’s financial year ended June 30, 2024. Audited accounts for FY2025 have not been released, while subsequent quarterly results also remain outstanding. This leaves investors without a complete picture of the utility’s latest financial position, profitability, liabilities and cash-flow situation. PSX Had Already Set A March 2026 Deadline The reporting backlog is not new. In December 2025, PSX directed K-Electric to submit overdue financial statements covering FY2024 and FY2025 and conduct the related AGMs by March 31, 2026. That deadline has since passed without the outstanding FY2025 accounts being presented. The continued delay raises questions about how quickly the company can clear its regulatory and reporting backlog under its new management. Auditors Raised Concerns Over NEPRA Proceedings The reporting problem emerged in late 2025 when K-Electric’s auditors sought greater clarity over the potential financial impact of several pending proceedings before the National Electric Power Regulatory Authority (NEPRA). These matters reportedly included tariff reviews, write-off claims and related reconsideration requests. K-Electric had previously postponed its scheduled November 2025 AGM, citing uncertainty surrounding the outcomes of these regulatory matters. The unresolved proceedings appear to have complicated the process of finalising the company’s financial accounts. Syed Taha Takes Charge Amid Reporting Backlog The prolonged delay has continued through a major leadership transition at K-Electric. In March 2026, the company’s Board appointed Syed Muhammad Taha as Chief Executive Officer, effective April 15, 2026, replacing interim CEO Adeeb Ahmad. Taha brought extensive experience from the energy sector, having served as Managing Director and CEO of Pakistan State Oil (PSO) from 2020 to 2026. He also previously held the position of Chief Distribution Officer at K-Electric. His appointment came alongside a change at the Board level, with Shaheryar Arshad Chishty assuming the role of Chairman. New Management Faces Multiple Challenges The new leadership inherited an energy company dealing with several significant operational and regulatory challenges. These include: While Syed Taha has emphasised operational improvements, infrastructure upgrades and better service reliability, clearing the company’s outstanding financial reporting remains a critical corporate governance issue. Reporting Delays Create Investor Uncertainty For shareholders, audited financial statements are essential for assessing the company’s financial health and future prospects. A prolonged absence of audited accounts makes it harder for investors to evaluate: The uncertainty can also affect credit assessments and discussions with lenders, investors and other financial stakeholders. Regulatory Scrutiny Could Increase PSX and SECP have powers to issue directives and take action against companies that fail to meet applicable reporting requirements. Possible regulatory consequences can include penalties, additional compliance directions and increased scrutiny. However, the continued absence of FY2025 financial statements as of August 2026 raises questions about whether further regulatory action will be taken to address the prolonged delay. The March 2026 PSX deadline has already passed, making the outstanding reporting issue increasingly difficult to treat as a routine administrative delay. K-Electric’s Transparency Challenge K-Electric operates one of Pakistan’s most strategically important power networks, making timely financial disclosure particularly important. The company’s financial position has implications not only for shareholders but also for lenders, regulators, suppliers, employees and other stakeholders connected to the electricity sector. The longer the reporting gap continues, the more difficult it becomes for stakeholders to obtain a current and independently audited assessment of the company. New Leadership Faces A Key Test The appointment of Syed Taha and Shaheryar Chishty created expectations of stronger operational and financial management at K-Electric. The unresolved FY2025 accounts now represent an immediate test for the new leadership. Clearing the backlog would give investors greater visibility into the company’s financial condition and allow K-Electric to move forward with greater transparency. It could also help rebuild confidence among shareholders and other financial stakeholders. K-Electric Needs To Close Its Reporting Gap More than a year after the end of FY2025, K-Electric’s audited financial results remain unavailable. The delay began amid uncertainty surrounding NEPRA proceedings but has continued despite a subsequent PSX deadline and a major change in the company’s leadership. For investors, the issue is no longer simply about a delayed annual report. It is about transparency, regulatory compliance and confidence in one of Pakistan’s most important power companies. The key question now is whether Syed Taha’s new management team will prioritise clearing the financial reporting backlog and provide stakeholders with a complete and audited picture of K-Electric’s financial position. Until that happens, investors remain dependent on outdated financial information while the company continues to operate under heightened scrutiny.

Cherat Cement’s 4QFY26 Profit Falls 6% As Rising Costs Erase Pricing Gains
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Cherat Cement’s 4QFY26 Profit Falls 6% As Rising Costs Erase Pricing Gains

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Cherat Cement Company Limited (CHCC) reported a 6% year-on-year decline in profit after tax (PAT) to PKR 1.7 billion for the fourth quarter of FY2026, as rising input costs put significant pressure on profitability. Earnings per share (EPS) declined to PKR 8.94, compared with PKR 9.51 recorded in the same quarter last year. The results highlight the growing pressure on Pakistan’s cement manufacturers, where improvements in pricing and dispatch volumes are struggling to keep pace with rising production costs. Gross Margins Contract Sharply Cherat Cement’s gross margin fell considerably to 27.4% from 32.6% a year earlier. The decline came despite some positive developments in the company’s operating performance. Local cement dispatches increased 1.6% year-on-year, while retention prices improved by around 10%. Ordinarily, stronger pricing combined with modest volume growth would be expected to support margins. However, the improvement was more than offset by higher input costs. The magnitude of the margin decline was also greater than market expectations. Coal Prices Emerge As Major Pressure Point Higher coal prices appear to have been one of the biggest factors behind the margin compression. Coal costs increased approximately 23% year-on-year, significantly raising the company’s production expenses. A less favourable fuel mix may have added further pressure to the cost structure. While management has yet to provide complete clarity on the extent of the margin deterioration, the results indicate that the benefits from improved pricing were insufficient to absorb the increase in fuel and other production costs. Sales And Operating Profit Decline Cherat Cement’s net sales fell 9% year-on-year to PKR 8.9 billion during the quarter. Operating profit performed even worse, declining 28% year-on-year. The sharper decline in operating profit compared with sales reflects the significant impact of cost inflation on the company’s underlying profitability. The numbers suggest that the quarter’s weakness was primarily operational rather than the result of financing costs. Lower Finance Costs Provide Some Relief One positive factor was the reduction in finance costs. Cherat Cement’s finance expenses declined 26% year-on-year, helped by a major reduction in short-term borrowings. Short-term debt fell to just PKR 194 million, compared with PKR 2.7 billion a year earlier. This reduction provided some relief to the bottom line and helped offset part of the pressure created by weaker operating profitability. However, the improvement in financing expenses was not enough to compensate for the deterioration in gross and operating margins. Lower Tax Rate Supports Bottom Line Other charges also declined significantly during the quarter. In addition, the company recorded a lower effective tax rate of 27.5%, compared with 38.7% during the same period last year. The lower tax burden helped limit the decline in net profit. However, these factors represent secondary support for earnings and do not resolve the underlying issue of rising production costs. Full-Year FY26 Profit Declines 16% For the full financial year FY2026, Cherat Cement reported a 16% decline in profit after tax to PKR 7.3 billion. Gross profit declined by 14%, despite relatively stable full-year sales. The annual performance reinforces the pressure seen during the final quarter, with higher input costs weighing on profitability despite improvements in pricing and operating conditions. Final Dividend Takes Full-Year Payout To PKR5.5 Cherat Cement has announced a final cash dividend of PKR4 per share. This takes the company’s total FY26 dividend payout to PKR5.5 per share. The final payout was broadly in line with market expectations. While the dividend provides some support for shareholders, the distribution does not change the broader concern surrounding the company’s operating margins and earnings outlook. Solar And Battery Projects Could Reduce Energy Costs Cherat Cement is planning investments aimed at reducing its exposure to high energy costs. The company is expected to invest in a 5.4 MW solar project along with a 25 MW battery storage system. These projects could help reduce energy expenses and improve the company’s cost structure once they become operational. A shift toward grid power and a potential decline in coal prices are also viewed as possible positives for future profitability. Margin Recovery Still Depends On External Factors The outlook for Cherat Cement remains closely tied to developments in energy and commodity markets. A recovery in local demand and improved retention prices could provide support to revenues. However, the company remains exposed to several external risks, including coal price volatility, regional tensions and energy-market uncertainty. There is also execution risk associated with the planned solar and battery projects. Until these investments begin contributing to the cost structure, Cherat Cement may remain vulnerable to elevated energy expenses. Pricing Power Alone Is Not Enough Cherat Cement’s 4QFY26 results demonstrate the limitations of relying on pricing improvements when production costs are rising rapidly. Although local dispatches increased and retention prices improved, the 23% increase in coal prices contributed to a substantial deterioration in gross margins. The decline in operating profit further highlights the pressure on the company’s core business. Lower borrowing costs and a reduced tax burden helped protect earnings, but these benefits were not enough to prevent a decline in quarterly and full-year profitability. Cherat Cement Faces A Critical Margin Test Cherat Cement enters FY27 with potential positives from stronger domestic demand, pricing improvements and planned investments in renewable energy and battery storage. However, the recovery in profitability remains dependent on factors that are not entirely within the company’s control. A meaningful decline in coal prices, successful execution of its energy projects and sustained improvements in local cement demand will be important for restoring margins. Until then, the 4QFY26 results serve as a clear reminder that pricing gains alone cannot protect cement-sector profitability when input costs rise sharply.

Pakistan Korea CEPA Talks Gain Momentum as Seoul Conference Secures Six Business Deals
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Pakistan Korea CEPA Talks Gain Momentum as Seoul Conference Secures Six Business Deals

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Pakistan Korea CEPA negotiations have gained fresh commercial momentum after a major trade and investment conference in Seoul brought together more than 170 Pakistani and Korean businessmen and produced six Memoranda of Understanding between companies from both countries. The development is significant because the conference took place as Pakistan and the Republic of Korea prepare for the next phase of negotiations on a Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement. Pakistan Commerce Minister Jam Kamal Khan said the first round of negotiations had been successfully completed, with the second round expected soon. The proposed Pakistan Korea CEPA could eventually create wider market access for Pakistani exporters. However, the real test will not be the signing ceremony. It will be whether Pakistani companies can actually increase exports, secure long term Korean buyers and compete effectively in one of Asia’s most demanding markets. Six MOUs Put Pakistan Korea CEPA Under Commercial Pressure The Seoul conference resulted in six MOUs covering business areas including salt, cosmetics, oil and sesame seed trade. Pakistani companies from Sialkot, Gujranwala and other business chambers participated in the B2B sessions with Korean companies. These agreements are expected to provide a foundation for future commercial contracts. Yet an MOU should not be confused with confirmed investment or guaranteed export revenue. This is where Pakistan Korea CEPA faces an important credibility test. Pakistan has signed or announced numerous business agreements in the past, but many have struggled to translate into large scale commercial activity. The government and business organizations therefore need to publish follow up data showing how many of these six MOUs become actual purchase orders, investments or export contracts. Without such tracking, MOUs can easily become headline generating events rather than measurable economic outcomes. Pakistan Targets Textiles Leather IT and Agro Food Exports The conference highlighted Pakistan’s export potential in textiles and apparel, leather products, surgical and sports goods, agro food products, minerals and IT services. These sectors offer substantial opportunities in Korea, but opportunity alone will not guarantee market penetration. Pakistani exporters face intense competition from established Asian suppliers that already benefit from efficient logistics, consistent quality standards, advanced production systems and strong buyer relationships. The Pakistan Korea CEPA could help address some of these barriers by improving market access and creating clearer trade rules. Pakistani exporters, however, will still need to meet Korean standards, strengthen product branding and ensure reliable delivery. For Pakistan, this means CEPA negotiations should not focus only on tariff reductions. The agreement should also address non tariff barriers, certification requirements, customs procedures and practical access for smaller exporters. Korean Investors Need More Than Export Promises Officials from the Special Investment Facilitation Council and the Trade Development Authority of Pakistan briefed Korean participants about investment and export opportunities. The message is attractive, but Korean investors are likely to examine Pakistan’s business environment beyond promotional presentations. Regulatory predictability, energy costs, taxation, dispute resolution, infrastructure and foreign exchange conditions will remain critical factors in investment decisions. Pakistan therefore needs to convert trade conferences into a structured investor facilitation mechanism rather than treating them as isolated promotional events. The Pakistan Business Association of Korea and the Embassy of Pakistan in Seoul are expected to continue facilitating commercial engagement. A second conference is also planned for March 2027. Pakistan Korea CEPA Needs Results Not Just Announcements The Seoul conference is a positive signal for Pakistan Korea CEPA, but six MOUs should be viewed as an opening rather than a breakthrough. The real economic impact will depend on whether these agreements produce actual trade and investment. Pakistan also needs to identify high value Korean markets, prepare exporters for technical requirements and aggressively pursue sectors where Pakistani products can compete on quality and price. If the government can connect CEPA negotiations with measurable export targets and sustained private sector engagement, the agreement could become an important tool for expanding Pakistan’s presence in the Korean market. If not, the latest conference risks becoming another example of Pakistan generating impressive trade headlines without achieving equally impressive commercial results.

SECP Proposes New Insurance Rules With Strict Deadlines For Claim Settlement
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SECP Proposes New Insurance Rules With Strict Deadlines For Claim Settlement

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The Securities and Exchange Commission of Pakistan (SECP) has issued the draft Market Conduct Rules 2026 for insurance companies, proposing stricter timelines for claim processing and stronger protections for insurance consumers. The proposed rules, issued for public consultation, will apply specifically to individual insurance policies and introduce mandatory deadlines for insurers to process and settle claims. Under the draft framework, insurance companies would also face financial penalties for violating the proposed requirements. Insurance Claims To Face Mandatory Deadlines The draft rules set different deadlines depending on the type of insurance claim. Life insurance claims would have to be decided within 20 days of the insurer receiving all required documents. For motor insurance, companies would be required to decide claims within five days of receiving the survey report. Other non-life insurance claims would have to be decided within seven days of the survey. Once an insurance claim has been approved, the insurer would be required to make the payment within seven days. The SECP’s proposed timelines are intended to reduce delays and provide greater certainty to policyholders waiting for claim decisions and payments. Health Insurance Claims Get Stricter Protection The proposed rules also introduce specific requirements for health insurance claims involving hospitalisation. Hospitalised health insurance claims would have to be settled within 20 days. Insurance companies would also be required to provide approval for hospital discharge within three hours. Importantly, patients could not be prevented from leaving a hospital because of delays caused by an insurance company. The proposed requirement seeks to ensure that disputes or delays between hospitals and insurers do not unnecessarily keep patients admitted. Insurers Limited To Relevant Documents Under the draft rules, insurance companies would only be allowed to request documents that are relevant to the claim being processed. The proposed requirement is aimed at preventing unnecessary documentation from becoming a reason for delaying or rejecting claims. Insurers would also have to publish information on their websites showing the number of claims that have been settled, rejected and remain pending. The published information would also have to include the proportion of claims that have remained pending for more than one year. This requirement is expected to improve transparency and allow consumers to better assess the claims-handling performance of insurance companies. New Insurance Applications To Be Processed Quickly The draft Market Conduct Rules also propose deadlines for processing new insurance applications. Applications for new insurance policies would have to be processed within seven days. Life insurance policy documents would need to be issued within 20 days. For policies sold through digital channels, the proposed deadline would be significantly shorter, with documents required to be issued within three days. The shorter digital timeline reflects the growing use of online platforms for purchasing insurance products. New Rules Proposed For Motor Insurance The SECP has also proposed additional consumer protections for motor insurance policyholders. Insurance companies would be required to inform customers about the vehicle’s current market value and explain the implications of both over-insurance and under-insurance. The requirement could help customers better understand the level of coverage they are purchasing and the potential consequences when the insured value differs significantly from the vehicle’s actual market value. The draft rules also state that approved repairs under motor insurance claims should generally be completed within 15 days. This could help reduce lengthy repair delays for policyholders whose vehicles have been damaged in accidents. Right To Cancel Non-Life Policies Another proposed consumer protection would give non-life insurance policyholders the right to cancel their policies without providing a reason. The provision would give consumers greater flexibility after purchasing a policy and strengthen their ability to exit insurance arrangements where they no longer wish to continue coverage. The proposed framework broadly focuses on improving transparency, speeding up claims and reducing practices that can create unnecessary difficulties for policyholders. Insurers Could Face Rs1m Fine The SECP has proposed financial penalties for companies that violate the new rules. A violation could result in a fine of up to Rs1 million. For continued violations, insurers could face an additional penalty of up to Rs10,000 per day. The penalties are designed to encourage insurance companies to comply with the proposed deadlines and consumer-protection requirements. However, the rules are still in the consultation stage and could be amended before final approval. SECP Seeks Public Feedback The SECP has invited comments, suggestions and objections from the public and relevant stakeholders on the draft Market Conduct Rules 2026. Stakeholders have 30 days to submit their feedback. Following the consultation process, the proposed rules will be presented to the SECP Policy Board for consideration and approval. If approved, the framework would introduce a more structured set of obligations for insurers when dealing with individual policyholders. The proposed measures could particularly benefit consumers who face delays in claim decisions, payments, hospital discharge approvals or policy documentation.

Google Launches Digital Pasban In Pakistan To Improve Online Safety For 200,000 Households
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Google Launches Digital Pasban In Pakistan To Improve Online Safety For 200,000 Households

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Google has launched Digital Pasban in Pakistan, a new initiative aimed at helping 200,000 households improve online safety and develop stronger digital literacy skills. Google.org, the technology company’s philanthropic arm, has committed $500,000 to expand digital citizenship and artificial intelligence safety programmes across Pakistan. The initiative was unveiled at the “Safe Raho with Google” event on Thursday and will provide families with Urdu-language digital safety toolkits, instructional videos and practical training. The programme will reach families through schools, broadcast media, SMS alerts and campaigns conducted with partner organisations. Digital Pasban is being implemented in collaboration with the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA), with support from the Ministry of Information Technology and Telecommunication, Ministry of Federal Education and Professional Training and Ministry of Inter Provincial Coordination. The initiative is designed to help parents, children and guardians navigate the growing digital environment while understanding common online risks. Digital Pasban Focuses On Four Areas Of Online Safety The programme focuses on four key areas of digital safety and literacy, including parental controls, online safety education for children, responsible AI use and practical training for parents and guardians. Google’s Family Link will allow parents to manage their children’s screen time, approve applications, apply content filters and locate devices. Parents will also be able to use YouTube’s parental controls to manage age-appropriate content and establish healthier viewing habits. These controls include “Take a Break” and “Bedtime” reminders. Parents can also set limits on their children’s use of YouTube Shorts, including reducing Shorts usage to zero. The tools are intended to give parents greater control over their children’s digital activities while encouraging safer and more balanced internet use. Google Introduces Online Safety Programme For Children Digital Pasban will also use Google’s Be Internet Awesome programme for children between the ages of seven and 12. The programme uses interactive learning, including the Interland game, to teach children basic online safety principles. Children will learn about issues such as identifying scams, creating stronger passwords, behaving responsibly online and reporting inappropriate or concerning activity. The initiative aims to make digital safety education easier for younger users to understand by combining practical lessons with interactive activities. Google believes that teaching children responsible online behaviour at an early age can help them develop safer digital habits as internet access expands across Pakistan. Families To Learn About Safe And Responsible AI Use Artificial intelligence is another major component of Digital Pasban. The programme will introduce families to Google’s Gemini AI as a tool for responsible artificial intelligence use. Google said safeguards designed for minors restrict harmful role-play and inappropriate content. Gemini’s Guided Learning feature is also intended to help students understand difficult subjects through step-by-step explanations, questions and visual aids. The focus on AI safety comes as generative AI tools become increasingly accessible to students and families. Digital Pasban aims to help parents understand how AI tools can be used constructively while also encouraging them to remain aware of potential risks associated with online and AI-powered services. Parent Safety Clinics To Provide Practical Training The initiative will also organise safety clinics for parents and guardians. These sessions will provide hands-on guidance on digital safety and allow families to practise responding to common online risks. PTA Chairman Major General (Retired) Hafeez Ur Rehman said the programme would contribute towards creating a safer digital environment for children and families. He highlighted the importance of practical tools, localised resources and engagement through schools. Google’s Cluster Director for Pakistan, the Philippines, Thailand and Frontier Markets, Farhan Qureshi, said the initiative was designed to help families benefit from the country’s expanding digital ecosystem while keeping children safer online. The company said Digital Pasban builds on its previous digital education and safety initiatives in Pakistan. Google Expands Digital Literacy Efforts In Pakistan Google said its Digital Safar programme has already trained more than 300,000 students and 5,000 educators in digital citizenship. The company has also partnered with Punjab’s Ministry of Education to introduce Google for Education and AI-powered learning and safety resources to 1.5 million students. The latest initiative expands those efforts by bringing digital safety resources directly to families and parents. With the internet, social media platforms and AI tools becoming increasingly important in education and everyday life, the Digital Pasban programme seeks to improve awareness of online risks while helping Pakistani families use digital technology more responsibly. The $500,000 Google.org commitment is expected to support the expansion of digital citizenship and AI-safety programmes, while the involvement of government institutions and schools could help the initiative reach a wider audience. The programme’s focus on Urdu-language resources, school engagement and practical parent training is intended to make online safety guidance more accessible to families across Pakistan.

Asim Munir Says Foreign-Sponsored Proxies Seeking To Destabilise Balochistan
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Asim Munir Says Foreign-Sponsored Proxies Seeking To Destabilise Balochistan

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Chief of Defence Forces (CDF) and Chief of Army Staff Field Marshal Asim Munir has said foreign-sponsored proxies in Balochistan are being used by hostile elements to undermine peace, obstruct development and create divisions between the state and the people. According to Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR), the army chief made the remarks while interacting with Balochistan’s political leadership. He stressed that the future of Balochistan and Pakistan was closely linked, describing the province as an important part of the country’s development and prosperity. “The present and the future of Balochistan and Pakistan are one and forever,” Munir said, according to the military’s media wing. The CDF highlighted the resilience, talent and patriotic spirit of Balochistan’s people. He said lasting peace and stability were essential for unlocking the province’s economic potential, attracting investment and converting its human and natural resources into greater prosperity. Munir also emphasised the importance of young people in the province. He said Balochistan’s youth represented one of the most promising sections of society and stressed that providing them with education, opportunities and avenues for participation in national development was critical to sustainable progress. Army Chief Links Security Threats To Foreign Proxies During the meeting, Munir identified what the state describes as Fitna al Khawarij and Fitna al Hindustan as foreign-sponsored proxies being used by hostile elements against Balochistan. The military uses the term Fitna al Khawarij for militants associated with the banned Tehreek-i-Taliban Pakistan (TTP), while Fitna al Hindustan is a term used by the state for terrorist organisations operating in Balochistan. According to ISPR, Munir said these groups were attempting to destabilise the province, prevent development and widen the gap between the state and its citizens. He said such efforts would be countered through a collective national response and decisive action by the state. The CDF also called for a stronger response to what he described as hostile propaganda and misleading narratives. He stressed the need to expose false claims and highlight the development, potential and aspirations of Balochistan’s people. “Destiny of Balochistan rests only in the hands of the people of Balochistan,” ISPR quoted him as saying. Focus On Youth, Development And Social Cohesion Munir praised Balochistan’s political leaders, notables and other influential figures for their role in promoting peace and social cohesion. He urged them to support a constructive national discourse and help counter narratives that could deepen divisions within society. The military leadership has repeatedly linked peace and economic development in Balochistan, where the government has sought to attract investment by highlighting the province’s mineral, energy and strategic potential. Munir said a clear national narrative, combined with lasting peace and stability, was necessary to create conditions for investment and development. The participants of the meeting reaffirmed their commitment to peace, development and prosperity in Balochistan and Pakistan. According to ISPR, they pledged to stand alongside the state and armed forces against threats to peace and stability. They also expressed their commitment to people-centred development and a more peaceful and prosperous province. Balochistan Faces Rising Security Challenges The remarks come as Balochistan continues to face a serious security challenge, with violence increasing sharply in recent months. According to a monthly security assessment released by the Pakistan Institute for Conflict and Security Studies (PICSS), Balochistan recorded a significant deterioration in its security situation in July. The report said the province’s overall death toll increased by 241 per cent, rising from 109 deaths in June to 372 in July. The number of security personnel killed also rose sharply. According to the assessment, deaths among security personnel increased from six in June to 62 in July, representing a rise of 933 per cent. Terrorist deaths increased from 75 in June to 238 in July, while civilian deaths rose from 28 to 54, an increase of 93pc. The report also recorded the deaths of 18 members of peace committees. The figures underline the scale of the security challenge facing the province as authorities seek to maintain stability while advancing economic and development initiatives. Against this backdrop, Munir’s message focused on combining security measures with development, youth empowerment and social cohesion.

Imran Khan Declared Medically Fit After Pims Check-Up, Shifted Back To Adiala Jail
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Imran Khan Declared Medically Fit After Pims Check-Up, Shifted Back To Adiala Jail

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Information Minister Attaullah Tarar said on Friday that PTI founder Imran Khan was medically fit after undergoing a detailed medical examination at the Pakistan Institute of Medical Sciences (Pims) in Islamabad. The former prime minister was taken to the government-run hospital during the night between August 20 and 21 and was shifted back to Adiala jail at around 5am on Friday. Tarar said a team of qualified doctors, including an ophthalmologist, cardiologist and physician, examined Imran. He added that Imran’s sister Dr Uzma Khan was present during the medical examination. The minister initially did not identify the hospital where Imran had been taken. He later clarified that the examination took place at Pims, while doctors from Shifa International Hospital were also present. The development followed a Supreme Court order directing the government to move Imran to Shifa International Hospital for a medical check-up. The court had issued the direction earlier this week while hearing petitions concerning the PTI founder’s health and access to medical treatment and family members. Tarar said the government took the decision to use Pims because of the security situation surrounding Shifa Hospital. He claimed PTI workers had gathered along the route and outside the private hospital, creating security concerns. “In light of the security situation created by PTI workers on the way to and outside Al Shifa Hospital, he was taken to Pims,” Tarar said in a subsequent post on X. He maintained that Imran was found healthy after the medical examination and assured that the former premier would continue to receive medical treatment whenever required. Tight Security Around Shifa Hospital Authorities had made extensive security arrangements around Shifa International Hospital in Islamabad on Thursday night in anticipation of Imran’s arrival. Around 800 personnel from different law enforcement agencies were deployed around the hospital following a security assessment. Roads leading towards the hospital were barricaded, while security pickets were established at several locations. Islamabad Police Chief Syed Ali Nasir Rizvi also visited the hospital twice to review security preparations. According to a security order issued by Islamabad Police, personnel were assigned to protect lives and property, prevent possible terrorist activity, maintain public order and ensure smooth traffic movement. The security measures caused significant activity around the hospital, with police vehicles and barricades visible in the area. The PTI had earlier appealed to supporters not to gather around the hospital during Imran’s medical visit. PTI Information Secretary Sheikh Waqas Akram asked supporters to maintain distance and allow the former premier to receive medical care without disruption. Supreme Court Had Ordered Transfer To Shifa The Supreme Court on Tuesday directed the government to shift Imran from Adiala jail to Shifa International Hospital within two days for a medical examination. A three-member bench headed by Justice Shahid Waheed, with Justices Naeem Akhtar Afghan and Ishtiaq Ibrahim, issued the order while hearing petitions seeking Imran’s hospitalisation and greater access for his family. The court stressed that imprisonment does not remove a prisoner’s right to humane treatment and necessary medical care. It said the state had a constitutional and legal responsibility to protect the life, health, dignity and security of people in custody. The government subsequently challenged the order by filing a review petition. However, the Supreme Court registrar’s office returned the petition on Thursday, citing incomplete paper books. Concerns Over Imran Khan’s Health The Supreme Court’s intervention followed a report submitted by the superintendent of Adiala jail regarding Imran’s health. The report said medical officers examine him three times a day and monitor his meals, blood pressure, heart rate and oxygen saturation. However, a medical assessment by Pims physician Dr Akhtar Ali Bandeshah on August 1 recorded complaints including fluctuating blood pressure, palpitations, headaches and restlessness. The doctor recommended measures to reduce mental stress and suggested more frequent meetings with family members. He also recommended a CT coronary angiography and an adjustment in blood pressure medication. A Pims medical board later examined Imran on August 10 after he complained of heaviness in his head and palpitations. The board recommended daily walking and relaxation as part of his prison routine. It also advised access to newspapers, books, magazines and television. The board further recommended more frequent interaction with his immediate family or spouse, saying such interaction could help manage anxiety and blood pressure. The jail report also mentioned Imran’s treatment for an eye condition at Pims. According to the report, his vision had almost returned to normal following treatment by senior ophthalmologists. Imran has remained imprisoned since August 2023 and is currently serving a 14-year sentence in the £190 million Al-Qadir Trust corruption case. His health has repeatedly become a point of political dispute, with the PTI accusing the government of restricting access to appropriate medical treatment and personal doctors. The government has rejected those allegations and maintained that Imran is receiving necessary healthcare in custody.

Commerce Minister Pushes Sovereign Cloud And AI-Powered Trade Ecosystem For Pakistan
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Commerce Minister Pushes Sovereign Cloud And AI-Powered Trade Ecosystem For Pakistan

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Pakistan is moving toward a more secure and integrated digital framework for trade as Federal Minister for Commerce Jam Kamal Khan explores the development of a sovereign cloud and AI-enabled ecosystem for the Ministry of Commerce and its attached organizations. On August 21, 2026, the Commerce Minister held separate meetings with representatives of the Pakistan Digital Authority (PDA) and the management of Sky47 to discuss secure data exchange, local cloud infrastructure, cybersecurity and the use of artificial intelligence in trade policymaking. The discussions focused on treating government data as a strategic national asset and using technology to improve decision-making, export development and public-sector efficiency. Pakistan’s Trade Data Identified As A National Asset Jam Kamal Khan highlighted the large amount of trade-related information held by the Ministry of Commerce. This includes data covering thousands of tariff and product lines, exporters, international markets, trade bodies, chambers of commerce, business associations and Pakistan’s overseas trade missions. The Minister said this information is currently dispersed across different parts of the government and needs to be standardized, integrated and made available to authorized users in secure and usable formats. He emphasized that Pakistan’s trade data should not simply be stored. It should be transformed into actionable intelligence for exporters, businesses and policymakers. Ministry Seeks Greater Digital Integration The Commerce Ministry also wants to improve connectivity between its different wings and attached organizations. The proposed digital ecosystem could link the Ministry’s departments with the Trade Development Authority of Pakistan, chambers of commerce, trade associations and Pakistani trade officers operating in more than 55 countries. Greater integration of the Ministry’s digital portals could provide policymakers and businesses with a more unified view of trade activity, international markets and export opportunities. Such a system could also reduce duplication and make it easier for authorized officials to access relevant information when preparing trade policies. Pakistan Digital Authority Discusses Data Governance The Pakistan Digital Authority briefed the Commerce Minister on the emerging national framework for data governance, data exchange, enterprise architecture and cloud adoption. The discussions included a proposed classification system under which government information could be categorized as: An important principle discussed during the meeting was that ownership and control of government data should remain with the relevant ministry or public institution. The proposed framework would allow departments to exchange information securely without transferring entire datasets unnecessarily. Secure And Purpose-Based Data Exchange The participants stressed the importance of purpose-based data sharing. Under such an approach, a government department would receive only the information necessary for a specific task rather than gaining unrestricted access to an entire database. This could improve data security while reducing the risk of confidential or personal information being misused. A standardized and traceable data-exchange mechanism could also help government institutions monitor who is accessing information and for what purpose. For a ministry dealing with sensitive commercial and exporter information, such controls could become increasingly important as digital integration expands. AI Could Transform Trade Policymaking Artificial intelligence emerged as another major area of discussion. Jam Kamal Khan highlighted the potential of AI to analyze trade trends, identify new export opportunities and assist policymakers in developing market-specific recommendations. An indigenous AI platform trained on authorized government and sectoral datasets could potentially provide policymakers with faster insights into international markets, product demand, tariffs and export performance. The objective would be to move toward evidence-based trade policymaking rather than relying solely on conventional reports and manually compiled information. Indigenous AI Platform Proposed The Minister also emphasized the potential value of developing an AI system specifically designed around Pakistan’s authorized trade and economic data. Such a platform could potentially analyze large volumes of information and help identify: However, the effectiveness of such a system would depend heavily on the quality, accuracy and governance of the underlying datasets. Sky47 Meeting Focuses On Sovereign Cloud Infrastructure The separate meeting with Sky47 focused on Pakistan’s data-centre capacity, sovereign cloud infrastructure, cybersecurity and disaster recovery. The Sky47 team briefed the Minister on its existing data-centre infrastructure and plans to expand secure and reliable hosting capacity within Pakistan. The discussions emphasized the potential benefits of modern data centres that can provide highly reliable services while reducing the risks associated with fragmented and individually maintained departmental facilities. For Pakistan, expanding domestic data-centre capacity could help create the infrastructure needed for growing cloud-computing and AI requirements. Data Centres Must Prepare For AI And Future Computing The meetings also examined the changing requirements of digital infrastructure. Topics included energy-efficient cooling, intelligent data storage, metadata management and data-fabric technologies. The participants also discussed the distinct computing requirements of conventional applications, artificial intelligence models and potential future quantum-computing workloads. As AI systems require increasingly large amounts of computing power and data, Pakistan will need infrastructure capable of supporting these workloads securely and efficiently. Data Sovereignty Becomes A Strategic Priority Jam Kamal Khan stressed that Pakistan needs sufficient local capacity to host critical national data within the country. Keeping sensitive government information under domestic control could strengthen data sovereignty and cybersecurity while also supporting investment in cloud computing, AI and digital services. The issue is particularly relevant as government employees and institutions increasingly use publicly available foreign technology platforms for communication, analysis and productivity. Concerns Over Foreign AI Platforms The Commerce Minister expressed concern about the use of publicly available foreign AI platforms for confidential official work. He called for clearer guidelines, greater awareness and the development of secure domestic alternatives to prevent sensitive government correspondence and institutional information from being transferred to unauthorized external systems. The concern highlights a growing policy challenge: governments want to benefit from AI while ensuring that sensitive information remains protected. Clear rules around what information can be entered into external AI systems could therefore become an important part of Pakistan’s digital governance framework. Government Technology Procurement Needs Reform The discussions also covered public-sector technology procurement. Participants highlighted the need for modern cloud-procurement frameworks that would allow government organizations to purchase infrastructure, platforms and software as services without being constrained by lengthy procedures designed for

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Govt Moves To Simplify Tax Filing As Aurangzeb Launches Asaan Tajir App

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Finance Minister Muhammad Aurangzeb on Wednesday renewed his call for a simplified tax return form for salaried taxpayers, saying there was “no logic” behind the lengthy and complicated filing process currently required from one of Pakistan’s most documented segments. The finance minister made the remarks at the Federal Board of Revenue (FBR) headquarters during the launch of a mobile application for the Fixed Tax Asaan Scheme, aimed at helping small traders and shopkeepers register and file their tax returns digitally. Aurangzeb was accompanied by Minister of State for Finance Bilal Azhar, FBR Chairman Rashid Mahmood Langrial and representatives of the trading community. “I do not see any logic for this complicated form,” Aurangzeb said, arguing that even an MBA graduate could face difficulties completing the existing tax return. He pointed out that around 70 per cent of salaried income is deposited directly into bank accounts after taxes are deducted, leaving limited scope for additional income streams that would justify a highly complicated filing process. ‘Asaan Tajir’ App Launched For Small Traders The government also launched the Asaan Tajir mobile application to facilitate small traders and shopkeepers under the Fixed Tax Asaan Scheme. The application features a simplified tax form in Urdu and is available through the Google Play Store under the “Asaan Tajir” icon. Traders can register through the application and receive a Payment Slip Identification Number (PSID), which can then be used to pay their tax digitally. Once the payment is completed, users will receive confirmation of their registration under the scheme and an updated tax filer status. The application will also provide information about the benefits available to registered traders. Minister of State Bilal Azhar said the application would be made available on Apple’s App Store in the coming days. He added that the government planned to introduce versions in other local languages, including Pashto, Balochi and Sindhi, by the first week of September. Green Identification Plates For Registered Traders The government also plans to issue physical green identification plates to traders registered under the scheme. Bilal Azhar displayed a sample of the plate, which he said would contain security features to help identify genuine participants in the tax scheme. Traders who register before the tax-filing deadline will receive the identification plate free of charge. The eventual price of the plate is expected to remain below Rs1,500. The initiative is also intended to reduce unnecessary interaction between registered traders and tax officials. FBR Chairman Rashid Mahmood Langrial said that once the identification plate was displayed, no FBR officer or official would enter the shop of a bona fide registered trader for routine tax matters. The FBR chairman expressed hope that the scheme would attract a strong response from the trading community and improve both taxpayer registration and revenue collection. The Fixed Tax Asaan Scheme was announced ahead of the federal budget presented on June 5. The government subsequently worked on developing the digital application and identification system. Traders To Receive Local Support The government also plans to provide assistance to traders who face difficulties using the digital system. According to Bilal Azhar, traders will be able to approach designated focal offices and officials at Regional Tax Offices in their respective districts. The support mechanism is intended to encourage registration among small businesses that may have limited experience with digital tax filing. The government has been attempting to broaden the country’s tax base by bringing previously under-documented segments of the economy into the formal tax system. The simplified application is part of that effort, allowing traders to complete registration and tax payment through a digital platform rather than relying entirely on conventional paperwork. Pakistan Seeks US Support Facility Speaking to reporters after the launch, Finance Minister Aurangzeb also disclosed that Pakistan had formally requested a US Exchange Stabilisation Support Facility as part of its efforts to strengthen the rupee and improve foreign exchange reserve stability. He said negotiations with the United States were currently under way and Pakistan expected a response from the US Treasury or US Exim Bank by the end of September 2026. The reported request, which could amount to around $10 billion, is primarily aimed at strengthening market confidence in Pakistan’s currency and external sector rather than functioning as a conventional loan. The facility could potentially provide additional financial support at a time when Pakistan is seeking to reduce its dependence on repeated loan rollovers. Govt Seeks Longer Debt Maturities Aurangzeb said Pakistan was also working toward extending debt maturities to reduce the pressure created by frequent refinancing and bilateral loan rollovers. The government is exploring arrangements involving maturities of five, seven and 10 years. He said Pakistan was seeking to extend the maturity period of existing bilateral loans for as long as 10 years where possible. Longer maturities would give Pakistan greater room to manage external debt repayments and reduce the frequency with which the government needs to seek refinancing or rollover arrangements. The finance minister’s comments therefore covered two key areas of Pakistan’s economic policy: simplifying tax compliance for documented taxpayers and strengthening external financial stability.

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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