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SBP Go Cashless Campaign Records PKR 34 Billion Digital Transactions During Eid-ul-Azha 2026
Pakistan

SBP Go Cashless Campaign Records PKR 34 Billion Digital Transactions During Eid-ul-Azha 2026

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The SBP Go Cashless Campaign has delivered a remarkable breakthrough in Pakistan’s digital banking landscape, transforming the way millions of people buy and sell sacrificial animals during Eid-ul-Azha. The State Bank of Pakistan (SBP) announced that more than 480,000 digital transactions worth over PKR 34 billion were successfully processed during Eid-ul-Azha 2026. The achievement marks one of the largest digital payment drives ever conducted in Pakistan’s traditionally cash-dominated cattle market sector. The results highlight a major shift in consumer behavior as buyers, sellers, transporters, and service providers increasingly embrace digital financial services. SBP Go Cashless Campaign Expanded Across Pakistan The scale of the initiative expanded dramatically this year. After covering 54 cattle markets in 2025, the campaign reached 123 cattle markets nationwide in 2026, more than doubling its footprint. To support the initiative, 22 commercial banks established dedicated camps and kiosks inside cattle markets. These facilities enabled merchants and customers to conduct secure digital transactions without relying heavily on physical cash. Banks also carried out real-time biometric verification within the markets, allowing livestock sellers and related service providers to quickly join digital payment platforms and receive QR codes for instant payments. This strategy eliminated many traditional barriers that previously discouraged merchants from adopting digital banking services. PKR 34 Billion Digital Payment Surge Signals Changing Consumer Habits The most striking outcome of the campaign was the extraordinary growth in transaction volume and value. Compared with 2025, transaction numbers increased more than seven times, rising from approximately 65,000 transactions to over 481,000 transactions in 2026. Similarly, the total value of digital payments jumped from PKR 4.6 billion last year to more than PKR 34 billion this year. This explosive growth demonstrates that consumers are becoming increasingly comfortable with mobile banking, QR code payments, and digital financial solutions, even in large seasonal marketplaces traditionally dominated by cash. How Banks Brought Digital Banking Directly to Cattle Markets A major factor behind the campaign’s success was the deployment of mobile banking infrastructure directly inside livestock markets. Mobile Banking Vans equipped with ATMs, cash counters, and Cash Deposit Machines (CDMs) were stationed in selected markets to provide on-site banking services. Merchants were able to deposit excess cash directly into the banking system without leaving the market. This reduced cash circulation while encouraging greater integration into Pakistan’s formal financial sector. Meanwhile, dedicated SBP teams remained present around the clock to assist banks, address operational challenges, and ensure uninterrupted service delivery throughout the campaign period. SBP Go Cashless Campaign Opens New Doors for Financial Inclusion Beyond transaction growth, the campaign also contributed significantly to financial inclusion. Approximately 12,500 new bank accounts were opened for cattle farmers, traders, transporters, and other related service providers during the campaign. For many participants, this represented their first interaction with formal banking services. The initiative effectively connected thousands of previously underserved individuals to Pakistan’s digital financial ecosystem, creating new opportunities for secure payments, savings, and future access to financial products. Temporary Transaction Limit Increase Boosted High-Value Deals Recognizing the large value of livestock transactions during Eid-ul-Azha, SBP temporarily enhanced digital transaction limits between May 14 and June 5, 2026. The move enabled buyers and sellers to complete high-value animal purchases seamlessly through digital channels without facing payment restrictions. Combined with an extensive nationwide awareness campaign across television, radio, print media, social media, and banking networks, the policy helped drive widespread adoption and confidence in digital payment systems. A Turning Point for Pakistan’s Cashless Economy The success of the SBP Go Cashless Campaign represents more than just impressive transaction numbers. It signals a growing public willingness to embrace digital payments in sectors that have historically depended almost entirely on cash. By facilitating over PKR 34 billion in transactions, onboarding thousands of new users, and expanding digital payment acceptance across 123 cattle markets, SBP has demonstrated that large-scale digital transformation is possible even in Pakistan’s most traditional marketplaces. As digital adoption continues to accelerate, the campaign may serve as a blueprint for future efforts aimed at building a more efficient, transparent, and inclusive cashless economy across Pakistan.

Zong 5G Sweeps Pakistan Digital Awards - Recognized for Marketing Excellence and Pakistan’s First Autonomous Network Innovation
Pakistan

Zong 5G Sweeps Pakistan Digital Awards – Recognized for Marketing Excellence and Pakistan’s First Autonomous Network Innovation

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Karachi – June 05, 2026: Zong 5G, Pakistan’s leading technology service enterprise, has earned national recognition through a remarkable double victory at one of the most prestigious industry platforms of the country. The company secured a Pakistan Digital Award for the Best Social Media Campaign (Meta): My Zong App and a Made in Pakistan Tech Excellence Award for its groundbreaking Self-Intelligent RAN Optimization Platform. The dual achievement reflects Zong 5G’s commitment to its strategic pillars of delivering ultimate customer experience, expanding diversified digital products and services, and accelerating AI enablement across its operations and network ecosystem. It further reinforces the company’s goal of building a Digital Pakistan through next-generation technologies that create meaningful value for consumers, businesses, and communities. At the Pakistan Digital Awards, Zong 5G’s My Zong App campaign was recognized as a standout digital marketing initiative, demonstrating the company’s ability to connect with customers through innovative and customer-centric experiences. Designed to address the evolving connectivity needs of modern Pakistani families and social circles, the campaign strengthened customer engagement while reinforcing Zong 5G’s position as a trusted partner in Pakistan’s increasingly digital lifestyle. Commenting on the achievement, Sajid Munir, Head of Marketing, Zong 5G, said: “At Zong 5G, we are leveraging 5G, AI, and emerging technologies to create intelligent and immersive experiences that meet the evolving needs of our customers. The My Zong App embodies this vision, and the campaign reiterates how it serves as a comprehensive platform that delivers a seamless, personalized, and convenient experience through a single touchpoint. This recognition reflects our commitment to innovation and customer-centricity as we continue to shape a smarter, more connected, and technology-driven future.” Further strengthening its reputation as a technology service enterprise, Zong 5G was also honored by receiving the Made in Pakistan Tech Excellence Awards for its Self-Intelligent RAN Optimization Platform; Pakistan’s first Level 4 autonomous closed-loop network optimization system deployed on a live commercial network. Developed entirely in-house by Zong engineers within six months, this AI-powered platform represents a major milestone in localized technology, demonstrating the nation’s capacity for world-class technology innovation. The solution leverages advanced AI and automation to proactively resolve network congestion, reducing resolution times by over 90%; from days to mere minutes, while delivering up to an 18% improvement in peak-hour downlink throughput. Commenting on the recognition, Executive Director of IT at Zong, Ali Waqas said: “Winning recognition for both, a customer-focused initiative and a pioneering AI-powered network platform, demonstrates the strength of our integrated approach to digital transformation. As we continue to advance our 5G journey, we remain committed to harnessing AI, automation, and next-generation technologies to deliver exceptional experiences, strengthen Pakistan’s digital ecosystem, and contribute meaningfully to the country’s digital transformation agenda.” The recognition of both My Zong App and the Self-Intelligent RAN Optimization Platform highlights Zong 5G’s unique ability to innovate across the entire digital value chain; from enhancing customer experiences to building intelligent network infrastructure. Together, these achievements underscore the company’s ongoing role in accelerating Digital Pakistan through technology leadership, AI-driven innovation, and future-ready business solutions.

Saquib Fayyaz Magoon of BMPP Calls for Industry- and Export-Friendly Budget
Business

Saquib Fayyaz Magoon of BMPP Calls for Industry- and Export-Friendly Budget

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KARACHI: The Businessmen Panel Progressive (BMPP) has urged the government to prioritize export growth, industrial development, and expansion of the tax base in the upcoming federal budget, while reducing the cost of doing business by lowering the General Sales Tax (GST) to 15 percent and abolishing the Super Tax. Addressing a press conference at the Karachi Press Club, BMPP Chairman and Senior Vice President of Federation of Pakistan Chambers of Commerce and Industry, Saquib Fayyaz Magoon, said the forthcoming budget should focus on export-led growth, tax reforms, and relief for the manufacturing sector. He stressed that reducing the cost of doing business and broadening the tax net were essential, while imposing additional taxes on already compliant sectors was counterproductive. FPCCI Vice Presidents Amanullah Paracha and Asif Sakhi, former Vice President Shabbir Mansha Churra, and other business leaders were also present. Magoon said that if the government could not completely abolish the Super Tax, it should at least exempt the manufacturing sector to encourage investment and provide relief to industries. He maintained that burdening any single sector with additional taxes was not a sound policy and that all sectors should be treated equally. He called for the restoration of the Fixed Tax Regime and measures to facilitate the inclusion of new taxpayers into the tax net. To simplify compliance, he proposed the introduction of a single-page tax return form that would be easier for businesses and small traders to understand and file. Highlighting challenges facing the agricultural sector, Magoon demanded the withdrawal of taxes on cottonseed and special relief measures for the oilcake and cottonseed sectors. He also called for significant reductions in taxes on industrial raw materials to lower production costs and improve the competitiveness of Pakistani products in international markets, ultimately boosting exports. He said FPCCI’s budget proposals place exports at the center of economic policy, arguing that increasing exports is essential for addressing Pakistan’s economic challenges. He urged the government to consult exporters and the business community on export-related policies and matters concerning the Final Tax Regime. Expressing concerns over the proposed tax collection target of Rs15.2 trillion for the next fiscal year, Magoon described it as unrealistic and disconnected from economic realities. He noted that revenue targets had also been set unrealistically high in the previous fiscal year and were subsequently revised downward. “Merely setting ambitious tax targets serves little purpose,” he said, adding that revenue goals should be based on the actual capacity of the economy and prevailing business activity. He stressed that tax collection targets should be determined in consultation with exporters and relevant stakeholders. Magoon further stated that growth targets for different sectors should also be set through consultations with industry representatives and stakeholders. According to him, unilateral policymaking is ineffective and creates uncertainty within the business community. Calling for extensive tax relief for the chemical industry, he said the sector has significant potential to contribute to industrial growth and exports. He also urged the government to review tax incentives available in the former FATA and PATA regions, ensuring that such concessions are aligned with local demand-and-supply conditions and economic realities to prevent misuse and maintain fair market competition. Reiterating his concerns over the proposed Rs15.2 trillion tax target, Magoon said such goals do not reflect ground realities and have historically required downward revisions. He also called for tax and growth targets to be formulated through stakeholder consultations rather than unilateral decisions. Among other proposals, he recommended exempting individuals earning up to Rs100,000 per month from income tax and increasing the minimum wage by 15 percent in view of rising inflation. He also advocated special tax incentives for the chemical industry and a comprehensive review of tax concessions granted to FATA and PATA. Speaking on the occasion, Shabbir Mansha Churra said the federal budget should focus on economic growth rather than revenue targets alone. Asif Sakhi emphasized the need to make trade bodies partners in policy implementation, while Amanullah Paracha stressed that economic growth would remain elusive without broadening the tax base and simplifying the tax system to make it more business-friendly and less intimidating.

KSE-100 Index Decline Deepens as Investors Dump Banking and Energy Stocks
Pakistan

KSE-100 Index Decline Deepens as Investors Dump Banking and Energy Stocks

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KSE-100 Index Decline extended into Friday’s trading session as investors rushed to secure profits from heavyweight banking and energy stocks, dragging the benchmark lower despite impressive gains in several sectors. The Pakistan Stock Exchange witnessed a highly volatile session that reflected growing caution among investors. While selected stocks delivered double-digit gains, selling pressure in major index-heavy companies outweighed positive momentum elsewhere. Out of the 100 companies in the index, 45 posted gains, 54 recorded losses, and one remained unchanged, indicating a slightly negative market breadth. Banking and Energy Giants Trigger Market Sell-Off The primary reason behind the latest KSE-100 Index Decline was heavy profit-taking in banking and oil exploration stocks. Among the biggest contributors to the market’s fall were: Banking sector pressure: United Bank Limited (UBL), MCB Bank, and Meezan Bank significantly weighed on the benchmark as investors booked profits following recent rallies. Oil and gas exploration weakness: Oil & Gas Development Company (OGDC) and Pakistan Petroleum Limited (PPL) emerged among the largest drags on the index. UBL MCB Bank Meezan Bank OGDC PPL PSX and Textile Stocks Offer Relief While large-cap stocks struggled, several companies delivered impressive performances. Pakistan Stock Exchange (PSX) emerged as one of the strongest gainers, rising 10 percent. Other notable performers included PGLC, KTML, NPL, and GAL. PSX +10% PGLC KTML NPL GAL Sector-wise support came from investment banks and securities companies, automobile assemblers, the property sector, textile composite companies, and auto parts manufacturers. Broader Market Remains Active Despite KSE-100 Index Decline Although the benchmark index closed in negative territory, broader market activity remained robust. The All-Share Index declined by 297.61 points to close at 102,885.53 points. Interestingly, 248 companies closed higher compared to 205 that declined, showing that investor interest remained active beyond the benchmark stocks. Most Active Stocks Capture Investor Attention TPL Properties (TPLP), TPL Corp (TPL), and PACE attracted the highest trading volumes, each recording more than 41 million shares traded. Other heavily traded stocks included BECO, HASCOLNC, PASLNC, WorldCall Telecom (WTL), WAVESAPP, Bank of Punjab (BOP), and UNITY Foods. Middle East Developments Keep Investors on Edge Market participants remained closely focused on developments in the Middle East, particularly their potential impact on global oil prices and investor risk appetite. Analysts believe concerns surrounding energy markets and geopolitical risks may continue influencing sentiment in the near term, especially for oil-related companies listed on the Pakistan Stock Exchange. KSE-100 Index Still Shows Strong Fiscal-Year Performance FY gain (points) +44,852 FY gain (%) +35.70% Calendar-year change −3,575 (−2.05%) Is the KSE-100 Index Decline Temporary? The latest KSE-100 Index Decline appears largely driven by profit-taking rather than a fundamental deterioration in market conditions. Investors continue to show interest in selective sectors, while trading volumes remain healthy. The market’s next direction will likely depend on earnings expectations, interest rate outlook, foreign investor activity, and geopolitical developments affecting global energy markets. For now, investors remain cautious, but the strong fiscal-year performance suggests the broader bullish trend remains intact despite short-term volatility.

Govt to Release Rs4,000 Fuel Subsidy in June for Motorcyclists, Transporters and Farmers
Pakistan

Govt to Release Rs4,000 Fuel Subsidy in June for Motorcyclists, Transporters and Farmers

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The federal government has decided to release the fifth and sixth installments of its Petrol Subsidy Scheme during June 2026, providing financial relief to motorcyclists, public transport operators, vehicle owners, and farmers affected by rising fuel prices. The decision was taken during a review meeting chaired by Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar in Islamabad. Beneficiaries to Receive Rs4,000 According to an official statement, eligible beneficiaries will receive a combined payment of Rs4,000 under the fifth and sixth installments of the subsidy programme. The government launched the scheme to reduce the financial burden caused by higher fuel prices linked to regional tensions and war-related disruptions. Officials informed the meeting that four installments had already been successfully distributed over the past two months through a biweekly payment mechanism. Government Reviews Implementation Progress The meeting reviewed the implementation of the fuel subsidy programme, including measures related to transparency, accountability, and coordination with provincial governments. Officials discussed ways to ensure that financial assistance reaches deserving beneficiaries efficiently and without delays. Ishaq Dar Directs Stronger Monitoring Expressing satisfaction with the progress of the scheme, Ishaq Dar directed the relevant authorities to maintain close coordination and strengthen monitoring mechanisms. He emphasized the need to ensure that the maximum benefits reach the intended recipients and that the programme continues to operate transparently. The meeting was attended by Special Assistant Tariq Bajwa, the Secretary Petroleum, chief secretaries of all provinces, and other senior government officials. Relief for Vulnerable Groups The Petrol Subsidy Scheme aims to provide targeted financial support to vulnerable segments of society facing continued pressure from rising fuel costs. The programme primarily focuses on assisting motorcyclists, public transport operators, vehicle owners, and farmers, who are among the groups most affected by increasing petroleum prices. The release of the latest installments is expected to provide additional relief to thousands of beneficiaries across the country during June.

PM Shehbaz Sharif Calls for Collective Climate Action on World Environment Day
Pakistan

PM Shehbaz Sharif Calls for Collective Climate Action on World Environment Day

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On the occasion of World Environment Day, Pakistan reaffirmed its commitment to environmental protection and joined the global community in promoting efforts to safeguard the planet for future generations. In a message marking the day, the PM Shehbaz Sharif emphasized that environmental preservation is a shared global responsibility that requires collective action, effective international cooperation, and sustained commitment to ensure a climate-resilient and environmentally sustainable future. Climate Change Requires Urgent Global Response Highlighting this year’s theme, “Climate Action,” the PM said the growing environmental challenges facing humanity demand urgent and coordinated global action. He noted that climate change is no longer a distant threat but a reality affecting millions of people worldwide. The impacts of climate change are visible through devastating floods, prolonged droughts, extreme heatwaves, melting glaciers, water shortages, and worsening air pollution. He stressed that comprehensive strategies supported by international cooperation are essential to address these challenges effectively. Pakistan Among the Most Climate-Vulnerable Countries PM pointed out that Pakistan remains one of the countries most vulnerable to climate change despite contributing only a minimal share to global environmental degradation. He said environmental challenges continue to impose significant human and economic costs on the country. Therefore, cooperation at individual, national, and international levels is critical to mitigating the effects of climate change and environmental degradation. Government Pursuing Green Development Policies PM Shehbaz Sharif reaffirmed the government’s commitment to promoting renewable energy and sustainable development initiatives. He said Pakistan is actively working to restore forests, conserve biodiversity, improve water resource management, reduce pollution, promote climate-smart agriculture, and encourage the growth of green industries. The government is also implementing policies aimed at restoring natural ecosystems and strengthening environmental sustainability across the country. Youth Have a Key Role in Building a Greener Pakistan The PM highlighted the importance of Pakistan’s youth in tackling environmental challenges and building a more sustainable future. He said the energy, creativity, and innovation of young people will play a crucial role in creating a greener, safer, and climate-resilient Pakistan. By providing access to education, technology, and opportunities, the country can strengthen environmental awareness and foster long-term sustainable development, he added. Call for National Responsibility Sharif urged citizens, institutions, farmers, businesses, and agricultural stakeholders to treat environmental protection and climate resilience as a national responsibility. He called on the public to adopt environmentally responsible lifestyles and prioritize the conservation of water and energy resources, afforestation efforts, and wildlife protection. He expressed hope that today’s efforts would help secure a sustainable future and a better quality of life for generations to come.

Sindh Govt, US Delegation Discuss Security Cooperation in High-Level Virtual Meeting
Pakistan

Sindh Govt, US Delegation Discuss Security Cooperation in High-Level Virtual Meeting

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The Sindh government, the Home Department, and a US delegation held a high-level virtual meeting to discuss law and order, public safety, and measures to strengthen the operational capacity of the Sindh Police. The meeting brought together Additional Chief Secretary Home Sindh Muhammad Iqbal Memon, Inspector General of Police Sindh Javed Alam Odho, Special Secretary Home Saeed Sheikh, DIG Faizullah Korejo, and Bilal Sheikh. Representatives of the US government and the International Narcotics and Law Enforcement Affairs (INL) bureau also joined the session virtually. Longstanding Partnership Appreciated Participants appreciated the longstanding partnership between the Sindh government, Sindh Police, and the United States in supporting law enforcement and public safety initiatives. The meeting reviewed ongoing cooperation and discussed ways to further strengthen institutional capacity and policing capabilities across the province. Focus on Security Challenges in Riverine Areas Officials discussed security challenges in the riverine (Katcha) areas of Sindh and reviewed measures against criminal networks operating in those regions. The participants stressed the importance of modern policing techniques, improved operational capabilities, and enhanced mobility for law enforcement agencies to respond effectively to emerging security threats. Strengthening Institutions and Capacity Building Additional Chief Secretary Home Muhammad Iqbal Memon said assistance programmes are not limited to providing resources but also focus on institutional strengthening and capacity building. He emphasized the need to equip law enforcement agencies with the tools, training, and expertise required to address modern security challenges. Commitment to Public Safety and Rule of Law The meeting reaffirmed a shared commitment to public safety, the rule of law, and transparent policing practices. IG Sindh Javed Alam Odho noted that international cooperation remains essential in addressing evolving security threats and ensuring effective law enforcement. Agreement to Enhance Cooperation Participants agreed to further strengthen collaboration between the Sindh Police, the Home Department, and international partners. The meeting concluded with participants expressing confidence that continued cooperation would contribute to improved security, greater public trust, and a more stable law and order environment across Sindh.

Saudi-Pak Business Council show interest in motorway infrastructure investment
Pakistan

Saudi-Pak Business Council show interest in motorway infrastructure investment

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ISLAMABAD: Chairman of the Saudi-Pak Business Council, Prince Mansour Bin Muhammad Al Saud, on Friday expressed keen interest in exploring investment opportunities in Pakistan’s motorway infrastructure during a high-level meeting with Federal Minister for Communications Abdul Aleem Khan. Saudi-Pak Business Council show interest in motorway infrastructure investment. The meeting discussed matters of mutual interest and the strategic promotion of bilateral relations including investment in Motorways of Pakistan, said a press release. During the meeting, Abdul Aleem Khan extended invitation to the Saudi Pak Business Council to invest in Pakistan’s rapidly growing infrastructure, specifically highlighting the construction of new Motorways and key transport networks currently underway across the country. Focusing on specific ventures ripe for foreign capital, Federal Minister for Communications offered strategic partnerships in the M-6 Sukkur-Hyderabad, M-10 Karachi Port and M-13 Kharian-Rawalpindi Motorway Projects. He emphasized that these particular routes are highly viable, commercially lucrative and represent prime investment opportunities for the Saudi Business Community due to their significant commercial importance. Chairman Saudi Pakistan Business Council Prince Mansour bin Muhammad Al Saud expressed strong interest on behalf of the Saudi Business Council to explore partnership and investment opportunities in these specific Motorway Projects, affirming that the Council is well-positioned to collaborate extensively in Pakistan’s Communications and infrastructure sectors. During the dialogue, Abdul Aleem Khan assured the delegation that Saudi Investors would be provided with highly viable and profitable investment models, noting that the country’s expanding road network plays a pivotal role in boosting regional trade activities. He reiterated that Pakistan and Saudi Arabia share long-standing, time-tested and deep-rooted fraternal ties, adding that every Pakistani shares a profound spiritual and emotional bond with the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia which has consistently demonstrated goodwill towards Pakistan. Concluding the meeting, Chairman Saudi Pakistan Business Council Prince Mansour bin Muhammad Al Saud assured the Federal Minister for Communications Abdul Aleem Khan of full cooperation through his Forum and expressed great optimism regarding the outcomes of his visit to Pakistan. Abdul Aleem Khan reiterated that he highly valued Saudi Arabia’s collaboration in major national projects, emphasizing that the platform of the Saudi Pakistan Business Council will continue to strengthen and solidify the bilateral and economic ties between the two brotherly nations. The Federal Secretary for Communications and high raking officers from both sides where also present in the meeting.

Unsafe Food Causes 866 Million Illnesses Annually, WHO Warns
Health

Unsafe Food Causes 866 Million Illnesses Annually, WHO Warns

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Children under the age of five face nearly three times the risk of illness from unsafe food compared to older children and adults, according to new estimates released by the World Health Organization. Although children under five make up only 9% of the world’s population, they account for almost one-third of all foodborne disease cases. Diarrhoeal diseases remain among the biggest threats and can be fatal for young children. The WHO also warned that exposure to harmful chemicals such as methylmercury and lead through food can damage developing brains and cause lifelong neurological and developmental problems. Unsafe Food Linked to 866 Million Illnesses and 1.5 Million Deaths According to the new estimates, unsafe food causes around 866 million illnesses and 1.5 million deaths worldwide every year. The health agency said many of these illnesses and deaths could be prevented through improved water quality, better sanitation and hygiene, safer food handling practices, food pasteurization, and better access to healthcare. While the global burden of foodborne diseases has declined since 2000, major regional disparities continue to exist. The highest burden remains concentrated in Africa and Southeast Asia. Chemical Contamination Responsible for Most Deaths Biological hazards such as bacteria, viruses, and parasites caused most foodborne illnesses in 2021, accounting for approximately 860 million cases. However, chemical contamination caused a disproportionate number of deaths. WHO estimates show that chemical hazards were responsible for 73% of all deaths linked to contaminated food. Among these chemical hazards, inorganic arsenic accounted for 42% of deaths, while lead contributed 31%. These substances significantly increase the risk of cardiovascular diseases and cancer. WHO also highlighted the dangers of methylmercury exposure, which can severely affect brain development in children. Economic Losses Reach Hundreds of Billions of Dollars The report found that foodborne diseases caused an estimated $310 billion in lost productivity in 2021 due to illness-related absences from work. When adjusted for purchasing power and cost-of-living differences across countries, the economic impact increased to approximately $647 billion. WHO Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus said the new findings reveal the enormous human and economic costs of unsafe food and provide countries with critical data to identify areas of greatest concern. WHO Expands Global Food Safety Assessment The latest WHO analysis examined 42 major foodborne hazards across 194 countries between 2000 and 2021. The study included bacteria, viruses, parasites, and chemical contaminants. New hazards assessed in the report include rotavirus, metals, and the parasite Chagas disease. The organization stressed that contaminants such as lead, arsenic, and methylmercury often enter the food chain through environmental pollution and industrial activities. Once contamination occurs, removing these substances from food becomes difficult. WHO urged governments to strengthen environmental regulations, improve agricultural practices, and enforce stricter industrial controls to prevent contamination at its source. Africa and Southeast Asia Bear the Greatest Burden The report highlighted significant inequalities in food safety outcomes worldwide. WHO estimates show that Africa and Southeast Asia account for nearly three-quarters of all foodborne illnesses and 60% of global deaths linked to contaminated food. People living in low-resource communities, particularly in low- and middle-income countries, continue to face the greatest risks. Climate Change and Antimicrobial Resistance Add New Challenges WHO experts warned that climate change is increasing food contamination risks while antimicrobial resistance is making infections harder to treat. The organization called for a “One Health” approach that integrates human, animal, plant, and environmental health systems to address food safety challenges more effectively. The findings were released ahead of World Food Safety Day on June 7. This year’s theme is “From burden to solutions – safe food everywhere.”

PIA Resumes Direct Islamabad-Beijing Flights from July 3
Pakistan

PIA Resumes Direct Islamabad-Beijing Flights from July 3

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Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) has announced the resumption of its direct flight service between Islamabad and Beijing from July 3. The move restores an important air link between Pakistan and China and strengthens travel connectivity between the two countries. PIA said the route will serve growing demand from students, business travelers, tourists, and families. The airline expects the direct service to provide a faster and more convenient travel option compared to connecting flights. Students and Business Travelers to Benefit The restored route is likely to benefit thousands of Pakistani and Chinese students studying in each other’s countries. Educational institutions and student groups have welcomed the decision, especially ahead of the new academic session. Industry experts believe the direct flights will make travel easier for students, researchers, and academics. They also expect the service to support educational cooperation between Pakistan and China. Business professionals are also expected to benefit from improved connectivity. The direct route will help reduce travel time and support growing commercial ties between the two countries. Tourism Sector Sees Positive Impact The resumption of direct flights is expected to boost tourism as well. Families and tourists planning summer travel will have more flexibility and convenience. Travel agencies and tourism operators have reported strong interest since PIA announced the route’s return. Many travelers have praised the decision, saying it will make travel more affordable and efficient. PIA Reaffirms Commitment to Bilateral Connectivity PIA management said the airline remains committed to strengthening links between Pakistan and China. The national carrier emphasized its role in supporting tourism, trade, education, and cultural exchanges. According to the airline, the restored Islamabad-Beijing service will help increase people-to-people contacts and further strengthen relations between the two countries. Strengthening Pakistan-China Relations The return of the Islamabad-Beijing route marks another step toward improving transportation links between Pakistan and China. The service highlights PIA’s efforts to facilitate travel and support the longstanding friendship and strategic partnership between the two nations.

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