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Pakistan’s Economy Expands to $452 Billion with 3.99% Q3 Growth
Pakistan

Pakistan’s Economy Expands to $452 Billion with 3.99% Q3 Growth

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Pakistan’s economy demonstrated robust momentum in the third quarter of fiscal year 2025-26, registering a year-on-year GDP growth of 3.99%. According to the National Accounts Committee (NAC), industry led the expansion, supported by steady gains in agriculture and services. The overall size of the economy has now reached $452.1 billion. Sectoral Performance Highlights The industrial sector posted the strongest growth at 4.65% in Q3, primarily fueled by a remarkable 9.53% surge in large-scale manufacturing. This offset contractions in mining & quarrying (-2.55%) and electricity, gas & water supply (-13.53%). Construction showed modest recovery with 0.48% growth. Agriculture and Services Contributions Agriculture expanded by 3.01%, with positive contributions across all sub-sectors: important crops (1.10%), other crops (2.27%), livestock (3.70%), forestry (1.62%), and fishing (1.37%). Services grew by 4.18%, driven by strong performances in information & communication (9.78%), public administration (8.88%), and wholesale & retail trade (4.13%). The NAC also revised upward the growth figures for Q1 and Q2 FY26 to 3.92% and 4.05% respectively. For the full fiscal year, provisional GDP growth stands at 3.70%. Final revised growth rates for previous years were set at 2.62% for FY24 and 3.18% for FY25. These figures reflect improving economic stability amid ongoing reforms and external support, including recent IMF disbursements. Per capita income has risen to $1,901 based on the latest population projections. Analysts view the industrial rebound, especially in manufacturing, as a positive signal for job creation and investment. However, challenges like energy shortages in certain segments and the need for broader sectoral diversification remain. The government continues to emphasize digitalization and export-led growth to sustain this trajectory.

NEPRA Rejects NGC Review Petition, Reaffirms Competitive Power Market Reforms
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NEPRA Rejects NGC Review Petition, Reaffirms Competitive Power Market Reforms

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The National Electric Power Regulatory Authority (NEPRA) rejected the NGC review petition and reaffirmed its decision to move Pakistan toward a competitive electricity market. The regulator dismissed the petition filed by the National Grid Company (NGC) against the registration of the Central Power Purchasing Agency Guarantee Limited (CPPA-G) as a Special Purpose Agent (SPA) and the approval of the Agency Code. In its detailed order issued on May 13 2026 NEPRA stated that the NGC review petition failed to identify any legal error or provide fresh evidence that could justify a review under the NEPRA Review Procedure Regulations 2009. The Authority said the petition did not meet the legal requirements necessary for reopening the earlier determination. The decision marks another major step in the implementation of the Competitive Trading Bilateral Contract Market (CTBCM) framework in Pakistan’s power sector. NEPRA maintained that the transition toward a direct bilateral market system remains necessary to improve transparency financial discipline and accountability. NEPRA Rejects Centralized Billing Requests The NGC review petition mainly challenged the shift from centralized billing and settlement through CPPA-G to direct contractual arrangements between market participants. NGC requested the continuation of the existing mechanism for recovering Use of Transmission System Charges (UoTSC) and Pak Matiari Lahore Transmission Company (PMLTC) charges. However NEPRA rejected these demands and stated that the CTBCM framework requires direct billing settlement and payment recovery between market participants. The regulator said the old centralized pooling system no longer fits within the new market model. According to the Authority the direct contractual system will force entities to become financially responsible and improve payment discipline in the power sector. NEPRA explained that centralized arrangements often create inefficiencies and weaken accountability among market players. The regulator also stressed that Pakistan’s power sector needs structural reforms to reduce circular debt and improve operational performance. Officials believe competitive market practices can encourage better financial management and reduce long term risks. PMLTC Charges Not Treated as Legacy Contracts The NGC review petition also argued that PMLTC charges should receive the status of legacy pass through liabilities. NEPRA rejected this position and clarified that only Power Purchase Agreements (PPAs) and Energy Purchase Agreements (EPAs) qualify as legacy contracts under the market framework. The Authority stated that transmission related liabilities do not fall within the legal definition of legacy contracts. As a result NEPRA refused to allow continued recovery of transmission charges under older arrangements. The decision strengthens the regulator’s position on implementing a fully competitive electricity market without exceptions that could weaken the new system. Energy experts say the ruling sends a clear message that NEPRA intends to move forward with reforms despite opposition from some stakeholders within the power sector. NEPRA Dismisses Concerns Over Payment Risks NGC also raised concerns about payment security under the direct billing model. The company argued that transmission entities could face higher risks if centralized payment mechanisms ended. However NEPRA dismissed these concerns and stated that centralized systems only redistribute payment risks rather than eliminate them. The Authority maintained that each market participant must take responsibility for managing receivables and contractual obligations. According to the regulator direct contractual arrangements will encourage stronger financial discipline and better risk management practices among electricity sector companies. The Authority also rejected several additional proposals submitted through the NGC review petition. These included requests to introduce a pay first dispute later mechanism extend delayed payment surcharge provisions to transmission charges and grant priority payment status to NGC. NEPRA ruled that such measures would contradict the principles of a competitive bilateral electricity market. The regulator emphasized that no entity should receive special financial protections outside the approved market framework. Competitive Electricity Market Reforms Continue The rejection of the NGC review petition represents another important development in Pakistan’s ongoing electricity sector reforms. The CTBCM framework aims to replace the old centralized power purchasing structure with a market based system. Under the new model electricity buyers and sellers will enter direct contracts instead of relying on a single centralized purchasing entity. Policymakers believe this transition can improve efficiency encourage competition and reduce financial pressures within the power sector. Pakistan’s electricity sector has struggled for years with circular debt delayed payments and governance issues. Authorities hope market reforms will help address these longstanding problems and create a more sustainable energy system. Despite concerns raised by some market participants NEPRA has continued to support reforms designed to modernize the electricity market and improve investor confidence. Analysts believe the successful implementation of the CTBCM framework could reshape Pakistan’s energy landscape and strengthen financial accountability across the sector.

Pakistan CPI Inflation Rises to 10.9 Percent in April, Says Ahsan Iqbal
Pakistan

Pakistan CPI Inflation Rises to 10.9 Percent in April, Says Ahsan Iqbal

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Federal Minister for Planning Development and Special Initiatives Ahsan Iqbal said Pakistan CPI inflation during July to February of fiscal year 2025 26 stood at 5.5 percent compared to 5.7 percent during the same period last year. However he warned that monthly inflation recorded an upward trend in recent months. While briefing the media during the Monthly Development Update for May 2026 Ahsan Iqbal said Pakistan CPI inflation increased from 7.3 percent in March 2026 to 10.9 percent in April 2026. The rise pushed inflation back into double digits after months of relative stability. The minister said Pakistan’s economy showed encouraging signs during the first eight months of FY 2025 26 despite global economic uncertainty and regional tensions. He highlighted lower average inflation recovery in industrial production exchange rate stability strong stock market performance improved Public Sector Development Programme (PSDP) utilization and higher remittances. Government Strengthens Price Monitoring Measures Ahsan Iqbal said the government increased price monitoring efforts to control inflation and protect consumers from rising costs. He stated that the National Price Monitoring Committee now holds weekly meetings to review market trends and commodity prices. According to the minister coordinated efforts between federal and provincial governments helped bring prices of essential commodities closer to pre conflict levels. Authorities remain focused on maintaining supply chains and reducing pressure on household budgets. The minister also referred to projections by the International Monetary Fund (IMF). He said the IMF expects global economic growth to slow to 3.1 percent in 2026 compared to the earlier estimate of 3.3 percent before regional conflicts intensified. He added that global inflation is projected to rise to 4.4 percent from the previous estimate of 3.8 percent. According to him international economic uncertainty continues to affect developing economies including Pakistan. Large Scale Manufacturing Records Recovery The minister said Pakistan’s Large Scale Manufacturing (LSM) sector recorded a broad based recovery during the current fiscal year. He stated that LSM growth reached 6.5 percent during July to March FY 2025 26 after the sector experienced difficulties over the past two years. Ahsan Iqbal attributed the recovery to several government measures including the Prime Minister’s export enhancement package increased private sector credit improved PSDP utilization and ease of doing business reforms under the URAAN Pakistan initiative. He said 15 out of 22 industrial sectors showed positive growth during the period. These sectors included automobiles electrical equipment tobacco food beverages wearing apparel and non metallic mineral products. Economic analysts believe industrial recovery could support employment growth and improve investor confidence if the momentum continues over the coming months. FBR Revenues and Remittances Show Improvement The minister said fiscal performance remained strong despite economic challenges. He stated that the Federal Board of Revenue (FBR) collected Rs 10.3 trillion during July to April FY 2025 26. The figure represents a 10.3 percent increase compared to the same period last year. According to Ahsan Iqbal improved tax enforcement and gradual economic recovery supported higher revenue collection. He also highlighted strong remittance inflows from overseas Pakistanis. Remittances increased by 8.5 percent to 33.9 billion US dollars during the period under review. The minister said the increase reflects the confidence of overseas Pakistanis in the country’s economic stability. However he warned that ongoing tensions in the Middle East could create risks for future remittance inflows. He said the government is taking proactive measures to protect Pakistani workers abroad and ensure continued support for overseas employment opportunities. Current Account Remains in Surplus Discussing the external sector Ahsan Iqbal said exports of goods and services reached 30.6 billion US dollars during July to March FY 2025 26. Imports during the same period increased to 56.3 billion US dollars. The minister noted that services exports recorded strong growth of 17 percent and reached 7.3 billion US dollars. The increase outpaced the 10.1 percent growth in services imports. Despite external pressures Pakistan maintained a current account surplus for three consecutive months. According to the minister strong remittances and rising information technology exports helped support the external account. Economic experts say the continuation of export growth and remittance inflows will remain critical for maintaining exchange rate stability and reducing pressure on foreign reserves.

SME Growth in Pakistan Gains Momentum as PM Shehbaz Orders Easier Loans for Women Entrepreneurs
Pakistan

SME Growth in Pakistan Gains Momentum as PM Shehbaz Orders Easier Loans for Women Entrepreneurs

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SME Growth in Pakistan is moving into the national spotlight after Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif ordered commercial banks to make loans easier for women entrepreneurs and small businesses across the country. The move is being seen as a major economic intervention aimed at unlocking business potential, increasing exports, and creating jobs at a time when Pakistan is looking for stronger economic stability and sustainable growth. Chairing a high-level review meeting on SME reforms, the prime minister stressed that small and medium enterprises are the backbone of Pakistan’s economy and could become a powerful engine for exports if given proper financial support. PM Shehbaz Wants Banks to Open Doors for Small Businesses During the meeting, PM Shehbaz Sharif instructed commercial banks to simplify the credit process for SMEs and women-led businesses. The government believes that many talented entrepreneurs remain trapped due to limited financing options, strict lending conditions, and lack of banking support. The prime minister emphasized that SMEs must receive easier access to capital so they can expand operations, modernize production, and compete in international markets. Officials attending the meeting included key federal ministers, senior policymakers, the Governor of the State Bank of Pakistan, and representatives from Small and Medium Enterprises Development Authority. SME Growth in Pakistan Linked to Export Expansion One of the strongest messages from the meeting was the government’s focus on turning SMEs into export-driven businesses. Authorities revealed that a special export financing window created on the prime minister’s instructions has already helped onboard 41 new SMEs. This financing facility is designed to help smaller businesses enter international markets by providing easier funding access and export support. Experts believe Pakistan’s SME sector has long remained underutilized despite contributing significantly to employment and industrial activity. The new export-focused strategy could help local manufacturers and startups compete globally. Agriculture Processing Sector Gets Big Relief In another major development, PM Shehbaz directed authorities to grant SME status to agriculture processing sectors. This decision could open new financing opportunities for food processing units, agricultural exporters, packaging companies, and rural enterprises that previously struggled to qualify for SME-related benefits. Analysts say this move may help modernize Pakistan’s agriculture value chain while increasing exports of processed food and agricultural products. State Bank Reveals Stunning Rise in SME Lending The meeting also highlighted a sharp rise in SME financing across Pakistan. According to the State Bank Governor, private sector lending crossed the Rs 904 billion target during the first three quarters of the current fiscal year. SME loans recorded an impressive 28 percent increase, signaling growing confidence in the business sector. Due to this rapid growth, authorities have revised the 2028 SME lending target upward from Rs 1,100 billion to Rs 1,500 billion. The revised target reflects the government’s aggressive strategy to expand private sector activity and encourage entrepreneurship nationwide. 48 New Initiatives Planned for SME Growth in Pakistan Officials briefed the prime minister on 48 separate initiatives prepared across eight strategic sectors. These initiatives are expected to support business growth over the next two to four years. The roadmap was developed jointly by SMEDA and the Ministry of Industries. PM Shehbaz ordered authorities to prepare a strict implementation plan with clear deadlines and measurable goals. The government hopes these reforms will improve industrial productivity, increase exports, encourage innovation, and create employment opportunities for thousands of Pakistanis. Why This Matters for Pakistan’s Economy Pakistan’s SME sector accounts for a large share of employment and business activity, but many enterprises continue to face financing shortages and market access barriers. By improving access to loans and export opportunities, the government aims to strengthen economic activity from the grassroots level. If implemented effectively, these reforms could reshape Pakistan’s business environment by empowering startups, supporting women entrepreneurs, boosting industrial production, and driving long-term export growth. The latest push for SME Growth in Pakistan signals that the government is now placing small businesses at the center of its economic recovery strategy.

Indian Cargo Ship Sinks Near Oman After Suspected Drone Strike
World

Indian Cargo Ship Sinks Near Oman After Suspected Drone Strike

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NEW DELHI – The Government of India on Thursday issued a sharp condemnation following an attack on an Indian-flagged commercial vessel off the coast of Oman. The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) officially termed the incident “unacceptable,” marking a significant escalation in India’s diplomatic posture regarding maritime security in the region. Read More: https://theboardroompk.com/pakistan-faces-population-time-bomb-390-million-by-2050/ The vessel, identified as the Haji Ali, was reportedly transiting through Omani waters when it was targeted on Wednesday. According to official statements, the attack led to the eventual sinking of the ship, though all Indian crew members on board were successfully rescued and are currently safe. India’s Official Protest In a formal statement, the MEA deplored the continued targeting of commercial shipping and civilian mariners. The ministry emphasized that such actions not only endanger innocent lives but also threaten the fundamental principles of freedom of navigation and international commerce. New Delhi has reiterated that the safety of its citizens and vessels is a top priority. The government is currently in close coordination with Omani authorities to investigate the specifics of the strike and ensure the safe repatriation of the rescued sailors. Regional Security Concerns The incident occurs amidst a volatile period for shipping lanes in the Gulf and the Arabian Sea. India has called on all regional stakeholders to avoid actions that impede maritime trade, warning that the targeting of commercial assets could have far-reaching consequences for global energy and supply chains.

Israeli Nationalists Stage Annual Jerusalem Day Parade to Celebrate Capture of East Jerusalem
World

Israeli Nationalists Stage Annual Jerusalem Day Parade to Celebrate Capture of East Jerusalem

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JERUSALEM: Thousands of Israeli nationalists marched through the Muslim quarter of Jerusalem’s Old City on Thursday as part of the annual Jerusalem Day celebrations, marking Israel’s capture of East Jerusalem in the 1967 Middle East war. The event took place under tight security with thousands of police officers deployed. Tensions Rise in the Old City The parade, a show of strength for Jewish nationalists, wound its way from West Jerusalem toward the Western Wall. Palestinian shopkeepers were forced to close their businesses, and entry to the area was restricted for many Palestinians not residing in the Old City. Israeli authorities erected barricades near Damascus Gate. Palestinian Views and Historical Context Palestinians see the march as a provocative assertion aimed at weakening their connection to the city they envision as the capital of a future state. Israel annexed East Jerusalem after the 1967 war, a move not recognized by the United Nations or most countries. The route passes sensitive holy sites revered by both Jews and Muslims. Participants expressed deep attachment to the city. One attendee, Shira Gefen, 53, from near Haifa, stated, “Jerusalem is our holy city. It is our holy city forever.” The event has historically featured nationalist chants, sometimes including inflammatory slogans, raising concerns about potential clashes. Police in riot gear maintained a strong presence to prevent incidents. The march highlights ongoing disputes over sovereignty and access in one of the world’s most contested urban spaces. While Israelis celebrate it as reunification, Palestinians view it as a symbol of occupation.

Vietnamese Envoy sees Karachi emerging as regional transshipment hub
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CHANGING GLOBAL TRADE DYNAMICS: Vietnamese Envoy sees Karachi emerging as regional transshipment hub

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KARACHI: Ambassador of Vietnam to Pakistan Pham Anh Tuan has said that evolving geopolitical and trade dynamics in the region have created new opportunities for Pakistan, particularly for Karachi, which possesses the potential to rapidly emerge as a regional trade and logistics hub owing to the strategic importance of Karachi Port. Speaking during his visit to Karachi Chamber of Commerce & Industry (KCCI), Ambassador Pham Anh Tuan observed that disruptions in global supply chains due to ongoing tensions in the Middle East and the broader US-Israel-Iran conflict have compelled businesses worldwide to explore alternative trade and transshipment routes. In this scenario, Karachi Port could play a vital role in connecting regional markets, particularly the Middle East, through enhanced maritime and transshipment activities. The meeting was also attended by Head of Vietnam Trade Mission in Karachi Nguyen Thi Diep Ha, President KCCI Muhammad Rehan Hanif, Senior Vice President KCCI Muhammad Raza, Chairman Diplomatic Missions & Embassies Liaison Subcommittee Ahsan Arshad Sheikh and members of the KCCI Executive Committee. Ambassador Pham Anh Tuan stated that this was his second visit to Karachi and also his second interaction at KCCI, which reflected the importance attached by the Vietnamese Embassy to strengthening engagement with Pakistan’s business community, particularly through KCCI which plays a pivotal role in promoting bilateral economic cooperation. Highlighting Vietnam’s economic progress, the Ambassador noted that Vietnam remains one of Asia’s fastest-growing economies. He said that Pakistan and Vietnam enjoy longstanding friendly relations encompassing political, economic and cultural cooperation. Referring to bilateral trade, he noted that trade volume between the two countries stood at approximately US$850 million, which, despite remaining stable over recent years, still falls significantly short of its actual potential. The Ambassador further informed that both countries have initiated discussions on a Preferential Trade Agreement (PTA), which would substantially benefit the business communities of both sides. Under the proposed PTA framework, tariffs on more than 100 product lines are expected to be reduced to zero, thereby creating new avenues for bilateral trade expansion and industrial collaboration. He added that negotiations are progressing positively and both governments are actively pursuing the agreement. Emphasizing the need for stronger business-to-business interaction, Ambassador Pham Anh Tuan invited KCCI to send a high-powered trade delegation to Vietnam to explore investment opportunities, joint ventures and commercial partnerships. “Let us work together to further strengthen engagement between the business communities of both countries and take Pakistan-Vietnam relations to new heights through collective and collaborative efforts,” he added. Earlier, President KCCI Muhammad Rehan Hanif, while welcoming the Vietnamese delegation, stated that KCCI attaches immense importance to strengthening economic relations between Pakistan and Vietnam.He informed that KCCI, being the country’s largest chamber with over 30,000 direct members and representation from seven industrial zones of Karachi, serves as the principal voice of Pakistan’s business and industrial community. Karachi contributes over 65 percent revenue to the national exchequer and accounts for more than 52 percent of Pakistan’s exports, making it the country’s foremost industrial and commercial hub. Muhammad Rehan Hanif observed that Pakistan and Vietnam enjoy cordial bilateral relations founded on mutual respect, cooperation and shared aspirations for economic prosperity. However, despite encouraging progress in bilateral trade relations over the years, the existing trade volume remains far below the true potential available to both economies. He noted that Vietnam has emerged as a remarkable success story in Asia through rapid industrialization, export-led growth, manufacturing excellence and economic reforms, while Pakistan offers tremendous opportunities in textiles, agriculture, pharmaceuticals, leather products, sports goods, surgical instruments, information technology, food processing and several other sectors. President KCCI emphasized that enhanced interaction between the business communities of both countries could open new avenues for trade, investment, technology transfer, industrial collaboration and joint ventures. He appreciated the efforts of the Vietnam Trade Mission in facilitating closer business-to-business connectivity and reaffirmed KCCI’s commitment to promoting stronger international trade relations and exploring new global markets for Pakistani businesses.

JazzCash Crosses 60 Million Registered Customers, Accelerates Pakistan's Shift to a Cashless Economy
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JazzCash Crosses 60 Million Registered Customers, Accelerates Pakistan’s Shift to a Cashless Economy

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Karachi: JazzCash, Pakistan’s leading digital financial services provider and a subsidiary of VEON Ltd. (Nasdaq: VEON), has crossed 60 million registered customers, processing PKR 16.8 trillion (approximately USD 59.7 billion) in Gross Transaction Value in the twelve month period ending March 31, 2026, up 56% year-on-year, as demand for digital payments, lending, and disbursement services continued to accelerate The rapid expansion in transaction value was driven by a 47.3% year-on-year jump in twelve-month transaction volume and a 35.8% rise in the average number of transactions per user in Q1 2026, reflecting that existing users are transacting more frequently and across a broader range of services. The platform added ten million registered customers during the last twelve months, reaching 60 million by the end of March 2026, with 29.2 million customers active during Q1 2026. Transaction growth is anchored in a deepening merchant network and a sustained shift to digital point-of-sale. Earlier this year, JazzCash celebrated the onboarding of its one millionth Raast QR-enabled merchant, establishing Pakistan’s largest digital payment acceptance network across corner shops, micro-entrepreneurs, and retailers. The milestone advances the national cashless economy agenda championed by Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and the State Bank of Pakistan to promote digital financial inclusion and economic transparency. Murtaza Ali, CEO of JazzCash, said: “The State Bank of Pakistan’s progressive regulatory environment continues to open new frontiers for digital financial services. Building on our payments and lending infrastructure, JazzCash aims to bridge Pakistan’s protection gap through its insurtech vertical, introduce asset fractionalization to bring high-value investments within reach of Pakistanis, and democratize access to stock markets and digital assets. We are also deepening our cross-border remittance capabilities, expanding JazzCash’s regional footprint in the Gulf to make it faster and more convenient for Pakistani nationals abroad to send money home directly to JazzCash wallets.” Across payments, disbursements, and government services, JazzCash’s role as a critical financial infrastructure partner continued to deepen in Q1 2026. QR adoption spread across SMEs and everyday retail, with digital transaction records enabling merchants to build verifiable business histories and access formal credit. Enterprise customers processed payroll through JazzCash at significantly higher volumes, while government welfare transfers reached beneficiaries faster and more reliably through the platform. Federal and provincial bodies also increasingly utilized JazzCash to collect citizen payments, including traffic challans, motorway tolls, and national identification fees, reflecting the accelerating shift toward cashless government services across Pakistan. Digital lending continued to scale. JazzCash enabled the issuance of 202,000 average loans per day in Q1 2026, extending formal credit to individuals and SMEs, including women-led enterprises, that have historically operated outside formal financial channels’.

Engro Terminals Highlight Critical Role in Pakistan’s Energy Security, Trade and Industrial Growth
Pakistan

Engro Terminals Highlight Critical Role in Pakistan’s Energy Security, Trade and Industrial Growth

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Karachi, May 13, 2026: Engro Vopak Terminal Limited (EVTL) and Engro Elengy Terminal Limited (EETL) hosted an industry-wide event in Karachi, bringing together key stakeholders from Pakistan’s terminals and maritime ecosystem to recognize the role of critical terminal infrastructure in supporting national economic progress, energy security and everyday life across the country. The event was attended by Federal Minister for Maritime Affairs Muhammad Junaid Anwar Chaudhry and Chairman Port Qasim Authority (PQA), Rear Admiral (R) Syed Moazzam Ilyas, along with other stakeholders and colleagues from across Engro. Speaking at the event, the Federal Minister for Maritime Affairs said, “Pakistan’s maritime progress is built on a strong partnership between the Ministry of Maritime Affairs, PQA, and Engro working as one ecosystem. The talent and capability within our country is immense – and evident in the seamless operations we see every day. Scaling such investments is vital for long-term national growth, instead of diverting capital into external markets. Pakistan is our home, and it continues to offer real opportunity.” Pakistan’s economy remains deeply dependent on maritime trade, with nearly 90% of the country’s trade moving through sea routes. Against this backdrop, efficient and safe terminal operations play a central role in ensuring uninterrupted movement of energy, LNG, LPG, chemicals and industrial inputs that keep industries running, businesses open and households supplied. Through conducive policies and a progressive approach, the Ministry of Maritime Affairs continues to enable foreign investment and support future growth in the sector. At the same time, PQA has remained a reliable partner in ensuring Pakistan’s energy and trade hub operates with safety and operational excellence. With the continued guidance and support of both authorities, Engro’s terminal businesses have focused on strengthening infrastructure capability and operational efficiency.Syed Ammar Shah, CEO of Engro’s terminals, said, “We see ourselves as enablers of national progress – with every vessel handled, every cargo delivered, and every safe operation completed, we support businesses, keep industries running, and make everyday life possible across Pakistan.” EETL contributes approximately 15% of Pakistan’s daily gas requirements and has enabled around USD 5 billion in savings through more efficient power generation. EVTL, meanwhile, serves almost 50% of imported gas demand, helping ensure that energy continues to move from port to pipeline to people. Beyond energy, EVTL handles chemicals that serve as building blocks for key sectors of Pakistan’s economy, including textiles, construction, infrastructure development and agriculture. The company’s teams safely handle flammable, toxic, cryogenic and corrosive products every day, forming a critical link in Pakistan’s industrial supply chain while contributing annual savings of up to USD 500 million for the country. The event underscored that Engro’s terminals are not only strategic infrastructure assets, but also key enablers of industrial productivity, energy reliability and economic continuity. From supporting power generation and industrial production to enabling household energy supply and agricultural inputs, Engro’s terminal operations remain closely linked with everyday life across Pakistan.

Pakistan IPR Losses Hit Rs. 860 Billion as OICCI Warns of Growing Threat to Foreign Investment
Pakistan

Pakistan IPR Losses Hit Rs. 860 Billion as OICCI Warns of Growing Threat to Foreign Investment

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Pakistan IPR Losses are now estimated at a staggering Rs. 860 billion annually, according to the latest survey released by the Overseas Investors Chamber of Commerce and Industry. The findings have triggered serious concerns within the business community as intellectual property violations continue to damage investor confidence, tax collection, and industrial growth across the country. The survey was unveiled during the visit of Nauman Aslam to the Chamber and paints a troubling picture of Pakistan’s intellectual property enforcement system. The report covered eight major sectors and revealed that trademark infringement remains the most widespread form of IP violation in Pakistan. Businesses participating in the survey warned that weak enforcement mechanisms, lengthy legal battles, and poor coordination among state institutions are allowing counterfeit markets to flourish unchecked. OICCI Survey Exposes Massive Pakistan IPR Losses According to the survey, six out of every 10 OICCI member companies believe intellectual property rights in Pakistan are only partially protected under existing laws. Many companies stated that legal safeguards exist on paper, but implementation remains weak and inconsistent. The report further revealed that most intellectual property disputes take more than three years to resolve. In many cases, businesses struggle to receive timely judgments, while enforcement actions rarely succeed during the early stages of litigation. This prolonged legal uncertainty is becoming a major obstacle for multinational companies operating in Pakistan. Investors fear that brands, patented products, and innovative technologies remain vulnerable to counterfeiting and unauthorized duplication. Trademark Violations Becoming a Serious Economic Threat One of the most alarming findings in the report is the growing scale of trademark violations in Pakistan. Fake consumer products, copied packaging, and counterfeit goods are increasingly appearing across multiple industries, creating financial losses for legitimate businesses and reducing government tax revenues. The survey indicates that Pakistan IPR Losses are not only hurting corporations but are also damaging the broader economy by discouraging innovation and limiting foreign direct investment. Businesses also expressed disappointment over the limited operational support provided by institutions such as Customs, Police, and the Federal Investigation Agency. Industry experts believe that weak border monitoring and poor market surveillance are enabling counterfeit products to enter supply chains more easily than ever before. IPO-Pakistan Calls for Urgent Institutional Reforms Speaking at the launch ceremony, Nauman Aslam stressed that intellectual property protection is now directly linked to Pakistan’s economic future. He stated that stronger institutions, better coordination among agencies, and improved enforcement systems are essential to closing the widening gap in intellectual property protection. According to Aslam, IPO-Pakistan is committed to improving service delivery and strengthening the country’s intellectual property ecosystem to position Pakistan as a safer destination for innovation and international business. The survey also recommends several urgent reforms, including: • Legal reforms aligned with TRIPS and WIPO standards• Creation of IP watch-lists at border crossings• Intelligence-led crackdowns in high-risk sectors• Faster dispute resolution systems• Improved coordination among enforcement agencies Foreign Investors Demand Stronger Protection M. Abdul Aleem said the findings should serve as a wake-up call for policymakers and regulators. He noted that foreign investors prefer markets where their brands, innovations, and commercial assets are properly protected. The reported Rs. 860 billion annual loss, he warned, is too large to ignore and requires immediate government attention. Aleem added that multinational companies want predictable legal systems where disputes can be resolved within a reasonable timeframe instead of dragging on for years. Pakistan IPR Losses Could Hurt Future Investment Climate The latest survey arrives at a critical time when Pakistan is attempting to attract fresh foreign investment and strengthen industrial growth. Business leaders warn that without stronger intellectual property enforcement, Pakistan risks losing investor confidence to competing regional markets offering safer and more transparent regulatory environments. The OICCI expressed hope that the survey findings will help policymakers design practical reforms capable of creating a more secure, innovation-friendly, and investment-driven economy. As Pakistan pushes for economic recovery and export-led growth, experts believe that protecting intellectual property rights may soon become one of the country’s most urgent economic priorities.

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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