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Pakistan Cement Dispatches December 2025 Show Resilient Growth Despite Export Decline
Pakistan

Pakistan Cement Dispatches December 2025 Show Resilient Growth Despite Export Decline

Pakistan cement dispatches December 2025 recorded a modest but encouraging growth of 1.47%, signaling improving domestic market conditions even as exports continued to face pressure. According to the All Pakistan Cement Manufacturers Association (APCMA), total cement dispatches during the month reached 4.347 million tons, compared to 4.284 million tons in December 2024. The latest figures underline a growing reliance on local consumption as infrastructure activity and construction demand gradually recover across the country. Pakistan Cement Dispatches December 2025 Driven by Domestic Demand A key highlight of Pakistan cement dispatches December 2025 was the strong rebound in domestic sales. Local cement dispatches increased by 6.42%, reaching 3.725 million tons, up from 3.5 million tons in the same month last year. This rise reflects improving market sentiment supported by ongoing public-sector development projects, private construction activity, and relative stability in cement prices. The domestic market has effectively cushioned the industry against falling overseas shipments. In contrast, export dispatches fell sharply by 20.66%, declining to 621,685 tons from 783,550 tons a year earlier. The downturn in exports continues to weigh on overall industry performance amid weak global demand, high freight costs, and regional competition. Read More: https://theboardroompk.com/pakistan-launches-advanced-speed-breeding-facilities-to-boost-crop-security/ North vs South: Regional Performance in Pakistan Cement Dispatches December 2025 North-Based Mills Outperform North-based cement manufacturers emerged as the primary growth drivers in Pakistan cement dispatches December 2025. Total dispatches from the northern region rose by 5.56% to 3.153 million tons, compared to 2.987 million tons in December 2024. Domestic sales played a crucial role, with North-based mills supplying 3.153 million tons locally, reflecting a significant 9.75% increase from 2.873 million tons last year. Notably, no cement exports were recorded from the northern region during the month. South-Based Mills Face Decline South-based mills, however, reported weaker performance. Total dispatches declined by 7.94%, falling to 1.19 million tons from 1.29 million tons in December 2024. Domestic dispatches from the southern region dropped by 8.81% to 572,263 tons, down from 627,519 tons. Exports from the South also decreased by 7.14%, reaching 621,685 tons compared to 669,461 tons a year earlier. Despite the decline, the southern region remained the sole contributor to cement exports in December. First Half FY2025-26 Performance Strengthens Industry Outlook Beyond Pakistan cement dispatches December 2025, the broader trend during July–December FY2025-26 shows a much stronger performance. Total cement dispatches increased by 9.67%, reaching 25.783 million tons, compared to 23.510 million tons in the corresponding period last fiscal year. Domestic dispatches surged by 13.11% to 21.152 million tons, highlighting sustained local demand. Meanwhile, exports slipped by 3.73% to 4.631 million tons, reinforcing the industry’s increasing dependence on the domestic market. Regional Breakdown for July–December FY2025-26 North-based mills continued to dominate during the first half of the fiscal year. Domestic dispatches from the North rose by 14.67% to 17.915 million tons, while exports declined by 18.53% to 808,506 tons. Overall, total dispatches from the region increased by 12.68% to 18.723 million tons. South-based mills also posted moderate growth. Domestic dispatches increased by 5.22% to 3.237 million tons, while exports remained largely flat at 3.822 million tons. As a result, total dispatches from the southern region rose by 2.39% to 7.059 million tons. Outlook for Pakistan Cement Industry The data from Pakistan cement dispatches December 2025 confirms a clear shift toward domestic market strength. While export challenges persist, rising local consumption offers stability and growth potential for cement manufacturers in the coming quarters. Industry analysts expect domestic demand to remain supportive, particularly if infrastructure spending and housing activity continue to improve in 2026.

Pakistan Sentences 8 Journalists to Life imprisonment Over Pro-Imran Khan Online Posts
Pakistan

Pakistan Sentences 8 Journalists to Life imprisonment Over Pro-Imran Khan Online Posts

In a sharp escalation of the crackdown on dissent, a Pakistani anti-terrorism court in Lahore sentenced eight prominent journalists, analysts, and former military officers to life imprisonment on January 2, 2026. The convictions, handed down in absentia, stem from terrorism charges tied to their online content supporting jailed ex-Prime Minister Imran Khan amid the violent unrest that erupted after his brief arrest in May 2023. The ruling includes additional fines and further jail time if unpaid, with sentences subject to confirmation by the Islamabad High Court. Read More: https://theboardroompk.com/imran-khan-and-bushra-bibi-sentenced-to-17-years-in-toshakhana-case/ Convictions Linked to May 9, 2023 Protests The charges relate to social media posts and commentary that authorities claim promoted “fear and unrest,” classified as terrorism under Pakistani law. The May 9 protests saw Khan’s supporters attack military installations following his short detention in a graft case, sparking a nationwide military-backed crackdown. Among the convicted are former army officers-turned-YouTubers Adil Raja and Syed Akbar Hussain, journalists Wajahat Saeed Khan (based in New York), Sabir Shakir, and Shaheen Sehbai, commentator Haider Raza Mehdi, and analyst Moeed Pirzada. Most fled Pakistan years ago and did not appear in court. Wajahat Saeed Khan denounced the verdict as “political theater” without due process. The Committee to Protect Journalists (CPJ) condemned the move as intimidation against critical media.

Pakistan Unveils Sultan Super Basmati: World's Longest Grain in National Basmati Spectrum
Pakistan

Pakistan Unveils Sultan Super Basmati: World’s Longest Grain in National Basmati Spectrum

Pakistani agricultural scientists have achieved a significant milestone in rice breeding with the development of Sultan Super Basmati, a new variety boasting an unprecedented raw grain length of 9.66mm—the longest in Pakistan’s rice history. Announced on January 3, 2026, by the Rice Research Institute (RRI) in Kala Shah Kaku, the variety also elongates to up to 20mm when cooked, combining superior aroma, excellent cooking quality, and high yield potential. This innovation builds on Pakistan’s renowned Basmati legacy and promises to strengthen the country’s position in global premium rice markets. Record-Breaking Grain Length and Superior Quality Dr. Usman Saleem, Senior Scientist at RRI, highlighted that Sultan Super Basmati surpasses previous records, including the 9.5mm of Sona Super Basmati (developed in 2023) and the 8.26mm of Kainat Basmati. The grains cook evenly with outstanding elongation, retaining the characteristic strong Basmati fragrance. Though slightly late-sown, it matures in line with common Basmati types, making it farmer-friendly. Read More: https://theboardroompk.com/pakistan-fertilizer-sector-urea-sales-set-a-historic-record/ Boost for Yields, Exports, and Farmer Prosperity With a yield potential of up to 77 maunds per acre—far exceeding the 45-maund average of existing varieties—the new rice addresses productivity challenges while maintaining export-grade quality. Taufiq Ahmad Khan, former senior vice chairman of the Rice Exporters Association of Pakistan (REAP), emphasized the global demand for extra-long grains, urging rapid farmer adoption to build exportable surplus. The RRI, with a century-long history, continues breeding efforts on three more advanced Basmati lines.

Iran's Foreign Trade Tops $85 Billion in First Nine Months Despite Value Decline
World

Iran’s Foreign Trade Tops $85 Billion in First Nine Months Despite Value Decline

Iran’s total foreign trade reached $85.394 billion during the first nine months of the Iranian calendar year 1404 (March 21–December 22, 2025), according to data released by the Islamic Republic of Iran Customs Administration (IRICA). While the value marked a 10.92% decrease compared to the same period last year, trade volume rose by 1.36% to 148.226 million tons. The figures reflect ongoing economic resilience amid persistent international pressures, with exports and imports showing divergent trends in volume and value Read More: https://theboardroompk.com/trump-netanyahu-to-discuss-gaza-ceasefire-progress-next-phase/ Export Performance Holds Steady in Volume Exports totaled 118.901 million tons valued at $41.243 billion, registering a modest 1% increase in weight but a 5.78% drop in value year-on-year. The higher volume suggests sustained demand for Iranian goods abroad, particularly in key categories like petrochemicals, minerals, and agricultural products, despite lower average prices possibly influenced by global market dynamics and sanctions-related constraints. Iran continues to prioritize export diversification to neighboring countries and major partners in Asia.Imports Decline Sharply in Value Amid Strategic Controls Imports amounted to 29.325 million tons worth $44.151 billion, with a 2.75% rise in volume offset by a significant 15.23% decrease in value. This reduction in import costs likely stems from tightened foreign exchange management, focus on essential goods, and efforts to curb non-priority purchases. The overall trade balance remained sli

Port Qasim to Construct Two Modern Mooring Boats
Pakistan

Port Qasim to Construct Two Modern Mooring Boats

The Port Qasim Authority (PQA) is pleased to announce a long-awaited milestone with the signing of a Supply/Construction Contract for two (02) Mooring Boats with Karachi Shipyard & Engineering Works on 01 January 2026. This achievement is not only a testament to PQA’s continued efforts toward modernizing port infrastructure, but also a strong reflection of its commitment to excellence, ensuring that all foreign-going vessels are safely moored and un-moored at PQA Harbour. The contract further demonstrates PQA’s active pursuit of the Government’s directive to promote reliance on the indigenous shipbuilding industry. Read More: https://theboardroompk.com/irans-foreign-trade-tops-85-billion-in-first-nine-months-despite-value-decline/ This project represents the dedication and hard work of the PQA team and underscores the Authority’s sustained investment in the future of Pakistan’s maritime industry and national economy. As PQA continues to expand through the development of new berths and the deepening of existing channels, these mooring boats will form an essential component of port operations. They will enable PQA to effectively manage the growing volume of maritime traffic while maintaining the highest standards of safety and operational efficiency. The Port Qasim Authority (PQA) is pleased to announce a long-awaited milestone with the signing of a Supply/Construction Contract for two (02) Mooring Boats with Karachi Shipyard & Engineering Works on 01 January 2026. This achievement is not only a testament to PQA’s continued efforts toward modernizing port infrastructure, but also a strong reflection of its commitment to excellence, ensuring that all foreign-going vessels are safely moored and un-moored at PQA Harbour. The contract further demonstrates PQA’s active pursuit of the Government’s directive to promote reliance on the indigenous shipbuilding industry.This project represents the dedication and hard work of the PQA team and underscores the Authority’s sustained investment in the future of Pakistan’s maritime industry and national economy. As PQA continues to expand through the development of new berths and the deepening of existing channels, these mooring boats will form an essential component of port operations. They will enable PQA to effectively manage the growing volume of maritime traffic while maintaining the highest standards of safety and operational efficiency.

Tesla Sales Plunge Down 66-71% in France and Sweden
World

Tesla Sales Plunge Down 66-71% in France and Sweden

Tesla faced stark contrasts in European markets at the close of 2025, with registrations plummeting sharply in France and Sweden while surging to a record high in Norway during December. According to official data released on January 2, 2026, Tesla registrations fell 66% year-on-year in France to 1,942 vehicles and 71% in Sweden to 821 vehicles. This contributed to full-year declines of 37% in France and 70% in Sweden. In contrast, Norway saw an 89% jump to 5,679 vehicles, helping Tesla achieve a new annual sales record with over 19% market share in the EV-dominant country. Broader European trends showed Tesla’s market share dropping to 1.7% (up to November) from 2.4% in 2024, even as overall battery-electric vehicle sales rose to 18.8% of the market. Declines Amid Rising Competition The sharp drops in France and Sweden reflect ongoing challenges for Tesla, including intensified competition from Chinese EV makers, an aging product lineup, and consumer backlash linked to CEO Elon Musk’s political statements. Despite the introduction of more affordable Model Y and Model 3 variants, demand has not rebounded significantly in these key markets. Norway’s EV Leadership Boosts Tesla Norway, where nearly 96% of new car sales were electric in 2025, continues to favor Tesla strongly, underscoring the benefits of supportive policies and infrastructure in the world’s most advanced EV market.

Speed Breeding, NARC Islamabad, Smart Glasshouse
Pakistan

Pakistan Launches Advanced Speed Breeding Facilities to Boost Crop Security

Federal Minister for National Food Security and Research Rana Tanveer Hussain inaugurated groundbreaking Speed Breeding facilities for wheat and pulses, along with Pakistan’s first Intelligent IoT-Based Smart Glasshouse at the National Agricultural Research Centre (NARC) in Islamabad. This milestone event, hailed as the beginning of a new era in agricultural research, aims to revolutionize crop improvement through accelerated breeding techniques and smart technologies. The facilities, funded under PSDP projects, will significantly shorten breeding cycles, enhance genetic gains, and bolster food and nutritional security amid climate challenges. Chairman PARC Dr. Syed Murtaza Hassan Andrabi played a pivotal role in conceptualizing and operationalizing these initiatives. Speed Breeding Revolution for Key Crops The wheat facility at the Crop Sciences Institute enables 5-6 generations per year by using extended photoperiods (up to 22 hours), LED lighting, and precise environmental controls—reducing the typical 14-year varietal development timeline by half. Over 3,000 new wheat lines are already in yield trials, while the pulses facility (first of its kind) targets chickpea, lentil, mung bean, and mash, achieving 4-6 generations annually to address low productivity and climate vulnerabilities. Read More: https://theboardroompk.com/pakistan-railways-reclaims-3509-sq-ft-in-rawalpindi-anti-encroachment-drive/ Smart Glasshouse: Precision Meets Innovation Spanning 2,640 square feet at NIGAB, the IoT-based smart glasshouse features fully automated sensors, AI-driven controls, and real-time data analytics for genome-assisted breeding, stress biology, and phenotyping. It supports heat stress screening, generation advancement, aquaponics, and gene-edited plant acclimatization—positioning NARC as a hub for climate-smart, resource-efficient agriculture

Pakistan Railways Reclaims 3,509 Sq Ft in Rawalpindi Anti-Encroachment Drive
Pakistan

Pakistan Railways Reclaims 3,509 Sq Ft in Rawalpindi Anti-Encroachment Drive

Pakistan Railways has successfully reclaimed 3,509 square feet of valuable railway land in its Rawalpindi Division through a targeted anti-encroachment drive launched at the start of the new year. The operation, valued at several million rupees, involved the demolition of 11 illegally constructed commercial shops — some fully and others partially — to clear illegal occupations by land grabbers. Conducted on the explicit directives of Federal Minister for Railways Muhammad Hanif Abbasi, the effort marks the beginning of an intensified nationwide campaign to safeguard national assets. The joint operation was executed in collaboration with the Railway Police and supervised by senior officials, including the Divisional Engineer-I, Deputy Director (Land), and Superintendent of Railway Police, ensuring full transparency Read More: https://theboardroompk.com/pakistan-railways-freight-sector-generates-rs17-billion-in-first-half-of-fy2025-26/ Operation Details and Humanitarian Balance While the focus was on removing commercial encroachments, certain residential and commercial portions were spared on humanitarian grounds, reflecting a balanced approach. The drive aligns with a renewed push that began on January 1, 2026, to eliminate illegal structures across the railway network and protect vital infrastructure. Commitment to Ongoing Action Pakistan Railways has reaffirmed its zero-tolerance policy toward encroachments, vowing to continue decisive measures nationwide. This latest retrieval underscores the ministry’s priority to recover and preserve land essential for railway development, operations, and future expansion in the Rawalpindi region.

Pakistan regards Taiwan as inalienable part of China: FO
Pakistan

Pakistan regards Taiwan as inalienable part of China: FO

Pakistan’s Foreign Office firmly reiterated its unwavering commitment to the One-China principle, describing Taiwan as an inalienable part of China. The statement came in response to media queries regarding ongoing developments in the Taiwan Strait. Foreign Office Spokesperson Tahir Andrabi emphasized the deep-rooted bilateral ties, calling Pakistan and China “iron-clad friends and all-weather strategic cooperative partners.” He highlighted Pakistan’s consistent support for Beijing on all core national interests, including the Taiwan issue. This reaffirmation underscores Islamabad’s long-standing diplomatic alignment with Beijing, especially as the two nations prepare to mark 75 years of diplomatic relations in 2026 and ahead of high-level engagements, including the upcoming China-Pakistan Foreign Ministers’ Strategic Dialogue. Read More: https://theboardroompk.com/byd-overtakes-tesla-in-global-ev-sales-a-turning-point-for-the-electric-vehicle-industry/ Reaffirmation of Core Principles Andrabi stated clearly: “We will continue to adhere to the One-China principle and regard Taiwan as an inalienable part of China.” This position has been a consistent feature of Pakistan’s foreign policy for decades, rooted in strong political mutual trust and shared strategic interests. The spokesperson’s remarks reinforce Pakistan’s opposition to any external interference in what it views as China’s internal affairs, aligning fully with Beijing’s stance on sovereignty and territorial integrity. Strategic Partnership in Focus The statement arrives at a time of heightened regional tensions in the Taiwan Strait, where military drills and geopolitical posturing continue. By publicly restating its support, Pakistan signals its readiness to stand with China on sensitive matters. The declaration also reflects the broader momentum in bilateral relations, including deepened cooperation under frameworks like the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC), as both countries navigate global challenges together.

BYD Overtakes Tesla in Global EV Sales: A Turning Point for the Electric Vehicle Industry
World

BYD Overtakes Tesla in Global EV Sales: A Turning Point for the Electric Vehicle Industry

BYD overtakes Tesla in global EV sales, marking one of the most significant shifts in the electric vehicle (EV) market in recent years. China’s leading electric automaker has officially surpassed Elon Musk-led Tesla in worldwide electric vehicle deliveries, reshaping competitive dynamics across the global automotive industry. According to 2025 sales data, BYD delivered more than 2.25 million electric vehicles globally, while Tesla reported approximately 1.6 million battery-electric vehicle deliveries over the same period. This milestone positions BYD as the world’s largest EV manufacturer by volume and underscores the growing influence of Chinese automakers in the global transition toward electric mobility. BYD Overtakes Tesla in Global EV Sales: Key Numbers Explained Rather than viewing these figures in isolation, they reflect a broader structural shift within the EV industry. In simple terms, BYD’s sales leadership can be explained by three core factors. First, BYD’s wide-ranging product portfolio caters to both premium and mass-market consumers. Second, its cost-efficient production model enables competitive pricing. Third, its rapid international expansion has unlocked growth in emerging and developed markets alike. In comparison, Tesla continues to dominate the premium EV segment but faces mounting pressure in price-sensitive regions, particularly across Asia, Latin America, and parts of Europe. Why BYD Overtakes Tesla in Global EV Sales Market analysts suggest several interconnected reasons behind why BYD overtakes Tesla in global EV sales: Brand strategy and pricing pressure: Tesla’s brand, while still strong, has faced reputational headwinds in certain markets due to Elon Musk’s growing involvement in political and public policy debates. This has, in some regions, influenced consumer sentiment and purchasing behavior. Rising Chinese competition: Chinese EV manufacturers, led by BYD, have intensified competition through affordable pricing, localized manufacturing, and rapid model innovation. BYD’s ability to undercut competitors while maintaining quality has proven particularly effective. Vertical integration advantage: BYD’s business model sets it apart. Unlike most automakers, BYD manufactures its own batteries, power electronics, and key components. This vertical integration lowers costs, stabilizes supply chains, and enhances production scalability advantages that have become critical in a volatile global economy. BYD’s Business Model: A Competitive Edge in the EV Market BYD is not just an electric car manufacturer. The company is also a global leader in battery technology, electric buses, commercial EVs, and clean energy solutions. Its proprietary Blade Battery technology, known for improved safety and efficiency, has strengthened consumer trust and industry credibility. Additionally, BYD’s manufacturing scale allows faster market entry and quicker adaptation to regulatory and consumer demands across regions. This flexibility has enabled BYD to expand aggressively into Europe, Southeast Asia, the Middle East, and Latin America. What BYD Overtakes Tesla in Global EV Sales Means for the Industry The fact that BYD overtakes Tesla in global EV sales signals a broader shift in the electric vehicle landscape. Industry experts believe the global EV market is entering a new phase defined by: • Increased price competition• Faster technological innovation• Greater emphasis on affordability and scale• Strategic realignments among legacy automakers As Chinese EV makers continue to lead in production efficiency and cost control, global automakers may be forced to rethink pricing strategies, supply chain structures, and market positioning. Future Outlook: Intensifying Global EV Competition Looking ahead, competition between BYD, Tesla, and other global automakers is expected to intensify. Consumers are likely to benefit from wider model choices, improved battery technology, and more competitive pricing. While Tesla remains a technological and brand leader, BYD’s rise highlights a new reality: dominance in the EV market will increasingly be determined by scale, affordability, and operational efficiency not just innovation alone.

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