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BYD Sponsors Mystapaki’s Cinematic Exploration of Cholistan’s Hidden Stories
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BYD Sponsors Mystapaki’s Cinematic Exploration of Cholistan’s Hidden Stories

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Karachi, May 25, 2026: There are places in Pakistan where the landscape feels endless, where survival depends on resilience, and where stories go back in time just as the sands that make up the place. In these parts of the country, the desert does not simply shape the land, it shapes the people who learn to live within it. The second episode of The Great Pakistan Adventure – Desert Atlas, powered by BYD, journeys deep into the heart of Cholistan, uncovering a side of Pakistan rarely explored with such depth and emotion. Towering dunes. Endless golden horizons. Roads that disappear beneath shifting sand. Bastions of Derawar standing tall and visible across miles. Music echoing across the silence of the desert. It is about endurance. It is about revival. It is about communities whose identity has been shaped by one of Pakistan’s harshest terrains. More than just a travel experience, Desert Atlas unfolds like a cinematic portrait of Cholistan’s history, people, and spirit. Bilal Hassan, more popularly known as Mystapaki, is a content creator, writer, and photojournalist known for documenting travel, culture, and everyday life across Pakistan. His storytelling makes him a natural fit for this journey, as he uncovers the layers of life that exist within the deserts of Cholistan and Bahawalpur, communities and histories often overlooked beneath the vastness and harshness of the landscape. Through Bilal’s narrative, the desert transforms from an unforgiving terrain into a living archive of resilience, folklore, music, and deeply human stories, revealing a side of the region that few truly experience. One of the episode’s most powerful moments highlights the revival of the black buck, once nearly extinct in Pakistan. Set against the vast landscapes of Lal Suhanra National Park, one of South Asia’s largest national parks, the story becomes a reminder that even the harshest landscapes can still protect life when communities refuse to give up on it. “The Black Buck is a community animal that lives with its herd, marking its territory with its hoofs”, said Yaqoob Anwar, Assistant Director Wildlife, Chinkara and Black Buck Breeding Centre, Lalsuhanra, Bahawalpur. “Each herd has an alpha male, magnificent and proud, standing out with his posture. However, when another alpha enters their territory, there are fights and also injuries, all of which need to be documented and cared for to ensure healthy growth of these animals,” he added further. And there is a lot more that the episode explores, most notably the iconic Cholistan Desert Rally, which has transformed the desert into one of Pakistan’s most recognised off-road destinations. Along the journey, Bilal is joined by professional rally driver Muhammad Marwat, whose years of experience navigating the annual rally have given him an instinctive understanding of the terrain. With remarkable precision and ease, Marwat maneuvers the BYD Shark 6 across the shifting sands, showcasing the vehicle’s capability, control, and adaptability in one of Pakistan’s most demanding off-road environments. Throughout the episode, the BYD Shark 6 is tested across Cholistan’s unforgiving terrain, with its dedicated sand mode allowing the vehicle to maintain traction and stability across constantly shifting dunes and soft desert surfaces. As day turns to night, its powerful headlights cut through the darkness of Cholistan’s vast and isolated landscapes, while the pickup itself becomes an extension of the journey, enabling access to places far beyond conventional routes. Among the episode’s most emotional stories is that of Maha Hussain, a young biker from Bahawalpur whose journey reflects resilience against social expectations and environmental hardship. Supported by her father’s encouragement, Maha pursued her passion despite the challenges around her. In a deeply personal moment, she helps Mystapaki fulfill his father’s wish, which feels even more special through the narrative that this is the first thing he has ever asked from his son, Bilal. Locating the prestigious school in Bahawalpur where he had studied as a gold medalist. Can he get in and fulfill his father’s wish? That’s for you to find out. What makes Desert Atlas truly stand apart is the way it captures the soul of Cholistan through its people, music, and untold stories. The desert may be harsh, but its music carries warmth through every note. Featuring original sounds recorded within the local community and produced by Zohaib Kazi of Coke Studio fame, the soundtrack echoes stories of longing, love, and survival, becoming an emotional extension of the land and the people who call it home. In a time where travel content is often reduced to fleeting reels and clickbait, The Great Pakistan Adventure offers something far more lasting – stories that stay with audiences long after the journey ends. Through breathtaking landscapes, deeply human experiences, and untold communities, the series invites viewers to rediscover the beauty, diversity, and spirit of Pakistan, leaving them with a renewed sense of connection to the country and its people. The full episode of The Great Pakistan Adventure: Desert Atlas is now available to watch on YouTube at BYD Pakistan’s official channel.

AI Chip Boom and Heavy Taxes Slam Pakistan’s Mobile Manufacturing
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AI Chip Boom and Heavy Taxes Slam Pakistan’s Mobile Manufacturing

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Pakistan’s once-thriving mobile phone manufacturing sector is facing serious challenges, with production dropping sharply amid global and domestic pressures. A surge in worldwide demand for artificial intelligence infrastructure has strained semiconductor supplies, as resources are increasingly diverted toward data centres. This global shift has pushed memory chip prices up significantly, nearly doubling in some cases, which has raised production costs for mobile phones across many countries, including Pakistan. As a result, local manufacturers are now struggling with higher input expenses and tighter margins. At the same time, domestic policy measures have further weakened demand. The government’s decision to impose an 18% sales tax on mobile phones last year significantly increased retail prices, reducing consumer purchasing power. This has led to slower sales and growing unsold inventory among manufacturers and retailers, putting additional financial pressure on the sector. According to Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) data, local mobile production fell by 35% in April 2026, dropping to 1.81 million units from 2.79 million units in March. Although local manufacturing still met 83% of domestic demand in April, this was down from 89% the previous month. Despite the current slowdown, Pakistan’s mobile manufacturing industry has grown substantially since 2020. The Mobile Device Manufacturing Policy enabled a major shift from full imports to local assembly, and today more than 90% of mobile phones sold in the country are produced locally. Around 37 companies now hold manufacturing licences, with 10 to 12 firms producing smartphones while others focus on feature phones. The sector also provides direct employment to approximately 50,000 workers, making it an important contributor to industrial activity and job creation. Major global brands such as Samsung, Xiaomi, Tecno, Oppo, Vivo, and Infinix have established operations in Pakistan, further strengthening the industry’s ecosystem. However, manufacturers continue to highlight challenges that limit deeper localisation and export growth. Issues such as inconsistent policy direction, tariff distortions, and reverse cascading—where imported raw materials face higher duties than some finished products—are discouraging investment in local component manufacturing. Industry stakeholders are calling for stable tax policies, removal of structural inefficiencies, and stronger export incentives, including an 8% export allowance in the upcoming policy framework. Looking ahead, sustaining and strengthening the sector could bring significant long-term economic benefits. Estimates suggest that maintaining local mobile production could save over $2.3 billion in foreign exchange between 2026 and 2031, while also reducing reliance on imports. Pakistan is encouraged to learn from countries like India, which successfully implemented production-linked incentives and now exports mobile phones worth over $25 billion annually. Stakeholders emphasize that without timely policy support, the progress achieved over the past few years could be at risk, making urgent intervention essential to preserve this strategically important industry.

PTA Extends SIM Disown Period to 365 Days
Pakistan

PTA Extends SIM Disown Period to 365 Days

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Pakistan Telecommunication Authority has introduced a major policy change aimed at discouraging the frequent transfer and disposal of SIM cards across Pakistan. Under the new rules, the PTA has extended the SIM disown period from 60 days to 365 days. This means an active SIM card registered under a citizen’s name cannot be removed or transferred for one full year. According to reports, the measure is part of broader efforts to strengthen digital security and prevent the misuse of mobile connections. SIM Ownership Cannot Be Changed for One Year The new PTA policy makes it mandatory for users to retain ownership of a registered Subscriber Identity Module for at least 365 days before any disowning request can be processed. Officials believe the move will help reduce illegal SIM transfers and improve accountability in mobile communication systems. The authority has once again urged citizens to remain careful while providing biometric verification for the issuance of SIM cards. PTA warned users not to allow unauthorized individuals to use their biometric information for mobile registrations. PTA Warns Users About Expired CNICs Earlier, the PTA advised mobile phone users to ensure their National Database and Registration Authority records remain valid and updated to avoid service interruptions. The authority stated that SIM cards registered against expired, cancelled, or deceased Computerised National Identity Cards are being blocked as part of nationwide digital security measures. PTA urged citizens to renew their CNICs through NADRA to prevent the suspension of mobile services. Authorities Stress Importance of Updated Records In its statement, PTA highlighted the importance of uninterrupted mobile connectivity and secure communication services. The authority advised users to keep their personal information updated with mobile operators and ensure timely verification of identity documents through NADRA. Officials said these steps are necessary to improve national digital security and prevent misuse of mobile networks for illegal activities. Digital Security Measures Continue Pakistan has introduced several regulatory measures in recent years to strengthen oversight of mobile communication services and reduce cyber related risks. The latest decision regarding SIM ownership is expected to impact millions of mobile users across the country. Authorities believe the policy will improve transparency in SIM registration and discourage fraudulent practices involving biometric verification and unauthorized transfers. Citizens have been advised to follow PTA and NADRA guidelines carefully to avoid disruptions in mobile services or complications related to SIM ownership.

NADRA Introduces New CNIC Rules for First Time Applicants
Pakistan

NADRA Introduces New CNIC Rules for First Time Applicants

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National Database and Registration Authority has introduced new rules for the issuance of Computerized National Identity Cards to simplify the process for first time applicants across Pakistan. Under the revised regulations, NADRA has made signatures optional for individuals applying for a CNIC for the first time. Officials said that if an applicant does not provide a signature, the letters “NA” will appear in the signature section of the identity card. The authority clarified that it will not print thumb impressions or alternative marks in place of signatures on CNICs. NADRA also confirmed that thumbprint images will not be used due to concerns related to forgery and misuse. NADRA Launches Awareness Campaign A spokesperson for NADRA said the authority has started an awareness campaign targeting illiterate citizens and people who cannot sign documents. The authority has also instructed applicants using the mobile application not to upload thumbprint images during the submission process. Officials stated that any future addition or modification of a signature on a CNIC will require a formal correction request through the proper procedure. NADRA said the new policy aims to improve transparency while making the identity card application process easier and more secure for citizens. Citizens Advised to Renew CNICs Before June 30 Earlier, NADRA warned citizens about possible increases in service charges and penalties linked to identity card and child registration services after the federal budget for 2026 and 2027. The authority urged people to renew expired CNICs and complete registration of children’s B Forms before June 30, 2026. Officials indicated that revised fees could take effect in the new fiscal year. In its public advisory, NADRA encouraged parents to register children who still do not possess a B Form. It also advised eligible citizens to convert existing B Forms into Smart National Identity Cards where applicable. Officials warned that failure to complete documentation within the given deadline could lead to penalties or additional charges. New Firearms Licence Validity System Introduced Separately, NADRA recently introduced a new system regarding the validity of federal firearms licences following directives from the Ministry of Interior Pakistan. According to an official awareness video released by the authority, the previous system caused all firearms licences to expire every year on December 31. Officials said this created administrative challenges and inconvenience for licence holders. The new measures are aimed at improving efficiency and making public services more convenient for citizens. Efforts to Improve Public Services NADRA has introduced several digital reforms in recent years to improve public access to identity and registration services. Officials say the authority continues to focus on reducing procedural difficulties while strengthening security measures against fraud and document misuse. The latest CNIC policy is expected to benefit thousands of first time applicants, especially those unable to provide signatures due to literacy or physical limitations. Authorities have advised citizens to remain updated through official NADRA announcements and complete pending documentation before the end of June to avoid additional costs.

Pakistan, Muslim Nations Condemn Israeli Minister Over Gaza Flotilla Activists
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Pakistan, Muslim Nations Condemn Israeli Minister Over Gaza Flotilla Activists

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Pakistan and seven other Muslim nations have strongly condemned the actions of Israeli National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir against Gaza flotilla activists during their detention in Israel. According to a statement issued by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs Pakistan, the countries described Ben Gvir’s treatment of the activists as “appalling, degrading, and unacceptable.” The joint statement accused the Israeli minister of deliberately humiliating detainees and violating international humanitarian and human rights laws. The statement was jointly issued by the foreign ministers of Pakistan, Egypt, Türkiye, Indonesia, Jordan, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, and the United Arab Emirates. Countries Condemn Public Humiliation of Activists The ministers stated that Ben Gvir’s actions represented a serious attack on human dignity. They stressed that the public humiliation of detainees violated Israel’s obligations under international law. The statement further condemned what it described as extremist acts of incitement and violence by Israeli forces against Palestinians in the Occupied Palestinian Territory. The eight Muslim countries warned that such provocative actions increase hatred and extremism while damaging international efforts aimed at achieving a just and lasting peace in the region. Call for Accountability Against Ben Gvir The joint statement demanded accountability for Ben Gvir’s actions and called for concrete measures to stop repeated provocations and violations. The ministers also urged the international community to ensure protection of human rights and guarantee humane treatment of all detainees. They emphasized the importance of respecting international law in the Occupied Palestinian Territory and preventing further actions that could threaten regional peace and stability. Support for Two State Solution Reaffirmed The countries reiterated support for a peaceful resolution based on the two state solution. They stated that inflammatory actions and violence continue to obstruct diplomatic efforts aimed at ending the conflict. The statement came amid growing international concern over the humanitarian situation in Gaza Strip and increasing tensions between Israel and pro Palestinian activists attempting to deliver aid through flotilla missions. The joint declaration was issued in Islamabad on May 24, 2026.

Oil Prices Hit Two-Week Low as US-Iran Peace Deal Hopes Ease Supply Fears
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Oil Prices Hit Two-Week Low as US-Iran Peace Deal Hopes Ease Supply Fears

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Global oil prices dropped sharply on Monday and touched their lowest level in two weeks after signs emerged that the United States and Iran were moving closer to a possible peace agreement. The development raised hopes that the vital Strait of Hormuz could reopen fully and ease pressure on global energy supplies. United States President Donald Trump said over the weekend that Washington and Tehran had “largely negotiated” a memorandum of understanding aimed at reducing tensions in the Gulf region and restoring oil shipments through the Strait of Hormuz. Brent and WTI Crude Prices Fall Sharply Brent crude futures fell by $4.71, or 4.55%, to settle at $98.83 per barrel by 2234 GMT. Meanwhile, US West Texas Intermediate (WTI) crude declined by $4.57, or 4.73%, to $92.03 per barrel. Both major oil benchmarks earlier touched their lowest levels since May 7 as traders reacted to expectations that tensions in the Gulf could eventually ease. The market decline came despite continued uncertainty surrounding the conflict and disruptions in the Strait of Hormuz, a key shipping route that previously handled nearly one-fifth of global oil and liquefied natural gas exports. Strait of Hormuz Remains Critical Strait of Hormuz remains one of the world’s most strategically important energy corridors. The ongoing blockades and military tensions in the region have severely disrupted oil supplies from the Middle East in recent weeks. Although optimism around diplomacy pushed prices lower, analysts warned that the situation remains fragile. Several oil and gas facilities in the region have suffered damage during the conflict, while shipping routes continue to face restrictions. US Secretary of State Marco Rubio said the Gulf conflict was expected to last “weeks not months” and stressed that Washington would not require ground troops in the region. Trump Signals Progress but Warns Against Rushing Speaking on Saturday, Trump said the US and Iran had made significant progress toward a peace arrangement. However, he later cautioned that negotiations should not be rushed. On Sunday, Trump stated that he had instructed American representatives to take their time before finalising any agreement with Iran, indicating that several major issues still remain unresolved. Diplomatic sources say disagreements continue over security guarantees, sanctions relief, and the future management of shipping activity in the Gulf. Analysts See Temporary Relief for Oil Markets Energy analysts believe the possibility of a peace deal has reduced immediate fears of a prolonged supply crisis. However, they also warned that normal oil flows may not resume quickly. MST Marquee analyst Saul Kavonic said there was now “some light at the end of the tunnel” despite ongoing risks surrounding the negotiations and the Strait of Hormuz situation. According to analysts, it could take several months for damaged infrastructure to be repaired and for oil exports through the Strait to fully recover. Insurance costs for tankers operating in the region also remain elevated, adding further uncertainty to energy markets. Global Markets Closely Watching Gulf Developments The Gulf conflict has remained one of the biggest drivers of global oil prices this year. Countries heavily dependent on Middle Eastern oil supplies continue to monitor the situation closely as higher fuel prices have already increased inflationary pressure worldwide. Any successful agreement between the US and Iran could stabilise energy markets and reduce fears of further supply disruptions. However, traders remain cautious due to the complex political and military challenges still facing the negotiations

Eidul Azha Generated Pakistan’s Half-Trillion-Rupee Informal Economy
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Eidul Azha Generated Pakistan’s Half-Trillion-Rupee Informal Economy

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Karachi’s livestock markets begin buzzing with activity weeks before Eid al-Adha as traders bring cattle from Sindh, goats from Balochistan, and camels from various regions of the country. Beyond its religious significance, the annual qurbani ritual has evolved into one of Pakistan’s largest informal economic events. Every year, millions of Pakistanis participate in qurbani during the three days of Eidul Azha. Estimates suggest nearly 7.4 million animals are sacrificed nationwide, generating economic activity worth between Rs539 billion and Rs752 billion. According to analysis by Ammar H Khan, the base estimate stands at approximately Rs641 billion. This enormous private spending is equivalent to more than half of Pakistan’s annual federal development budget, despite operating entirely without formal government coordination. The system runs through religious obligation, household spending, and traditional market networks. The economic impact becomes visible in data from the State Bank of Pakistan, which shows a sharp increase in currency circulation before Eid as cash transactions surge for animal purchases, transportation, fodder, and related services. The livestock supply chain supports thousands of livelihoods. Farmers spend months raising animals using local fodder before traders transport them to urban cattle markets. Butchers, transporters, hide collectors, and mandi workers also earn significant income during the season. An average cow sells for around Rs110,000, with farmers retaining nearly 55 to 65 percent of the proceeds after expenses. Analysts estimate that roughly Rs420 billion flows into rural households within a single week, creating a major rural-to-urban economic transfer. Karachi alone reportedly spent around Rs185 billion on sacrificial animals in 2025, with more than two million animals traded in the city. Shared qurbani arrangements, where multiple families jointly purchase larger animals, also help middle-class households participate despite rising costs. Beyond commerce, Eidul Azha also functions as a large-scale private food distribution system. Around 532,000 tonnes of meat are distributed during the festival, with nearly one-third traditionally shared with underprivileged families and communities. Experts note that this level of private redistribution often exceeds the scale of many government-led food support programs. The annual event also highlights the size and importance of Pakistan’s informal economy, as many butchers, traders, transporters, and temporary workers earn a substantial portion of their yearly income during the Eid season. Despite its scale, much of this economic activity remains outside official statistics and formal documentation.

Government of Pakistan and Alibaba Sign Strategic MoUs to Accelerate AI Development, Digital Economy, and SME Growth
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Government of Pakistan and Alibaba Sign Strategic MoUs to Accelerate AI Development, Digital Economy, and SME Growth

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Partnerships spanning AI, cloud solutions, healthcare, SME enablement and digital payments aim to accelerate Pakistan’s digital transformation Hangzhou, China, 24 May 2026 – The Government of Pakistan and Alibaba have signed a series of Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) covering artificial intelligence (AI), cloud solutions, digital skills, healthcare technology, e-commerce, SME development, and digital financial services, marking an important milestone in Pakistan’s ongoing digital transformation. The agreements were signed at Alibaba’s headquarters in Hangzhou, China, witnessed by Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and Alibaba Group Chairman Joe Tsai. Pakistani signatories include Ignite National Technology Fund (Ignite), Sky47, and the Small and Medium Enterprises Development Authority (SMEDA). Alibaba signatories include Alibaba Cloud, DAMO Academy, Alibaba.com and Koko Tech. Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif appreciated the pace with which Alibaba has transformed itself into a globally leading digital entity with its notable contributions in E-Commerce, AI, Fintech and human resource development. He noted that together, Alibaba and government of Pakistan can transform the lives of the people of Pakistan by digital inclusion, youth empowerment, modernization of agriculture sector and digitization of financial sector. “Pakistan is home to extraordinary talent and immense digital potential,” said Joe Tsai, Chairman of Alibaba Group. “We believe AI, cloud technologies and embodied intelligence can play a transformative role in improving healthcare, empowering businesses to tap into global markets through digital exports and supporting long-term economic development.” Advancing AI & Cloud Capabilities Ignite and Alibaba Cloud will collaborate to develop secure, localized AI and cloud solutions for Pakistan, including AI foundation models for Urdu and regional languages designed to serve key sectors such as education, healthcare, and agriculture. The partnership will roll out nationwide AI and cloud skill programs targeting 500,000 individuals, including developers, students, and public sector employees, through trainings and certifications. To further nurture Pakistan’s tech ecosystem, the two parties will co-host a joint AI hackathon for young developers focused on smart agriculture, financial inclusion, and Urdu language technologies. Expanding AI-Powered Healthcare DAMO Academy and Sky47 will deploy AI-enabled healthcare solutions in Pakistan, centered on DAMO Academy’s multi-disease screening technology. This system uses non-contrast CT scans to detect lesions often difficult for the human eye to identify, enabling early screening for cancers including pancreatic and liver cancer. Sky47 plans to roll out the technology across cities such as Islamabad, Lahore, and Karachi. Separately, DAMO Academy and Ignite will build embodied intelligence capacity at Pakistani universities through online courses, workshops, and developer community activities. Empowering SMEs and Digital Commerce Alibaba.com and SMEDA will help Pakistani SMEs expand into global markets. The partnership will provide AI-powered digital trade training to 10,000 businesses using Alibaba.com’s enterprise AI agent Accio Work, enhancing their cross-border capabilities. The initiative will also onboard at least 2,000 SMEs onto the platform through a dedicated “Pakistan Pavilion”, a unified digital gateway showcasing the country’s diverse industries and connecting Pakistani sellers with over 50 million global buyers. Services including Trade Assurance and Verified Supplier certification will help build trust and accelerate export growth. Driving Financial Inclusion Koko Tech, a Daraz Group company, has signed a cooperation agreement with Ignite to introduce and scale a Buy Now, Pay Later (BNPL) solution in Pakistan, operating as a NBFC (Non-banking Finance Company). Koko Tech plans to invest US$ 3 million to expand digital payment services nationwide and create local employment. The initiative supports Ignite’s mission to foster technology innovation and advance Pakistan’s digital economy, contributing to broader goals of financial inclusion and innovation-led growth.

inDrive’s Aurora Ventures Targets Pakistan Women Tech Founders With Fresh Startup Funding
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inDrive’s Aurora Ventures Targets Pakistan Women Tech Founders With Fresh Startup Funding

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inDrive has launched Aurora Ventures, a bold new investment program aimed at solving one of Pakistan’s biggest startup challenges: the lack of funding for women tech founders. The announcement has created fresh excitement across Pakistan’s startup ecosystem, especially among female entrepreneurs struggling to secure early-stage investment despite the country’s booming digital economy. The new initiative will invest between $180,000 and $250,000 into women-led startups at the pre-seed and seed stages. The program will initially focus on emerging markets, with Pakistan positioned as a major priority market. inDrive’s Aurora Ventures Plans to Transform Pakistan Startup Funding Pakistan’s startup ecosystem has grown rapidly over the last few years. According to research by Dealroom, the country’s startup ecosystem value has crossed $4 billion since 2020, outperforming several established global tech hubs in terms of growth pace. Yet behind this impressive expansion lies a serious problem. Access to investment capital remains extremely limited, particularly for female founders trying to scale innovative businesses. This is the gap that inDrive’s Aurora Ventures now aims to fill. Speaking about the initiative, Awais Saeed said Pakistan represents a critical test market for the company’s broader investment ambitions. He noted that the country already has exceptional entrepreneurial talent and a fast-growing digital economy, but women-led startups often reach institutional funding far later than they should. According to him, the issue is not capability but lack of access to investors and structured support systems. Why Pakistan Women Tech Founders Are Getting Global Attention Pakistan is increasingly becoming a hotspot for women-led innovation. The country recorded more than 200 submissions for the Aurora Tech Award in 2025 alone, reflecting rising participation from female entrepreneurs across the technology sector. One of the most notable Pakistani success stories linked to the initiative is Faiza Yousuf, who became a finalist in the 2023 edition of the award and gained international recognition through the platform. Aurora Ventures plans to use insights collected from five years of Aurora Tech Award data to identify startups with high growth potential before their market valuations rise significantly. This strategy could allow Pakistani founders to secure capital much earlier in their business journey. inDrive Expands Beyond Ride-Hailing Into Startup Investments The launch of Aurora Ventures also signals a major strategic shift for inDrive. Known globally as a ride-hailing and urban services platform, the company is now actively positioning itself as a long-term ecosystem investor in emerging markets. Instead of only offering transportation services, inDrive plans to support startups with funding, operational guidance, infrastructure access, and strategic mentorship. This broader ecosystem approach could help local startups overcome many of the operational barriers that slow business growth in Pakistan. Industry experts believe this model may become increasingly important as global venture capital investment becomes more selective and difficult to secure for early-stage founders. Pakistan Startup Ecosystem Faces Funding Crisis Despite rapid growth in Pakistan’s tech sector, funding shortages continue to impact startup survival rates. Many promising startups fail to move beyond early development stages due to the absence of institutional investors willing to take risks on emerging founders. Female entrepreneurs face even greater hurdles, often struggling to access investor networks dominated by traditional funding circles. Aurora Ventures enters the market at a time when demand for inclusive startup financing is reaching critical levels. The initiative’s focus on women-led startups could create new momentum for diversity within Pakistan’s technology industry while helping unlock untapped economic potential. Aurora Ventures Could Reshape Pakistan’s Startup Future The 2026 pilot phase of inDrive Aurora Ventures will focus on building its first investment portfolio while strengthening its long-term presence across emerging markets. For Pakistan’s growing community of women entrepreneurs, the program may represent far more than just another funding source. It could become a gateway to international visibility, global mentorship networks, and faster business scaling opportunities. As competition within Pakistan’s startup ecosystem intensifies, initiatives like Aurora Ventures may play a decisive role in determining which founders emerge as the country’s next major tech success stories.

PM Shehbaz Sharif Arrives in Hangzhou for Official Visit to China
Pakistan

PM Shehbaz Sharif Arrives in Hangzhou for Official Visit to China

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ISLAMABAD – Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif arrived in Hangzhou, China on Saturday, marking the beginning of his four-day official visit aimed at strengthening bilateral ties between Pakistan and China. Read More: https://theboardroompk.com/pakistans-mobile-phone-assembly-drops-sharply-by-35-in-april-2026/ The Prime Minister was received at Xiaoshan International Airport by Vice Governor of Zhejiang Province Xu Wenguang, China’s Ambassador to Pakistan Jiang Zaidong, and Pakistan’s Ambassador to China Khalil Hashmi. High-Level Engagements in Hangzhou During his stay in Hangzhou, PM Shehbaz Sharif is scheduled to meet Zhejiang Party Secretary Wang Hao. He will also participate in a business forum focused on promoting cooperation between Pakistani and Chinese companies under Phase-II of the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC).The Prime Minister is expected to witness the signing of several agreements and Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs) during the forum. Focus on Economic Cooperation PM Shehbaz will also meet chief executive officers of leading Chinese companies and visit the headquarters of Alibaba Group. These engagements are expected to open new avenues for investment, technology transfer, and industrial collaboration between the two countries.The visit comes as Pakistan and China celebrate 75 years of diplomatic relations.

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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