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Mobilink Bank Partners with Legal Aid Society to Advance Women’s Inheritance Rights and Climate Resilience in Pakistan
Pakistan

Mobilink Bank Partners with Legal Aid Society to Advance Women’s Inheritance Rights and Climate Resilience in Pakistan

Karachi, May 21, 2025: Pakistan’s leading digital microfinance bank, Mobilink Bank, has partnered with Legal Aid Society under its Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) initiatives to help women secure their inheritance rights through legal assistance, community outreach, and awareness-building efforts. The initiative builds on Mobilink Bank’s flagship inheritance rights campaign, The Invisible Heirs, which aims to raise awareness around the systemic challenges women face, and help them know & claim their rightful inheritance. Through this strategic collaboration, Mobilink Bank will financially support legal cases for women, including climate-affected inheritance disputes resulting from displacement, loss of documentation, and disaster-related exclusion, alongside non-climate cases involving denial or coerced relinquishment of inheritance rights. The initiative will provide case assessment, legal documentation support, court representation, and follow-up assistance until resolution. Commenting on the initiative, Haaris Mahmood Chaudhary, President and CEO of Mobilink Bank⁠ said: “True financial empowerment requires a holistic ecosystem that goes beyond access to banking. It begins with ensuring women have access to their rightful assets, opportunities, and financial agency. Through our partnership with Legal Aid Society, we aim to help women secure what is rightfully theirs and support their journey towards greater economic resilience and long-term empowerment.” Barrister Haya Emaan Zahid, CEO of Legal Aid Society, stated, “Access to justice is inseparable from economic empowerment. For many women, inheritance is not merely a legal entitlement; it is a pathway to dignity, security, and independence. We are grateful to Mobilink Bank for supporting this important initiative and helping expand access to justice for women who are often excluded from both legal and financial systems.” Mobilink Bank’s commitment to inheritance rights also extends to digital empowerment through innovative financial tools. As part of its inheritance campaign, The Bank introduced Pakistan’s first in-app inheritance calculator on its Dost App, enabling users, particularly women, to better understand and estimate their rightful inheritance shares through a simple, transparent, and Shariah-compliant process. By combining technology-driven financial awareness with legal aid and community engagement, Mobilink Bank is working to address systemic barriers that prevent women from accessing their lawful economic rights and achieving long-term financial resilience. Legal Aid Society also brings over a decade of experience in advancing access to justice, particularly for women and underserved communities across Pakistan. The organisation has reached more than 87 million people through legal awareness initiatives, responded to over 550,000 legal queries, and represented more than 3,000 cases. Through a model that combines legal representation, community literacy, mediation, and policy advocacy, LAS continues to work towards making justice more accessible, inclusive, and impactful for all.As part of the initiative, awareness and legal literacy sessions will also be conducted to educate communities about women’s inheritance rights, access to justice, and the importance of financial empowerment. The collaboration further strengthens Mobilink Bank’s broader social impact agenda and reinforces its commitment to building a more inclusive and resilient Pakistan where women have equitable access to rights, resources, and opportunities.

Sindh Industries Minister Calls Meeting on Separation of SITE Karachi from SITE Ltd
Pakistan

Sindh Industries Minister Calls Meeting on Separation of SITE Karachi from SITE Ltd

KARACHI: Sindh Minister for Industries Jam Ikramullah Khan Dharejo has vowed full government support for Karachi’s industrial community, acknowledging the role of the private sector in times of crisis and outlining a roadmap for structural and financial reforms across the city’s key industrial zones. Expressing his gratitude to Patron-in-Chief of S.I.T.E. Association Zubair Motiwala and SAI Patron Saleem Parekh at the Meet & Greet Dinner hosted by S.I.T.E. Association of Industry, the Minister commended the duo for the timely assistance they extended to the Sindh Government in the aftermath of two devastating incidents — the fires that gutted Gul Plaza and other similar incidents like Saddar Cooperative Market, Jubilee market & Bolton Market — which inflicted heavy losses on the trading and business community of the city. The distinguished guests included Patron-in-Chief of S.I.T.E. Association Zubair Motiwala, SAI Patron Saleem Parekh, Former President of KCCI & SAI Jawed Bilwani, KCCI President Rehan Hanif along with office bearers & senior leaders from KCCI and leaders of FPCCI, patrons & office bearers of different industrial associations, former presidents Tariq Yousuf, Younus Bashir, Majyd Aziz, Nazim F. Haji, Arshad Tanveer, Dr. Arshad Vohra, Engr. M. A. Jabbar, Junaid Makda, Suleman Chawla, Abdul Hadi, Abdul Rasheed, Riaz Uddin, Muhammad Kamran Arbi, and Ahmed Azeem Alvi, COO KWSC Asadullah Khan , MD SSGC Muhammad Amin Rajput, Asmer Naeem, and Nasim Jani Shaikh from K-Electric, Secretary of S.I.T.E. Limited Muhammad Younis Daheri, and Executive Committee members, who graced the occasion with their presence. The Industries Minister announced that a follow-up meeting would be convened specifically to deliberate on the long-pending proposal for the separation of the Sindh Industrial & Trading Estate (S.I.T.E.), Karachi. The move is being seen as part of a broader effort by the provincial government to introduce administrative and structural reforms in one of the country’s most vital industrial corridors. On the critical issue of infrastructure development funding, Dharejo stated that the government was keen to bring the private sector on board to the maximum possible extent, rather than depending entirely on provincial allocations. He made clear, however, that fresh funds would only be released to the District Municipal Corporations and concerned trade associations once existing disbursements had been fully utilized within the designated timeframe — a measure, he said, designed to ensure accountability and results-driven spending. Patron-in-Chief Zubair Motiwala, speaking on this occasion, invited the Govt. of Sindh to join hands with the business community in bringing overall improvement in government working including S.I.T.E. Limited as well as to increase exports and industrial production. He reiterated the demand to separate S.I.T.E. Karachi from the ambit of S.I.T.E. Limited and hand it over to S.I.T.E. Association of Industry to run the department in a professional manner, hiring qualified & professional staff including CEO and other top officials on merit. He said that S.I.T.E. Limited should pay attention on the issues of other industrial zones which are also suffering from lack of infrastructure and other facilities. He stressed the need to make every effort to keep the wheels of industry running in current difficult times when utilities charges are the highest in the region. SAI Patron Saleem Parekh, in his brief note, expressed gratitude to the distinguished guests for attending the event at short notice. He highlighted the importance of holding interactive meetings on a regular basis and extended special thanks to the Sindh Minister for Industries for releasing funds to industrial town associations for infrastructure development in their respective zones. Earlier, the Acting President of the Association Ahmed Zulfiqar Chaudhry welcomed the distinguished guests to the Meet & Greet Dinner and thanked the members for their presence stating that it greatly added to the warmth and spirit of the evening. SAI VP Tahir Goreja delivered the vote of thanks and concluded the event with the resolve to make the country economically stronger by boosting its exports, earning more foreign exchange, and providing employment to the people. The house paid tributes to the selfless & devoted services being rendered by the armed forces of Pakistan for maintaining peace & tranquility in the country as well as for strong reply given against Indian aggression last year which has boosted morale of the nation. The house noted that Pakistani passport’s ranking has also increased worldwide. The house also paid tributes to the leader of business community (Late) Siraj Kassam Teli and his selfless services for the cause of business community were remembered. As a gesture of goodwill, Association’s Shields were presented to representatives of industrial town associations and civic agencies.

Petroleum Division Opposes IMF's Fuel Tax Hike Demand, Seeks Major Relief
Pakistan

Petroleum Division Opposes IMF’s Fuel Tax Hike Demand, Seeks Major Relief

The Petroleum Division has strongly opposed any further increase in the petroleum levy target and recommended reducing it to Rs1 trillion for FY2027 while cutting the per-litre levy rate to Rs50 as long as global oil prices remain elevated. Read More: https://theboardroompk.com/pakistan-kenya-agree-to-double-bilateral-trade-in-five-years/ The proposal is aimed at easing pressure on consumers already burdened by record-high fuel prices and heavy taxation. Officials warned that maintaining excessively high levies could worsen affordability issues and create broader economic and social challenges across Pakistan. According to the division, recent tensions between the United States and Iran have pushed global oil prices sharply higher, resulting in domestic fuel price increases of nearly 56 percent for petrol and 48 percent for diesel. The division argued that reducing reliance on petroleum levies is necessary to protect vulnerable segments of society. Ali Pervaiz Malik reportedly wrote to Finance Minister Muhammad Aurangzeb, stressing the urgent need for relief measures. Discussions were also held at the Prime Minister’s Office regarding the worsening fuel price situation. The proposed Rs1 trillion levy target is Rs727 billion lower than projections made by the International Monetary Fund and Rs468 billion below the original target for the current fiscal year. The Petroleum Division also recommended reducing the levy on petrol and diesel to Rs50 per litre, which is Rs30 lower than the IMF-agreed rate. Currently, the government charges around Rs118 per litre as petroleum levy on petrol. Under the proposal, the levy should only increase beyond Rs50 if global crude oil prices fall below $60 per barrel. The recommendations were submitted to the Finance Ministry ahead of the federal budget announcement scheduled for June 5. The division noted that since the Pakistan Democratic Movement government came to power in 2022, petroleum levy collections have consistently exceeded targets, reaching an estimated Rs4.3 trillion between July 2022 and June 2026. By comparison, collections remained below targets during the final two years of the previous Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf government. Officials highlighted that petroleum levy currently accounts for nearly 36 percent of the total petrol price and has frequently been used to offset revenue shortfalls faced by the Federal Board of Revenue. The Petroleum Division also proposed reducing sales tax on LPG from 18 percent to 10 percent and avoiding any increase in LPG levy targets. It further recommended allocating Rs130 billion for gas subsidies instead of passing the financial burden onto residential consumers. Additional recommendations included resolving legacy issues facing Pakistan State Oil, ending cross-subsidies in gas pricing, clearing Rs55 billion in pending tax refunds for Sui Northern Gas Pipelines Limited, and addressing Rs182 billion tax demands related to gas swapping arrangements. The division also stressed the need to budget for PSO’s exchange losses, allocate funds to clear Rs61 billion in arrears, and abolish the 10 percent super tax imposed on oil and gas companies to maintain sector viability. Experts believe these measures are necessary to ensure a sustainable energy supply chain while protecting the financial stability of companies operating in Pakistan’s oil, gas, and mineral sectors.

Pakistan, Kenya Agree to Double Bilateral Trade in Five Years
Business

Pakistan, Kenya Agree to Double Bilateral Trade in Five Years

ISLAMABAD, May 21, 2026: Pakistan and Kenya have reaffirmed their commitment to significantly expanding bilateral economic ties, agreeing to double the volume of bilateral trade over the next five years during the Second Session of the Pakistan-Kenya Joint Trade Committee (JTC) held in Islamabad. Read More: https://theboardroompk.com/state-bank-of-pakistan-sbp-to-issue-rs75-commemorative-coin-to-mark-75th-anniversary-of-the-establishment-of-diplomatic-relations-between-pakistan-and-china/ The session was co-chaired by Mr. Jawad Paul, Secretary, Ministry of Commerce, Islamic Republic of Pakistan, and Ms. Regina A. Ombam, Principal Secretary, State Department for Trade, Republic of Kenya, with participation from representatives of various government departments from both countries. The Joint Trade Committee, a key bilateral platform for strengthening trade relations and addressing outstanding trade matters, reaffirmed the strong importance both countries attach to their economic partnership and future commercial cooperation. The session recorded meaningful progress across a broad range of priority sectors, with both sides agreeing to enhance cooperation in market access, export promotion, customs, investment, animal quarantine, plant protection, sanitary and phytosanitary measures, technical standards, pharmaceuticals, banking, trade dispute resolution, information and communication technology, tourism, and industry.

CAP Demands Dubai-Style Strict Laws to Regulate Karachi’s Real Estate Sector
Pakistan

CAP Demands Dubai-Style Strict Laws to Regulate Karachi’s Real Estate Sector

Karachi: The Consumers Association of Pakistan (CAP) has called for the introduction of strict property and building laws similar to those in Dubai to protect homebuyers from delays, non-delivery of properties, and illegal booking practices by builders. Read More: https://theboardroompk.com/state-bank-of-pakistan-sbp-to-issue-rs75-commemorative-coin-to-mark-75th-anniversary-of-the-establishment-of-diplomatic-relations-between-pakistan-and-china/ The Chairman of the Consumers Association of Pakistan, Mr. Kaukab Iqbal, along with Vice Chairman CAP Muhammad Kamal Mughal, met with Mr. Muzamil Hussain, Director General of the Sindh Building Control Authority, at his office to discuss consumers’ grievances regarding builders and real estate projects in Karachi. During the meeting, Mr. Kaukab Iqbal highlighted the growing concerns of consumers regarding delayed housing projects, non-delivery of properties on time, and illegal booking practices by certain builders. He emphasized that in the history of Karachi, many projects remain incomplete, causing serious financial and mental distress to consumers. Mr. Kaukab Iqbal advised the DG SBCA that the Government should introduce strict property and building laws similar to those implemented in Dubai in order to regulate the real estate sector effectively and ensure the protection of consumers’ rights. He also identified that some builders are taking bookings from the public without having proper ownership or legal possession of land. Mr. Kaukab Iqbal urged SBCA to take immediate and strict action against such builders to safeguard the interests of innocent consumers. During the meeting, Mr. Kaukab Iqbal informed the DG SBCA that CAP has constituted a “Consumers Protection Committee on Housing & Real Estate,” which will work under the Chairmanship of Vice Chairman CAP Muhammad Kamal Mughal to address complaints and issues faced by consumers in the housing and real estate sector. It was further announced that Mr. Muhammad Kamal Mughal has been nominated as the Chairman of the Consumers Protection Committee on Housing & Real Estate. The committee will work to address consumer grievances and ensure protection of rights in the housing and real estate sector. The committee members are: DG SBCA Mr. Muzamil Hussain appreciated the efforts and public interest initiatives of the Consumers Association of Pakistan and assured full support and cooperation with CAP for the protection of consumers and improvement of the real estate sector in the public interest.

SBP To Issue Rs75 Commemorative Coin Marking 75 Years Of Pakistan-China Diplomatic Relations
Breaking News

State Bank of Pakistan (SBP) to Issue Rs75/-Commemorative Coin to mark 75th Anniversary of the Establishment of Diplomatic Relations between Pakistan and China

To mark the 75th anniversary of diplomatic relations Pakistan and China, the Government of Pakistan has decided to issue a commemorative coin of Rs.75 denomination. The coin will be available to the general public from May 25, 2026, through the exchange counters of field offices of SBP Banking Services Corporation. It may be recalled that the Pakistan and China formally established diplomatic relations on May 21, 1951. Read More: https://theboardroompk.com/pakistan-offshore-exploration-reopens-after-20-years-as-1-billion-energy-push-begins/ The commemorative coin shall be round in shape milled with serration on the edge, with the following specifications: Metal composition: Copper-Nickel, (75% Copper & 25% Nickel)Dimension: 36.0 mmWeight: 19.0 grams OBVERSE: On the obverse side of the coin, the waxing crescent moon and five-pointed star facing North-West in rising position, is in the center. Along with periphery on the top of the crescent star is inscribed in wording “ISLAMI JAMHURIA PAKISTAN” in Urdu script. Below the crescent and on the top of two springs of wheat with arms curved upward, there is the year of issuance 2026. The face value of coin in numeral “75” in bold letters and RUPIA in Urdu script are written on the right and left sides of the crescent star respectively.REVERSE: On the reverse side of the coin, wording “75TH ANNIVERSARY OF PAKISTAN AND CHINA DIPLOMATIC RELATIONS” in English script is written along with periphery on top side of the coin and words “TRUST FRIENDSHIP SUPPORT” in English Script are written along with the periphery on lower side of the coin. In the center of the coin national flags of Islamic Republic of Pakistan and Peoples Republic of China are shown. Below the national flags artistically designed numeral “75” is shown representing the event. Years “1951” and “2026” are shown on the left and right sides of the artistically designed number “75”. Wordings “PAK CHEEN SAFARATI TAULUQAT KAY 75 SAAL” in Urdu and Chinese script are written above the national flags. Wordings “EITAMAD-DOSTI-MU’AWANAT” in Urdu and Chinese script are written below the artistically designed numeral “75”.

Pakistan Offshore Exploration Reopens After 20 Years as $1 Billion Energy Push Begins
Pakistan

Pakistan Offshore Exploration Reopens After 20 Years as $1 Billion Energy Push Begins

Pakistan Offshore Exploration has officially returned to the national spotlight after nearly 20 years, with the government signing Production Sharing Agreements and Exploration Licences for 21 offshore blocks under the Offshore Bid Round 2025. The landmark development is being viewed as one of Pakistan’s biggest energy sector breakthroughs in recent years. Industry experts believe the move could unlock billions of dollars in future investment, reduce dependence on imported fuel, and reshape Pakistan’s offshore energy future. Federal Minister for Petroleum Ali Pervaiz Malik witnessed the signing ceremony and described the initiative as a defining moment for Pakistan’s energy sector. Offshore Bid Round 2025 Sparks Massive Investor Interest The Offshore Bid Round 2025 attracted bids covering around 54,600 square kilometres of offshore territory near the coastal waters of Sindh and Balochistan. A total of 23 offshore exploration blocks were awarded under the bid round. Two blocks, Offshore Deep-C and Offshore Deep-F, had already been signed earlier with Mari Energies Limited, Turkish Petroleum Overseas Company, and Fatima Petroleum Company Limited. With the latest signing ceremony, the contractual framework for all 23 offshore blocks now stands fully completed. Why Pakistan Offshore Exploration Matters Now Pakistan’s offshore frontier covers an enormous 282,623 square kilometres, yet only 18 exploratory wells have been drilled since independence. This limited activity has long raised questions about the untapped oil and gas potential hidden beneath Pakistan’s coastal waters. The government now wants to transform Pakistan into a competitive offshore exploration destination by introducing transparent policies and investor-friendly regulations. Officials highlighted the implementation of Offshore Petroleum Rules and a new Model Production Sharing Agreement aimed at improving transparency, investor confidence, and competitiveness. The development comes at a time when Pakistan continues to struggle with rising energy import costs and foreign exchange pressure. Officials hope local offshore discoveries could eventually ease the burden on the economy. Mari Energies Emerges as the Biggest Winner Mari Energies Limited emerged as the most aggressive player in Pakistan Offshore Exploration, securing participation in all 23 awarded blocks. The company will operate 18 blocks directly while partnering in five additional blocks through joint ventures. Meanwhile, Oil and Gas Development Company Limited and Pakistan Petroleum Limited were each awarded eight exploration blocks, including two operator roles each. Other companies participating in the offshore push include Prime Global Energies Limited, United Energy Pakistan Limited, and Orient Petroleum Incorporation. $82 Million Phase-I Investment Could Grow to $1 Billion The initial three-year licence period is expected to attract approximately $82 million in early-stage investment. During this phase, companies will conduct seismic surveys, geological studies, and geophysical assessments to identify promising hydrocarbon reserves beneath offshore basins. However, the real financial explosion could come later. If exploration results prove successful, Pakistan Offshore Exploration investment could jump to nearly $1 billion during Phase-II drilling operations. Additional commercial discoveries could trigger hundreds of millions of dollars more in development and production spending. Sindh and Balochistan Coastlines Could See Major Economic Activity The offshore initiative is expected to create economic opportunities in coastal regions of Sindh and Balochistan through employment generation, infrastructure upgrades, and technology transfer. Energy firms have also committed to social welfare and capacity-building programmes for local communities living near exploration zones. Government officials believe successful offshore discoveries could dramatically reduce Pakistan’s energy import bill while strengthening long-term energy security. Global Oil Giants Eye Pakistan Offshore Exploration The Petroleum Division confirmed that several international energy companies are already reviewing Pakistan’s offshore geological data. Officials plan to actively engage major global oil firms during the next phase of exploration activity. If international participation expands, Pakistan could emerge as one of South Asia’s newest offshore energy frontiers. For a country struggling with energy shortages, rising import costs, and economic pressure, the reopening of Pakistan Offshore Exploration may become far more than an energy story. It could become a national economic turning point.

Used Vehicle Imports Drop Boosts Pakistan Auto Parts Industry Growth
Auto

Used Vehicle Imports Drop Boosts Pakistan Auto Parts Industry Growth

Pakistan’s struggling manufacturing sector may finally be seeing a major turnaround as the sharp decline in Used Vehicle Imports begins to fuel growth for local auto assemblers and parts manufacturers. The Pakistan Association of Automotive Parts and Accessories Manufacturers (PAAPAM) has described the dramatic fall in imported used cars as a “game-changing development” for industrialisation in the country. Industry leaders believe the shift could revive Pakistan’s auto manufacturing ecosystem and create fresh momentum for large-scale industrial growth. For years, local manufacturers argued that excessive imports of used vehicles were damaging domestic production, reducing investment, and hurting thousands of workers linked to Pakistan’s automotive supply chain. Now, new government measures appear to be reversing that trend. Used Vehicle Imports Hit Record Low in Pakistan According to PAAPAM, only 148 used vehicles entered Pakistan in April under various import schemes. The figures reveal a stunning decline compared to previous years when monthly imports ranged between 3,500 and 4,000 vehicles. The imported vehicles included: • 19 vehicles under the gift scheme• 120 vehicles under the baggage scheme• 9 vehicles under the transfer of residence scheme Industry experts say this sharp reduction reflects stricter enforcement by authorities and the closure of loopholes that were allegedly being exploited for commercial imports. PAAPAM claims many importers had been misusing overseas Pakistani schemes to bring in vehicles for resale, creating unfair competition for local manufacturers. How Used Vehicle Imports Hurt Pakistan’s Auto Parts Industry The biggest beneficiaries of the decline in Used Vehicle Imports are Pakistan’s local auto vendors and parts manufacturers. According to PAAPAM, every locally assembled vehicle contains approximately Rs1.5 million worth of locally manufactured parts. When consumers purchase imported used vehicles instead of locally assembled cars, that revenue disappears from Pakistan’s industrial economy. The association estimates that used car imports have been causing annual losses exceeding Rs60 billion for domestic parts manufacturers. That financial damage affected thousands of businesses connected to the automotive supply chain, including: • Steel manufacturers• Plastic component makers• Tire companies• Electrical parts suppliers• Small engineering workshops Industry insiders say the latest import slowdown is already helping local factories increase production capacity and improve business confidence. Government Policies Behind the Decline in Used Vehicle Imports PAAPAM praised the government for taking “timely corrective measures” to support domestic manufacturing and reduce dependency on imported vehicles. The association believes policy reforms have successfully tightened regulations surrounding import schemes that were originally designed to facilitate overseas Pakistanis rather than commercial traders. These actions are now encouraging consumers to shift back toward locally assembled vehicles, directly benefiting Pakistan’s manufacturing sector. Experts say the move also supports the government’s broader economic goals, including: • Reducing pressure on foreign exchange reserves• Promoting industrialisation• Increasing employment opportunities• Expanding local manufacturing capacity• Supporting large-scale manufacturing growth Used Vehicle Imports Decline Fuels Industrial Recovery Pakistan’s large-scale manufacturing sector has faced serious challenges in recent years due to inflation, currency depreciation, high interest rates, and falling consumer demand. However, the drop in Used Vehicle Imports is now being viewed as a positive signal for industrial recovery. PAAPAM says rising demand for locally assembled vehicles is increasing production activity among both assemblers and vendors. This renewed activity could strengthen Pakistan’s industrial output in the coming months. The association also stressed that sustainable policy support remains essential if Pakistan wants to build a competitive automotive industry capable of generating exports and attracting long-term investment. Can Pakistan’s Auto Industry Finally Rebound? The sharp fall in Used Vehicle Imports has triggered optimism across Pakistan’s automotive sector. Manufacturers believe the country now has an opportunity to rebuild its industrial base and strengthen local production capabilities. While challenges such as high vehicle prices, taxes, and weak consumer purchasing power still remain, industry stakeholders see the latest trend as a major victory for domestic manufacturing. If the current momentum continues, Pakistan’s auto sector could emerge as one of the key drivers of industrial growth and economic recovery in the years ahead.

Hutchison Ports Pakistan handles five-vessel operations simultaneously
Pakistan

Hutchison Ports Pakistan handles five-vessel operations simultaneously

Karachi, 20 May 2026 – Hutchison Ports Pakistan has reinforced its operational excellence by successfully processing a complex multi-vessel operation, handling four mainline vessels and one feeder vessel simultaneously. Read More: https://theboardroompk.com/ptcl-ufone-achieve-pci-dss-v4-0-1-certification-strengthening-secure-payment-card-data-handling/ A total of 10,301 TEUs were efficiently handled during the operation, minimizing vessel turnaround times and maintaining strict service reliability. The vessels have since moved across critical trade lanes, with next destinations extending to Sohar (Middle East), Colombo (South Asia), and Singapore and Malaysia (Southeast Asia), further integrating Pakistan into global maritime trade routes. Commenting on the achievement, CS Kim, CEO of Hutchison Ports Pakistan, stated, “This successful operation reflects our team’s planning discipline and operational resilience. Managing this volume simultaneously demonstrates our capacity strength and our commitment to ensuring seamless service for our shipping line partners.” Hutchison Ports Pakistan continues to invest in infrastructure and workforce capability to support growing trade volumes, reinforcing its position as a reliable, high-performance gateway in the region’s maritime logistics network.

Three Day Eid Holidays Announced for Public and Government Offices
Breaking News

Three Day Eid Holidays Announced for Public and Government Offices

The federal government has officially announced public holidays for Eid ul Adha 2026 across Pakistan. According to a notification issued by the Cabinet Division on Wednesday, the holidays will be observed from May 26 to May 28. The notification stated that Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif approved three public holidays for the religious festival. The holidays will fall on Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday, allowing citizens across the country to celebrate Eid with their families and communities. Eid ul Adha to Be Celebrated on May 27 Pakistan will observe Eid ul Adha on Wednesday, May 27, 2026, after the Zilhaj moon was sighted earlier this month. The announcement was made by the Central Ruet i Hilal Committee following its meeting held at the Pakistan Meteorological Department headquarters in Karachi on May 17. The meeting was chaired by Ruet committee chairman Maulana Abdul Khabir Azad, who confirmed that credible testimonies regarding moon sighting were received from several regions of the country. Speaking during a press conference, the chairman announced that the first day of Zilhaj 1447 AH began on Monday, May 18. As a result, Eid ul Adha will be celebrated nationwide on May 27. Religious Importance of Eid ul Adha Eid ul Adha is one of the two major Islamic festivals celebrated by Muslims around the world. The occasion commemorates the devotion and obedience of Prophet Ibrahim (PBUH), who was willing to sacrifice his son on the command of Allah. According to Islamic belief, Allah replaced the sacrifice with a ram before it could take place. The festival is also widely known as the Feast of Sacrifice. Muslims mark the occasion by offering Eid prayers, gathering with family members, and performing the ritual sacrifice of animals such as goats, cows, and camels. Traditions and Celebrations Across Pakistan During Eid ul Adha, families distribute meat among relatives, neighbours, and underprivileged communities as part of the religious practice. Markets across Pakistan usually witness increased activity ahead of Eid, especially cattle markets, shopping centres, and transport services. Authorities in major cities are also expected to implement special security and cleanliness arrangements during the three day holiday period. Municipal administrations often launch operations for waste collection and sanitation after animal sacrifices. The Eid holidays are also expected to increase travel activity as many people return to their hometowns to celebrate with loved ones. Bus terminals, railway stations, and airports generally experience heavy passenger traffic before the festival. Public Offices and Businesses to Remain Closed Government offices, educational institutions, and several private businesses will remain closed during the announced holidays. However, essential services including hospitals, emergency departments, and security institutions will continue operating throughout the Eid period. Banks may also remain closed for public dealing during the official holidays, although the State Bank of Pakistan is expected to issue a separate circular regarding banking operations.

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