Business

Karachi: The mobility platform inDrive has officially joined the World Economic Forum’s Unicorn Community. By becoming part of this community, inDrive aims to bring the perspective of emerging markets like Pakistan into global discussions on digital equity. Read More: https://theboardroompk.com/pakistan-ethiopia-agree-to-expand-trade-joint-ventures-and-tourism-cooperation/ The platform’s participation will focus on promoting fair access to services and expanding economic opportunities, while challenging algorithmic injustice through its “fairness-first” model. According to inDrive’s founder and CEO, Arsen Tomsky, “Joining the World Economic Forum’s Unicorn Community is a significant milestone for us as we continue to expand our global presence and impact. Our mission has always been to challenge injustice by giving people more control over their choices. We look forward to working with the Forum to contribute to discussions on building more inclusive, transparent, and fair digital economies—especially in fast-growing and underserved markets.” Membership in the World Economic Forum’s community will also support broader economic inclusion and enable the platform to promote non-profit initiatives such as empowering women entrepreneurs, as well as advancing education and digital literacy.

Islamabad: April 20, 2026: Federal Minister for Commerce Jam Kamal Khan and H.E. Dr. Oumer Hussein Oba held a detailed meeting to explore new avenues for strengthening bilateral trade, industrial collaboration, and regional connectivity between Pakistan and Ethiopia, with a particular focus on expanding engagement across African markets. Read More: https://theboardroompk.com/pakistans-first-pkr-3-billion-aaa-rated-green-sukuk-for-telecom-sector-launched/ During the meeting, both sides expressed satisfaction over the growing momentum in Pakistan–Ethiopia relations and emphasized the need to transform this engagement into practical, results-oriented partnerships. The Commerce Minister highlighted that recent bilateral interactions have created a “fresh foundation” to jointly explore not only each other’s markets but also broader opportunities across Africa. The Minister proposed organizing a multi-country business forum in Islamabad, inviting East African nations to witness Pakistan’s industrial capabilities firsthand. He stressed that direct exposure would help reshape global perceptions about Pakistan and unlock new trade and investment partnerships. Highlighting Pakistan’s strengths, the Minister underscored the country’s robust small and medium enterprise (SME) sector, which produces a wide range of goods including home appliances, engineering products, agricultural machinery, and consumer goods. He specifically emphasized the strong potential for cooperation in agriculture, engineering industries, and tractors, noting that Pakistan has developed significant expertise in these sectors which can support mechanization and productivity in African economies. A key area of discussion was the cosmetics and personal care industry, where the Minister noted significant growth in Pakistan over the past four to five years. He proposed joint ventures between Pakistani and Ethiopian firms in cosmetics, perfumes, and related products to tap into rising consumer demand in both regions. Referring to Pakistan’s industrial success stories, the Minister invited the Ethiopian delegation to visit Sialkot, describing it as a unique example of private-sector-led development. He noted that the city’s business community, led by the Sialkot Chamber of Commerce and Industry, has independently built infrastructure including an international airport. Sialkot remains a global hub for sports goods, surgical instruments, leather, and footwear, with exports reaching billions of dollars annually, including to the European Union. On trade logistics, the Minister stressed the importance of improving connectivity and reducing reliance on third-country transshipment hubs such as Jebel Ali Port. He proposed enhancing direct maritime links through feeder vessels to African ports, which could significantly reduce transit time from over 10–12 days to just 2–3 days. He further highlighted Pakistan’s geographic advantage, particularly Karachi, as a gateway for African exports to Central Asia through regional maritime corridors including Djibouti Port. The Federal Minister also highlighted the immense tourism potential in both countries, stating that Ethiopia’s natural beauty and climate are “truly amazing,” while Pakistan remains a “sleeping giant” in tourism. During the discussion, H.E. Dr. Oumer Hussein Oba informed the Minister that a Single Country Exhibition of Ethiopia is planned to be held in Islamabad by the end of this year, following the successful exhibition earlier organized in Ethiopia. The Commerce Minister welcomed the initiative and appreciated the success of the previous exhibition, terming it an important step toward strengthening bilateral trade ties. The Ambassador further shared that Ethiopian Airlines is planning to start direct flights to Lahore, which will significantly enhance business-to-business (B2B) linkages, improve connectivity, and promote cultural exchange between the two countries. The Ethiopian side appreciated Pakistan’s economic progress and acknowledged the country’s skilled human resource base and strong hospitality sector. Dr. Oba emphasized that human capital remains the most critical resource and called for deeper cooperation in education, skills, and institutional development. Both sides agreed that Pakistan and African countries stand at a pivotal moment, where diversification, industrial cooperation—including agriculture, engineering, and tractor manufacturing—tourism promotion, and practical business engagement can unlock significant economic opportunities. They reaffirmed their commitment to enhancing bilateral trade, promoting joint ventures, and developing a long-term, quality-driven economic partnership.

Karachi, Pakistan The Pakistan SADC Chamber of Trade Federation (PSCTF) and the Association of Builders and Developers of Pakistan (ABAD) convened a high-level meeting to discuss strategic collaboration for the upcoming Pak-Africa Trade and Investment Conference 2026, scheduled to be held in Karachi. PSCTF delegation under leadership of Syed Moizuddin Senior Vice President (Pakistan Chapter) and Noor Afsha Baloch President Baluchistan and Women Wing (Pakistan Chapter), Muhammad Shafiq, Sheikh Aqeel, Sadiq Kareem and other members met with Chairman ABAD Hassan Bakshi, Vice Chairman ABAD Tariq Aziz , Chairman SR Ovais Thanvi, Former Vice Chairman A.K. Adia and others met for focusing on strengthening economic ties between Pakistan and African nations, with particular emphasis on trade, infrastructure development, real estate, and investment opportunities. During the session, both parties expressed a shared commitment to fostering sustainable partnerships between Pakistani and African businesses. Discussions highlighted the importance of creating platforms that facilitate B2B engagements, joint ventures, and knowledge exchange in key sectors such as construction, housing, energy, and urban development. Representatives from PSCTF emphasized the growing potential of African markets and underscored the role of the conference in connecting Pakistani exporters, investors, and developers with emerging opportunities across the African continent. ABAD leadership reaffirmed its support in mobilizing Pakistan’s construction and development sector to actively participate in the conference and explore cross-border collaborations. Both organizations agreed to work closely on: Coordinating sector-specific sessions during the conferenceEncouraging participation from industry stakeholdersPromoting investment-friendly policies and partnershipsShowcasing Pakistan’s expertise in construction and infrastructure development The Pak-Africa Trade and Investment Conference 2026 aims to serve as a landmark platform for enhancing bilateral trade, strengthening diplomatic and economic relations, and unlocking new avenues for mutual growth. The meeting concluded with a mutual understanding to establish a joint working group that will oversee planning, coordination, and execution of conference-related activities. About PSCTF:The Pakistan SADC Chamber of Trade Federation is dedicated to promoting trade, economic cooperation, and investment between Pakistan and the Southern African Development Community (SADC) member states. About ABAD:The Association of Builders and Developers of Pakistan is the leading representative body of the country’s real estate and construction sector, playing a pivotal role in shaping housing and infrastructure development.

Islamabad, April 17, 2026: Federal Minister for Commerce Jam Kamal Khan held a detailed meeting with Raimundas Karoblis to discuss strengthening Pakistan–European Union economic relations, with a particular focus on the upcoming Pakistan–EU Business Forum—scheduled to be held on April 28–29, 2026, in Islamabad—and the continued importance of the GSP Plus scheme. Read More: https://theboardroompk.com/why-phevs-not-evs-are-winning-the-first-round-of-electrification-in-emerging-markets/ The meeting underscored that the Pakistan–EU Business Forum will serve as a major platform to deepen trade and investment cooperation. Both sides highlighted that the forum is expected to bring together a large number of participants, including government representatives, business leaders, and institutional stakeholders from Pakistan and across the European Union. It was noted that the event will feature extensive business-to-business (B2B) engagements, with hundreds of meetings planned between Pakistani and European companies. These interactions are aimed at fostering direct partnerships, facilitating investment flows, and identifying new avenues for collaboration across key sectors. The Minister emphasized that the forum comes at a critical time and presents an opportunity for Pakistan to project a strong, business-friendly image globally. He reiterated the government’s commitment to providing full support to ensure the success of the event, including facilitation for international participants and expanding B2B engagement opportunities where required. Both sides also discussed the possibility of making such engagements more regular, transforming the forum into a sustained platform for continuous dialogue between Pakistani and European businesses. The importance of maintaining momentum between forums through structured engagement mechanisms was also highlighted. A key area of discussion remained the European Union’s GSP+ scheme, which continues to play a vital role in supporting Pakistan’s exports to EU markets. European representatives acknowledged Pakistan’s progress and noted that the scheme has significantly contributed to enhancing export opportunities, particularly in sectors such as textiles. The Minister stressed that Pakistan remains committed to fulfilling all requirements under the GSP+ framework and views it as a cornerstone for strengthening bilateral trade. He highlighted that maintaining and optimizing the benefits of GSP+ is essential for sustaining export growth and improving competitiveness in international markets. Discussions also touched upon Pakistan’s ongoing tariff rationalization efforts, with the government working towards reducing duty structures to facilitate imports of raw materials and intermediate goods. European partners welcomed these measures, noting that efficient import policies are crucial for boosting export performance and strengthening industrial supply chains. The meeting further explored opportunities to enhance investor confidence by improving predictability, transparency, and policy consistency. European stakeholders emphasized the importance of a stable and conducive business environment to attract long-term investments. Additionally, the potential for broader regional collaboration was discussed, including the possibility of engaging Gulf-based partners in future initiatives to create trilateral investment opportunities involving Pakistan, the European Union, and the Gulf region. Both sides agreed that Pakistan offers significant potential for European businesses, with a growing market, strategic location, and expanding industrial base. They reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening institutional cooperation, enhancing private-sector linkages, and leveraging upcoming platforms to unlock new economic opportunities. The meeting concluded with a shared resolve to further deepen Pakistan–EU trade and investment relations, maximize the benefits of GSP+, and ensure that the upcoming Business Forum delivers tangible outcomes for businesses on both sides.

Traders and Industrialists Should Repatriate Capital to Improve the National Economy, SM Tanveer Crime Being Controlled Through Modern Policing and Reforms, IG Sindh Javed Alam Odho Business Community Must Be Given a Central Role in Economic Improvement, KATI President Muhammad Ikram Rajput Reduction in Gas and Electricity Tariffs Can Boost Business Activity and Revive the Industrial Sector, Khalid Tawab and Arif Habib KARACHI: Patron-in-Chief of United Buisness Group (UBG) and Korangi Association of Trade and Industry (KATI) S. M. Tanveer stressed the need for coordinated efforts to strengthen Pakistan’s economy, improve the investment climate and restore confidence in the business sector. Read More: https://theboardroompk.com/nbp-appoints-cricket-legend-shahid-afridi-as-sports-consultant/ Speaking at a dinner hosted by prominent industrialist and Chairman of United Business Group Sindh, Khalid Tawab, in honour of Inspector General of Police Sindh Javed Alam Odho and KATI leadership led by President Muhammad Ikram Rajput. SM Tanveer, said the government is fully aware of the tax-related and other problems confronting traders and industrialists and is working to facilitate them. He added that several positive measures are expected in the upcoming budget, which would likely benefit the business community. The event was attended by FPCCI President Atif Ikram Sheikh, UBG President Zubair Tufail, Mian Zahid Hussain, Senator Abdul Haseeb Khan, businessman Arif Habib, Abdul Sammi Khan, Deputy Commissioner Korangi Masood Bhutto, KATI Vice President Syed Talha Ali, Former chairmen KATI Farhan-ur-Rehman, Ehtishamuddin, Zahid saeed, Syed Farukh Mazhar, Rashid Ahmed Siddiqui, Junaid Naqi, Add. DG-FIA Mujahid Akber, DIG Traffic Pir Muhammad Shah, DIG Asim Kaimkhani, Ameen Farooqi, Olympian Islahuddin, Farhan Hanif, Hyderabad Chamber representative Iqbal Hussain Baig, Hamza Tabani, Najmuddin and a large number of traders and industrialists. SM Tanveer said he has been touring the country under the federation’s platform to help formulate a practical strategy for improving the economy. He stated that Pakistan is in safe hands and that everyone must play their part in the country’s progress. “The country today needs unity and solidarity,” he said, adding that just as national cohesion was visible in Iran, Pakistan too needs a similar spirit of collective commitment to achieve economic recovery and prosperity. He urged traders and industrialists to bring their capital back to Pakistan, saying that while their businesses operate in the country and their children study here, they often transfer their wealth abroad, which harms the national economy. “If we truly love our country, we should bring our money back to Pakistan,” he remarked. He said the government is soon introducing economic policies that will encourage business activity and create a more conducive environment for investment. Addressing the gathering, IG Sindh Javed Alam Odho paid rich tribute to the late SM Muneer, calling him his benefactor and saying he would always remember him. He noted that policing systems around the world are changing, and Sindh Police is also undergoing reforms to modernize its operations. He said the use of drone surveillance in the katcha areas has led to significant improvements in law and order. According to him, several dacoits from the katcha areas have surrendered to the authorities, which he credited to an effective police strategy.Odho said the police force faces challenges due to the low educational level of many personnel, making it difficult to match the performance standards of developed countries. He added that better results could be achieved by improving the balance between officers and constables. Referring to his previous posting in Dadu, he said kidnapping incidents were once common there, but through different strategies the police managed to control crime and restore peace. He added that the force is now focusing on Safe City projects, digitization, technology integration and traffic reforms. He said the absence of criminal incidents on the Motorway and Indus Highway during Eid was evidence of the effective use of modern technology. KATI President Muhammad Ikram Rajput said Pakistan is gaining importance at the global level, with major international decisions now increasingly appearing to be made in Islamabad. He said this has also enhanced the value of the Pakistani passport.Rajput praised the efforts of Sindh Police under Javed Alam Odho for eliminating dacoits from the katcha areas, saying the improvement in law and order is commendable. He added that the business community should be given greater opportunities to play an active role in the national economy, as the private sector is vital for economic growth. He described SM Tanveer as a capable and experienced leader who, if given a higher platform, could help make Pakistan an economic “Asian Tiger.” Rajput said it had long been his wish to see himself as KATI president and Javed Alam Odho as IG Sindh, adding that both wishes have now been fulfilled.Prominent businessman Arif Habib said Pakistan’s economy is currently facing challenges, but improvement in the government’s financial account is a positive sign. He added that if gas and electricity tariffs are reduced, business activity could improve significantly and the industrial sector could become active again. He said the business community stands shoulder to shoulder with the government in efforts to stabilize the economy and is ready to extend every possible form of support.Earlier, Khalid Tawab said Pakistan is moving toward development and that several proposals for improving the economy were presented during a meeting with Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi at the Federation House, with positive outcomes expected if they are implemented. Tawab said Pakistan’s external debt burden is not beyond management and that with sincere collective effort, dependence on institutions such as the IMF can be reduced. He also highlighted the traffic problems faced by citizens in Karachi during PSL matches due to restricted routes for team movement, urging the relevant authorities to devise a better strategy that keeps public convenience in mind.The event concluded with business leaders reaffirming their support for reforms aimed at economic stability, improved law and order and a stronger partnership between the state and the private sector.

Pakistan has taken a major step toward reviving its long-dormant steel industry after signing a significant agreement with a Russian company to restore the Pakistan Steel Mills. Read More: https://theboardroompk.com/pakistan-highlights-economic-reforms-at-imf-world-bank-meetings-2026/ Under the newly signed deal, the Russian partner will provide both financial backing and technical expertise to help restart and modernize the massive industrial complex. Officials revealed that the project will be executed in phases, ensuring a structured and sustainable revival of the facility. The initiative aims not only to bring operations back online but also to upgrade outdated infrastructure and improve efficiency across the plant. As part of the long-term plan, production capacity is expected to increase significantly, with targets reaching up to 3 million tons annually. Once operational, the revived steel mills are anticipated to play a crucial role in boosting Pakistan’s industrial output, reducing reliance on imported steel, and strengthening the country’s manufacturing sector. The project is also likely to generate employment opportunities and stimulate related industries nationwide. Originally established with Soviet support in the 1970s, Pakistan Steel Mills had remained inactive for years due to financial losses and operational challenges. The latest agreement signals renewed cooperation between Pakistan and Russia and reflects a broader push to revitalize key state-owned industries. If successfully implemented, this partnership could mark a turning point for Pakistan’s industrial landscape, positioning the country for stronger economic growth and greater self-sufficiency in steel production.