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Pakistan Business Confidence Index Fell Sharply Reported by OICCI Survey
Pakistan

Pakistan Business Confidence Index Fell Sharply Reported by OICCI Survey

The Pakistan Business Confidence Index has suffered a major setback in the second quarter of 2026, highlighting growing anxiety among businesses over inflation, rising fuel costs, geopolitical instability, and weakening investment activity. According to the latest Wave 29 Business Confidence Survey released by the Overseas Investors Chamber of Commerce and Industry (OICCI), overall business confidence dropped by nine percentage points, falling from 22% to just 13%. The sharp decline reflects increasing concerns among businesses that Pakistan’s economic recovery is losing momentum amid the ongoing conflict in the Middle East and mounting domestic challenges. Pakistan Business Confidence Index Signals Growing Economic Stress The latest survey paints a worrying picture of the country’s business environment. Companies across multiple industries reported that regional instability has disrupted supply chains, increased operating costs, and forced many firms to rethink expansion plans. Perhaps the most alarming finding was the collapse in investment sentiment. The New Investment Index fell by 10 percentage points to only 2%, suggesting that many businesses have effectively paused short-term investment decisions. Between 70% and 80% of surveyed companies reported delaying, reducing, or restructuring investment plans while seeking alternative supply routes to protect themselves from disruptions linked to the Middle East conflict. Services Sector Faces the Biggest Blow The Services sector emerged as the biggest casualty of deteriorating business confidence. Its confidence score plunged by 20 percentage points, dropping from 34% to 14%. The Manufacturing sector also experienced a decline of seven points, reflecting concerns about rising input costs and weaker market demand. The Retail and Wholesale sector was the only bright spot in the survey, posting a modest improvement of three percentage points to reach a positive 20%. This limited improvement suggests that consumer spending remains somewhat resilient despite broader economic pressures. Foreign Investors Remain Surprisingly Resilient Despite widespread concerns, foreign investors demonstrated notable resilience. OICCI member companies, which represent some of Pakistan’s largest multinational investors and account for a significant share of foreign direct investment, improved their confidence level slightly from 27% to 28%. This suggests that while short-term challenges remain severe, major international investors continue to see long-term potential in Pakistan’s economy. The survey also revealed growing interest among these companies in generative artificial intelligence and digital transformation initiatives, indicating that many businesses are continuing to invest in future competitiveness despite current uncertainties. Inflation and Taxes Top Business Concerns The survey identified inflation as the most serious threat facing businesses in Pakistan. A staggering 84% of respondents cited inflation as the biggest obstacle to growth. High taxation followed closely, with 79% expressing concerns about the country’s tax burden. Meanwhile, 61% of businesses highlighted currency stability issues and inconsistent government policies as major risks affecting business planning and investment decisions. These findings underline the challenges policymakers face in restoring confidence and encouraging private-sector growth. Business Outlook Turns Increasingly Pessimistic Business leaders are becoming increasingly cautious about the future. Around 34% of survey participants expect business conditions to worsen over the next six months, compared with 22% in the previous survey. The perception of the global business environment also deteriorated sharply, with the relevant indicator falling by 31 percentage points. Most respondents believe the economic consequences of the Middle East conflict will continue for at least another six months. According to OICCI Secretary General M. Abdul Aleem, businesses are operating in an increasingly complex environment where geopolitical risks, supply chain disruptions, and investment uncertainty are creating significant challenges. Regional Divide Emerges in Business Confidence The survey also highlighted a growing regional contrast. Business confidence in Pakistan’s major metropolitan centers declined significantly, falling from 23% to 11%. In contrast, non-metropolitan cities such as Peshawar, Quetta, Rawalpindi, Multan, Sialkot, and Sukkur recorded an improvement from 19% to 22%. This trend suggests that economic activity outside major urban centers may be showing greater resilience despite nationwide challenges. What the Pakistan Business Confidence Index Means for the Economy The latest Pakistan Business Confidence Index serves as a warning sign for policymakers and investors alike. With investment activity slowing, inflation remaining stubbornly high, and geopolitical tensions creating uncertainty, businesses are demanding policy stability, cost relief, and stronger economic management. Since the OICCI survey represents businesses contributing nearly 80% of Pakistan’s GDP, its findings offer one of the clearest snapshots of corporate sentiment in the country. Unless inflationary pressures ease and investor confidence returns, Pakistan may face a more challenging economic landscape in the second half of 2026.

Govt Sets Reduced 4% Growth Target Amid Structural Weaknesses
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Govt Sets Reduced 4% Growth Target Amid Structural Weaknesses

Low Growth Ambition Signals Challenges Heavy Reliance on Imports and Debt The federal government has set a modest 4% economic growth target for fiscal year 2026-27, acknowledging limited progress in fixing structural issues. The Annual Plan Coordination Committee (APCC), chaired by Planning Minister Ahsan Iqbal, approved the macroeconomic framework for the next fiscal year. This 4% target is even lower than the previous year’s 4.2% goal, which the government failed to achieve. Ahsan Iqbal admitted higher growth is possible but warned against relying on increased imports and consumption. He highlighted the government’s inability over four years to boost investment, savings, and exports meaningfully. Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has led since April 2022, presenting four budgets with limited structural reforms. The Planning Minister criticised the celebration of private debt through Eurobonds and Panda Bonds. “Borrowing loans by issuing bonds and then celebrating it is shameful,” Iqbal stated during the APCC meeting. He stressed that seeking debt rollovers from friendly countries is not an honourable way to run the economy. Pakistan continues to seek over $12 billion in annual rollovers from Gulf nations and China. Sectoral Targets and Job Creation External Sector Under Pressure The APCC set agriculture growth at 3.8%, large-scale manufacturing at 4.5%, and overall industrial growth at 4%. Services sector is targeted to grow by 4.2%, driven by trade, transport, and financial services. National savings target is fixed at 14.3% of GDP while investment goal stands at 15% of GDP.The government projects creation of two million new jobs, with services adding 1.1 million. Inflation target has been set at 8.2%, higher than this year’s estimated 7.1%. Imports are projected to surge past $70 billion, up 5.6% from the current year.Exports target is a modest $32.8 billion, only 8.4% higher than this year’s estimate. Remittances are expected to reach $42.3 billion, growing just 2.7% amid Middle East tensions. The current account deficit is targeted at $3.6 billion or 0.7% of GDP. Ahsan Iqbal noted that Pakistan cannot escape the IMF without reducing dependence on foreign rollovers.

Mobile Tax Trap: 37% Levies Stifling Pakistan’s Digital Growth
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Mobile Tax Trap: 37% Levies Stifling Pakistan’s Digital Growth

High Taxes Suppress Mobile Adoption Pakistan Lags Regional Peers A new report commissioned by telecom group VEON and prepared by Frontier Economics has highlighted how excessive taxes are raising costs and slowing down the country’s digital transformation. The study reveals that mobile services in Pakistan face a combined sales and turnover tax burden of 37%.This includes 19.5% sales tax, 15% advance income tax, and 2.5% regulatory duty. On top of this, operators pay 29% corporate income tax and 10% super tax on profits. These levies ultimately result in higher prices for consumers, discouraging smartphone ownership and data usage. Currently, 68% of individuals aged 15 and above do not own a smartphone. Pakistan ranks 101st out of 105 countries in average internet speeds, with average revenue per user (ARPU) at just $1 per month. The report notes that Pakistan has one of the highest combined sales tax rates on mobile internet in the region at 35%, second only to Bangladesh at 39%. Economic Impact and Long-term Risks Call for Tax Reforms High taxes reduce mobile penetration and usage, which in turn slows digitalisation and keeps the tax base narrow, creating a self-reinforcing trap. The study estimates that a 1% increase in mobile penetration could boost GDP per capita growth by 0.115 percentage points. Mobile connectivity brings positive spillovers across education, healthcare, financial services, and e-commerce. Pakistan is already lagging behind in 5G readiness and has nearly one-third of its population outside 4G coverage. Fixed broadband penetration remains among the lowest in the region. The report suggests reducing the combined tax burden from 37% to 17% through cuts in customer taxes and regulatory charges. Such reforms may initially reduce direct revenue but could become revenue-positive by 2031 through expanded economic activity and a broader tax base. Telecom operators are urging the government to reduce the 15% advance income tax, abolish duties on equipment, and rationalise sector-specific levies ahead of the federal budget. Lower taxes would improve affordability and accelerate broadband expansion in underserved areas.

* Imran Ghaznavi Joins Privatisation Commission as Chief Media Officer and Principal Spokesman*
Pakistan

Imran Ghaznavi Joins Privatisation Commission as Chief Media Officer and Principal Spokesman

Mr. Imran Ghaznavi has joined the Privatisation Commission as Chief Media Officer and Principal Spokesperson, assuming a key role in strategic communication and external relations. Read More: https://theboardroompk.com/pakistan-mango-exports-hit-by-middle-east-crisis-as-target-slashed-by-30-percent/ He will focus on shaping public narrative, strengthening stakeholder confidence, and supporting the country’s reform agenda through a strategic communication initiatives. With over 20 years of experience across the public and private sectors, Mr. Ghaznavi holds MS Mass Communication and MBA (Marketing) degrees with distinction, along with specialized training from the United States. He has served in senior roles at PIA, FBR, SECP, CCP, the Planning Commission, and leading media organizations. Most recently, he took farewell from OGRA, where he served as Spokesperson & Senior Executive Director Corporate and Media Affairs. A well-known figure in his field, Mr. Ghaznavi brings extensive expertise in strategic communication, regulatory affairs, and corporate governance.

Pakistan EU Strategic Dialogue Unlocks New Trade and Investment Opportunities
Pakistan

Pakistan EU Strategic Dialogue Unlocks New Trade and Investment Opportunities

The Pakistan EU Strategic Dialogue has emerged as a major diplomatic and economic development, with both Pakistan and the European Union expressing strong interest in transforming their relationship into a broader and more ambitious partnership. During the 8th Pakistan-EU Strategic Dialogue in Islamabad, Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar and European Union foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas highlighted significant untapped opportunities that could reshape economic, political and strategic cooperation between the two sides. The meeting comes at a time when global trade routes, geopolitical alliances and economic partnerships are rapidly evolving, making stronger Pakistan-EU cooperation more important than ever. Pakistan Sees Untapped Potential in EU Partnership Speaking at the high-level dialogue, Ishaq Dar emphasized that Pakistan’s relationship with the European Union has a strong foundation but remains far from reaching its full potential. According to Dar, several sectors offer opportunities for deeper engagement, particularly trade, investment, economic development and institutional cooperation. The foreign minister stressed that both sides should maintain regular strategic dialogues to ensure continuous progress and stronger diplomatic coordination. His remarks reflected Islamabad’s growing desire to diversify international partnerships and attract foreign investment amid challenging global economic conditions. Pakistan EU Strategic Dialogue Focuses on Long-Term Vision One of the most significant developments emerging from the dialogue was Pakistan’s proposal for a comprehensive strategic vision designed to guide future cooperation. Building upon the Strategic Engagement Plan of 2019 and the Cooperation Agreement signed in 2004, Pakistan aims to create a more forward-looking framework capable of addressing modern challenges and opportunities. The proposed vision seeks to: • Deepen political understanding• Expand sectoral cooperation• Strengthen institutional partnerships• Promote sustainable economic growth• Enhance regional stability initiatives Officials believe such a framework could elevate Pakistan-EU relations beyond traditional diplomatic engagement and create a stronger long-term alliance. EU Remains Pakistan’s Largest Export Market A major highlight of the Pakistan EU Strategic Dialogue was the recognition of the European Union’s critical role in Pakistan’s economy. Kaja Kallas noted that the EU remains Pakistan’s largest export destination, surpassing even the combined markets of the United States and China. This reality underscores the strategic importance of maintaining strong ties with Europe at a time when global trade competition is intensifying. The EU official described the partnership as more than a commercial relationship, calling it a key driver of economic growth and development for Pakistan. GSP Plus Continues to Deliver Major Benefits Pakistan continues to be the world’s largest beneficiary of the Generalised Scheme of Preferences Plus (GSP+), a trade arrangement that provides duty-free or reduced-duty access to European markets. The scheme has played a crucial role in boosting Pakistan’s exports, particularly in textiles, apparel and manufacturing sectors. However, European officials also signaled that continued access to GSP+ benefits depends on Pakistan’s progress in implementing international commitments related to: • Human rights• Labour rights• Good governance• Environmental protection• Minority protections While the EU has acknowledged progress made by Pakistan, it has also stressed the need for deeper reforms in the coming years. Climate, Technology and Migration Emerge as New Cooperation Areas Beyond trade, the Pakistan EU Strategic Dialogue highlighted several emerging sectors that could define future cooperation. Kallas identified climate resilience, digital infrastructure, migration management and sustainable connectivity as priority areas where both sides can deepen engagement. These sectors are becoming increasingly important as countries adapt to climate challenges, technological transformation and changing labor markets. Analysts believe that collaboration in these areas could unlock billions of dollars in future investment opportunities while supporting sustainable economic development. Pakistan’s Diplomatic Role Gains International Recognition Another notable aspect of the discussions was the recognition of Pakistan’s diplomatic engagement in international conflicts. Kallas praised Pakistan’s efforts in facilitating dialogue between the United States and Iran, noting the broader global impact of regional instability on energy markets and fertilizer prices. The acknowledgement highlights Pakistan’s growing role as a diplomatic bridge-builder at a time of heightened geopolitical tensions. Why the Pakistan EU Strategic Dialogue Matters The latest Pakistan EU Strategic Dialogue signals that both sides are moving beyond traditional diplomatic exchanges toward a more comprehensive strategic partnership. For Pakistan, stronger engagement with the European Union could mean greater export growth, increased foreign investment, improved market access and stronger support for economic modernization. For the European Union, deeper cooperation offers an opportunity to strengthen regional stability, expand trade networks and engage with one of South Asia’s most strategically positioned economies. As global uncertainties continue to reshape international relations, the growing momentum behind Pakistan-EU cooperation could become one of the most significant diplomatic and economic developments for Pakistan in the years ahead.

Pakistan Mango Exports Hit by Middle East Crisis as Target Slashed by 30 Percent
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Pakistan Mango Exports Hit by Middle East Crisis as Target Slashed by 30 Percent

Pakistan Mango Exports are entering one of the most challenging seasons in recent years as geopolitical tensions in the Middle East, record-high freight charges, climate-related disruptions, and falling fruit production combine to threaten one of the country’s most valuable agricultural exports. The export season officially begins on June 1, but industry leaders are already warning that the sector could suffer substantial losses. Exporters have revised their export target downward by nearly 30 percent, reflecting growing concerns over market access, transportation costs, and declining crop yields. Pakistan Mango Exports Target Cut Amid Mounting Pressures The Pakistan Fruit and Vegetable Exporters, Importers and Merchants Association (PFVA) has reduced its export target from 110,000 tons last year to just 80,000 tons this season. According to PFVA Patron-in-Chief Waheed Ahmed, exporters are facing an unprecedented combination of challenges that threaten the industry’s profitability and international competitiveness. The reduction is expected to have a direct impact on foreign exchange earnings. Pakistan earned approximately $110 million from mango exports last season. This year, export revenues are expected to fall sharply to between $75 million and $80 million. For an industry that plays a critical role in Pakistan’s agricultural exports, the decline raises serious concerns about future growth prospects. Middle East Crisis Sends Freight Costs Soaring The escalating crisis in the Middle East has emerged as the biggest threat to Pakistan Mango Exports this year. The Gulf region accounts for nearly 35 percent of Pakistan’s mango exports, making it the country’s largest overseas market. However, growing regional instability has severely disrupted shipping routes and increased transportation expenses. Sea freight rates have surged dramatically. Exporters who paid between $1,200 and $1,400 per container last season are now facing charges as high as $6,000 to $7,000 per container. Air freight costs have also skyrocketed. Shipping mangoes by air previously cost between 70 and 90 cents per kilogram. Those rates have now climbed to almost $2 per kilogram, making exports significantly less profitable. These rising logistics costs are placing enormous pressure on exporters already struggling with higher production and operational expenses. Strong Rupee and Rising Fuel Costs Create Double Burden The challenges facing Pakistan Mango Exports extend beyond international shipping disruptions. Rising domestic fuel prices have increased transportation costs from orchards to packing houses and ports. At the same time, a relatively stronger Pakistani rupee has reduced export returns when converted into local currency. This combination has squeezed profit margins and left exporters with fewer options to absorb growing costs. Industry experts warn that without government intervention, many exporters could struggle to remain competitive in international markets. Climate Change Shrinks Mango Production While trade disruptions dominate headlines, deeper structural problems continue to threaten the future of Pakistan’s mango industry. Climate change, unpredictable weather patterns, and increasing vulnerability to diseases have steadily reduced mango production over the past several years. Industry estimates suggest that this year’s mango crop could be around 20 percent below Pakistan’s average annual production of 1.9 million tons. Lower yields not only affect export volumes but also raise concerns about the long-term sustainability of mango farming across major producing regions. Can Pakistan Mango Exports Recover? Despite the difficult outlook, exporters remain determined to protect Pakistan’s position in global markets. Industry leaders believe the country still possesses significant untapped export potential if quality standards improve and growers receive better technical support. PFVA has called on the government to increase investment in agricultural research, modern orchard management, disease control programs, and export facilitation measures. Officials have also been urged to address shipping delays, improve port operations, and strengthen diplomatic engagement with Gulf buyers to minimize disruptions caused by the regional crisis. Without immediate action, industry stakeholders warn that even the revised export target of 80,000 tons may prove difficult to achieve. A Defining Season for Pakistan’s Mango Industry This year’s export season could become a defining moment for Pakistan Mango Exports. The industry is facing a perfect storm of geopolitical uncertainty, soaring logistics costs, climate-related production losses, and shrinking profit margins. How policymakers, exporters, and growers respond in the coming months may determine whether Pakistan can protect its global market share or risk losing ground to competing mango-producing countries in an increasingly competitive international marketplace.

GO Plants 600,000+ Saplings in Push for Greener Pakistan
Pakistan

GO Plants 600,000+ Saplings in Push for Greener Pakistan

Gas & Oil Pakistan (GO) continues to strengthen its environmental sustainability agenda through its nationwide GO Sarsabz Pakistan Project, under which the company has increased annual sapling distribution from 50,000 in 2019, to 100,000 in 2020, 150,000 in 2021, 300,000 in 2022, and approximately 600,000 saplings in 2025, with nearly 300,000 saplings distributed during the Fall 2026 season alone, focused on large-scale plantation and development of green cover across the country. As part of its long-term commitment towards environmental responsibility and sustainable development, GO has expanded plantation and green cover initiatives across multiple regions of Pakistan through a growing network of nurseries and afforestation activities. Initiated in 2019 with the establishment of a nursery at Renala Khurd (Okara), the project focuses on cultivating and distributing shade, fruit, and ornamental plants during key plantation seasons. Building on the success of the initiative, GO has further expanded its environmental footprint through additional nurseries at Mehmood Kot and Daulatpur (Sindh), while collaborative efforts are also underway in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa to support plantation and sapling distribution activities in the province. “Operating in the energy sector comes with a broader responsibility towards the environment and future generations,” said the GO spokesperson. “Through the GO Sarsabz Pakistan Project, we are committed to playing a meaningful role in promoting environmental sustainability, increasing green cover, and contributing towards a cleaner and greener Pakistan.” GO believes that sustainability and responsible corporate citizenship must remain integral to long-term business growth. Through continued expansion of the GO Sarsabz Pakistan Project, the company aims to further strengthen its contribution towards environmental conservation and climate-conscious initiatives across the country.

Hutchison Ports Pakistan Secures New 4,000 TEUs Transshipment Volume
Pakistan

Hutchison Ports Pakistan Secures New 4,000 TEUs Transshipment Volume

Karachi, 01 June 2026 – Hutchison Ports Pakistan is actively driving the government’s vision to position Karachi as a premier regional maritime hub, announcing the arrival of fresh transshipment volumes across a series of newly scheduled vessel calls. Read More: https://theboardroompk.com/pakistan-mango-exports-hit-by-middle-east-crisis-as-target-slashed-by-30-percent/ The terminal has recently received two new transshipment vessels, with a third scheduled to arrive in the first week of June. Together, these operations will bring in 4,000 TEUs of new transshipment volume, building securely on the 10,330 TEUs successfully handled since March 2026. This continuous operational surge directly aligns with the vision of Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif and the proactive leadership of the Ministry of Maritime Affairs (MoMA) Minister, Muhammad Junaid Anwar Chaudhry. Working alongside the Karachi Port Trust (KPT), these strategic initiatives aim to attract global carriers and elevate Pakistan’s blue economy. Crucially, this milestone is being achieved seamlessly while concurrently managing the terminal’s routine, high-volume domestic import and export traffic with zero disruption. Commenting on the momentum, CS Kim, CEO of Hutchison Ports Pakistan, stated, “The arrival of this new transshipment volume of 4,000 TEUs adds great momentum to the 10,300 TEUs we have already handled since March. This growth is a clear testament to the collaborative efforts of MoMA, KPT, and the vital support from Pakistan Customs in transforming Karachi into a highly competitive transshipment port. Backed by these strong policy incentives and our high-efficiency infrastructure, we remain committed to scaling these operations and elevating Pakistan’s global maritime position.” By seamlessly absorbing these new vessel volumes alongside daily trade demands, Hutchison Ports Pakistan continues to reinforce its role as a vital, high-performance gateway in the regional maritime network.

Soneri Bank Strengthens Commitment to Education Through Partnership with The Citizens Foundation (TCF)
Pakistan

Soneri Bank Strengthens Commitment to Education Through Partnership with The Citizens Foundation (TCF)

Karachi, PakistanReinforcing its commitment towards sustainable social development and community empowerment, Soneri Bank has partnered with The Citizens Foundation (TCF) to adopt its Chinoy Campus for one year, further strengthening its role in advancing quality education initiatives across Pakistan. As part of the partnership, a MoU signing and plaque installation ceremony was conducted on 21st May 2026 to commemorate Soneri Bank’s association with TCF and the shared commitment of both organizations towards creating meaningful and lasting impact through education. The MoU was signed by Muhammad Merajuddin Ahmed, Head of HR, Legal & General Services at Soneri Bank, and Barrister Zara Shaheen Awan, General Body Member and Volunteer with the Supporters of The Citizens Foundation (STCF). This collaboration aligns with Soneri Bank’s broader Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) vision of fostering inclusive growth and supporting initiatives that create long-term value for underserved communities. Through its partnership with TCF, one of Pakistan’s leading education-focused non-profit organizations operating one of the country’s largest networks of low-cost schools, Soneri Bank aims to contribute towards expanding access to quality education for underprivileged children and creating opportunities that enable sustainable community development. Since its inception, TCF has remained committed to providing quality education to deserving students across Pakistan, empowering communities and helping shape brighter futures for generations to come. Soneri Bank, with a nationwide network of 675+ branches across 270+ cities in Pakistan, remains committed to playing an active role in advancing socioeconomic progress through impactful and purpose-driven initiatives. Beyond financial services, the Bank continues to invest in programs that contribute to the development and wellbeing of communities nationwide. Speaking on the occasion, Muhammad Merajuddin Ahmed, Head of HR, Legal & General Services at Soneri Bank, said:“At Soneri Bank, we strongly believe that education serves as a catalyst for long-term social and economic progress. Our partnership with The Citizens Foundation reflects our commitment to investing in initiatives that create meaningful and sustainable impact within communities. We are pleased to support TCF Chinoy Campus and look forward to engaging with students through various initiatives beyond this collaboration, including financial literacy programs, student engagement activities, and learning opportunities designed to empower and inspire the next generation.”

Over 2.1M Skilled Workers to Be Sent Abroad This Year Compared to 9 Lac Last Year, Chairman PM Youth Programme
Pakistan

Over 2.1M Skilled Workers to Be Sent Abroad This Year Compared to 9 Lac Last Year, Chairman PM Youth Programme

KARACHI: Chairman Prime Minister’s Youth Programme Rana Mashood has said that a special meeting will be arranged between a delegation of industrialists from the Korangi Association of Trade and Industry (KATI) and the Prime Minister, enabling them to directly present their proposals for industrial development. He further stated that efforts would also be made to release pending federal funding of Rs250 million for infrastructure improvement. He made these remarks while addressing industrialists at KATI. The event was attended by KATI President Muhammad Ikram Rajput, Deputy Patron-in-Chief Zubair Chhaya, Chairman KITE Limited Zahid Saeed, Senior Vice President Zahid Hamid, Vice President Muhammad Talha Ali, CEO KITE Ltd Saleem-uz-Zaman, Former Presidents and Chairmen Junaid Naqi and Masood Naqi, UBG President Zubair Tufail, Sindh Youth Programme Coordinator Dr Fahad Shafiq, Pakistan Muslim League-N Business Forum President Ishtiaq Baig, and other senior officials. Rana Mashood said that more than 900,000 skilled workers were sent abroad for employment last year, while the target for the current year has been set at 2.1 million. He added that agreements are being finalized with countries including Australia, New Zealand, Japan, the United States, and Middle Eastern states to facilitate overseas employment. He said young people will be provided modern professional training including soft skills, social ethics, and vocational competencies. He noted that in the next three years, Japan alone will require over 700,000 skilled workers, while Saudi Arabia and Gulf countries will need more than 100,000 healthcare professionals and nurses. He further stated that a Digital Youth Portal has been launched, registering over 800,000 young people, exceeding its operational capacity. The portal includes more than 4,000 organizations and has already facilitated over 100,000 job opportunities. Rana Mashood announced that an internship programme is also being launched under which educated youth will be placed in industries for six months. During this period, the government will cover all expenses, and successful candidates may be offered permanent employment within the same organizations. He added that beneficiaries of the Prime Minister’s laptop scheme have successfully utilized e-commerce platforms to generate self-employment opportunities and are now productively engaged in the economy. Earlier, KATI President Muhammad Ikram Rajput said that initiatives under the Prime Minister’s Youth Programme related to education, skill development, digital training, business support, easy loan schemes, and employment opportunities are laying the foundation for Pakistan’s bright future. He emphasized that Pakistan’s large youth population is its most valuable asset, and with access to quality education, technical training, modern skills, and employment opportunities, they can become key drivers of economic growth and prosperity. He added that KATI has always played a positive role in promoting industry, trade, employment, and human resource development, and believes that strong linkage between industry and youth is essential to align graduates with market needs. Deputy Patron-in-Chief Zubair Chhaya said that Pakistan’s global standing has improved after May 2025 and that the country has emerged as a peaceful mediator in recent international tensions. He warned, however, that Pakistan risks missing a critical opportunity to strengthen its economy. He noted that the Korangi Industrial Area contributes around 10 percent of Pakistan’s total exports and that this share could be increased with improved policies. He stressed that youth make up around 60 percent of Pakistan’s population, yet adequate employment opportunities remain limited. He urged the government to urgently pursue industrialization policies, warning that Pakistan risks shifting from an industrial to a trading-based economy, which he termed concerning. He added that both the public and private sectors must work together to create opportunities for youth. Chairman KITE Limited Zahid Saeed highlighted Pakistan’s strategic geographic position, ports, and airports as key advantages. He said Karachi’s exports stand at around $16 billion and remittances from overseas Pakistanis remain a lifeline for the economy. He added that vocational training for youth could increase remittances by $4 billion annually, potentially reaching $84 billion over the next decade. He also pointed out that a promised federal grant of Rs250 million to KITE Limited has yet to be released, although the Sindh government has provided Rs2 billion for development projects in the industrial area. He said federal funding would significantly improve Karachi’s infrastructure and increase government revenue. Senior Vice President KATI Zahid Hamid and Pakistan Muslim League-N Business Forum President Ishtiaq Baig also addressed the gathering.

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