Pakistan Archives - Page 10 of 142

Zong Partners With WWF Pakistan For Plastic Free July Coastal Clean-Up At Hawksbay

Web Desk / July 24, 2026

Zong, WWF Pakistan And ISPES Launch Coastal Clean-Up Drive In Karachi KARACHI: Zong 4G has partnered with WWF Pakistan and Integrated Waste Management Solution (ISPES) to mark the conclusion of the global Plastic Free July campaign with a coastal clean-up drive at Hawksbay, Karachi. The initiative brought together Zong employees, volunteers, and environmental advocates to remove plastic waste from the coastline, helping protect Pakistan’s marine ecosystems while promoting responsible waste management and environmental awareness. Plastic Free July Initiative Promotes Environmental Sustainability The clean-up campaign reflects Zong’s ongoing commitment to environmental sustainability by integrating practical conservation initiatives into its corporate responsibility efforts. The activity aimed to raise awareness about the growing threat of marine plastic pollution while encouraging collective action and stronger collaboration between the private sector, environmental organizations, and local communities to preserve Pakistan’s coastal ecosystems. Collected Plastic Sent For Recycling And Upcycling To ensure responsible disposal of the collected waste, ISPES transported the materials for sorting and processing after the clean-up. Recyclable plastic waste was sent to the company’s upcycling facility, where it will be converted into reusable materials as part of circular economy practices. The approach is intended to reduce landfill waste while promoting sustainable resource utilization and responsible environmental management. Zong Highlights Importance Of Strategic Partnerships Commenting on the initiative, Nabila Yazdani, Head of Strategy, Corporate Communications & Sustainability at Zong, said sustainable development requires innovation, strategic partnerships, and meaningful community engagement. She added that the collaboration with WWF Pakistan and ISPES supports responsible waste management, strengthens circular economy practices, and encourages collective efforts to safeguard Pakistan’s coastal and natural ecosystems. Company Reaffirms Sustainability Commitment Zong said it remains committed to reducing its environmental footprint by improving resource efficiency and embedding sustainable practices across its operations. The company added that through strategic partnerships and community-driven initiatives, it aims to contribute towards building a cleaner, greener, and more environmentally resilient Pakistan.

Pakistan

CPEC Security: Govt to Buy Rs95m Bullet-Proof Vehicle for Protection of Chinese Nationals

Web Desk / July 24, 2026

The federal government has approved the purchase of a Rs95 million bullet-proof vehicle for the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) Secretariat to strengthen security arrangements for Chinese nationals working on strategic development projects across Pakistan. The decision comes as authorities seek to address operational challenges caused by the limited availability of secure transport provided by the Cabinet Division, which has reportedly delayed or led to the cancellation of key official engagements involving Chinese delegations. Govt Approves Bullet-Proof Vehicle for CPEC Security The Planning Ministry confirmed that a new Toyota Land Cruiser 3,500cc will be procured exclusively for transporting Chinese officials, technical experts, and visiting delegations associated with CPEC. The vehicle will become part of the government’s existing fleet of bullet-proof vehicles and other security assets deployed to ensure the safe movement of Chinese personnel amid heightened security concerns. Planning Minister Ahsan Iqbal said the purchase is aimed solely at strengthening the protection of Chinese nationals, describing their security as one of the government’s highest priorities. Chinese engineers, investors, and technical experts working on CPEC projects are considered high-risk targets and, under existing security protocols, are not permitted to travel in standard vehicles. The procurement will be carried out through direct contracting under Rule 42(c)(vii) of the Public Procurement Regulatory Authority (PPRA) Rules to expedite the purchase while remaining compliant with procurement regulations. Transport Shortage Prompted the Decision According to official documents, the CPEC Secretariat repeatedly informed the Planning Ministry that dependence on the Cabinet Division’s vehicle pool had become increasingly difficult because of limited availability and growing demand. Officials said requests for secure transport frequently went unmet, resulting in delays, rescheduling, and in some cases, cancellation of important meetings involving Chinese delegations. The Secretariat maintained that reliable transport is essential for carrying out its responsibilities of coordinating and monitoring projects under the multi-billion-dollar China-Pakistan Economic Corridor initiative. Chinese delegations and technical experts regularly visit the Planning Ministry, the CPEC Secretariat, and project sites for meetings, inspections, and coordination. Officials warned that inadequate transport arrangements could affect operational efficiency as well as Pakistan’s diplomatic and protocol commitments. The issue has become more significant as Pakistan and China celebrate 75 years of diplomatic relations, with several high-level Chinese delegations expected to visit the country for CPEC-related engagements during the year. Rs95 Million Land Cruiser Approved Three authorised Toyota dealerships submitted quotations for the vehicle, with only minor differences in pricing. Toyota Central Motors submitted the lowest bid of Rs95.049 million, which was accepted by the government. The other quotations included: The Central Development Working Party (CDWP) has already approved the procurement, allowing the Planning Ministry to proceed. Officials clarified that the Land Cruiser will first be purchased in its standard configuration before being converted into a bullet-proof vehicle in accordance with the Ministry of Interior’s standard operating procedures. Funding Arranged Through Budget Reallocation The CPEC Secretariat initially lacked sufficient funds to finance the purchase. To overcome the shortfall, the Planning Ministry reallocated Rs58.3 million from several ongoing development projects before the end of the previous fiscal year. However, despite arranging the funds before June 30, the ministry could not place the order because the required administrative approvals were not completed before the close of the financial year. Officials said the procurement will now be completed during the current fiscal year. The ministry redirected funds from multiple projects, including: Internal documents indicate that obtaining surplus funds was challenging because most project directors were unwilling to surrender allocated budgets, with only the Federal SDGs Administration project reporting available surplus funds. CPEC 2.0 Expected to Increase Chinese Presence Officials say the purchase comes as Pakistan enters the next phase of CPEC 2.0, which is expected to bring a larger number of Chinese experts and technical teams to the country. The acting Project Director of the CPEC Secretariat said Chinese specialists have been invited to support long-term development planning, export promotion, establishment of Special Economic Zones (SEZs), and agricultural modernisation initiatives. With more Chinese delegations expected to visit Pakistan, authorities believe reliable and secure transportation has become increasingly important. Officials also confirmed that payment for the vehicle will be made through a single transaction, after which it will undergo bullet-proofing under Interior Ministry security requirements before entering official service. CPEC Security Remains a Government Priority The procurement reflects Pakistan’s continued efforts to strengthen security arrangements for Chinese personnel involved in CPEC, one of the flagship projects under Pakistan-China economic cooperation. As work on CPEC 2.0 accelerates and bilateral collaboration expands into new sectors, the government aims to ensure that visiting Chinese officials, investors, and technical experts can travel safely while supporting ongoing infrastructure and development initiatives.

Pakistan

Pakistan-Origin Saadia Zahidi Becomes IATA’s First Woman Director General

Web Desk / July 24, 2026

Lahore-Born Saadia Zahidi Makes History with Top IATA Appointment The International Air Transport Association (IATA) has appointed Pakistan-origin Saadia Zahidi as its next Director General, making history as the first woman to lead the global airline industry body. Lahore-born Zahidi will assume office on November 1, 2026, succeeding Willie Walsh, who steps down on July 31, 2026. Until her arrival, Sandrine Le Borgne, IATA’s Chief Financial Officer, will serve as Acting Director General. Her appointment marks a significant milestone for the Geneva-based organization, which represents airlines worldwide and has traditionally been led by former airline executives. First Woman to Lead IATA Saadia Zahidi becomes the ninth Director General in IATA’s history and the first female leader of the organization since its establishment. Currently serving as the Managing Director at the World Economic Forum (WEF), Zahidi brings decades of experience in global economic policy, workforce development, and international cooperation. She is also the author of Fifty Million Rising, a book that explores the growing participation of women in the workforce across the Muslim world. Strong Academic and Global Leadership Background Zahidi has an impressive academic background, holding: Her experience at the World Economic Forum has positioned her as one of the leading voices on global economic development, competitiveness, and future workforce trends. IATA Welcomes a New Perspective Announcing the appointment, IATA’s Board expressed confidence that Zahidi’s international experience would strengthen the organization’s role as the voice of the global airline industry. The association said her leadership would help effectively represent the aviation sector’s priorities while supporting safe, efficient, and sustainable global air transport. Unlike many of her predecessors, Zahidi comes from a policy and economic background rather than airline management, a shift that many industry observers believe could bring fresh ideas to the sector. Zahidi Outlines Vision for the Aviation Industry Responding to her appointment, Zahidi said she looks forward to working closely with member airlines, governments, regulators, and industry partners. She emphasized the importance of building on IATA’s strong foundation while embracing innovation, improving industry resilience, and accelerating sustainable growth. Her leadership begins at a time when the aviation industry continues to navigate rising operating costs, geopolitical uncertainty, supply chain disruptions, and the long-term transition toward lower-carbon aviation. Industry Faces Major Challenges Zahidi takes over as airlines worldwide face mounting challenges, including: Rising Fuel Costs Global oil prices have climbed above $100 per barrel amid ongoing geopolitical tensions in the Middle East, increasing operating expenses for airlines. Sustainability Goals The aviation industry remains committed to achieving net-zero carbon emissions by 2050, although progress is being constrained by limited availability of fuel-efficient aircraft and sustainable aviation fuel (SAF). Supply Chain Constraints Aircraft delivery delays and manufacturing bottlenecks continue to affect airline expansion plans across many regions. Zahidi has previously highlighted concerns that environmental priorities risk being overshadowed by immediate geopolitical and trade-related challenges, making sustainability a key area of focus during her tenure. A Landmark Appointment for Global Aviation Saadia Zahidi’s appointment represents a historic moment not only for IATA but also for Pakistan, as a Lahore-born global executive takes charge of one of the world’s most influential aviation organizations. Her leadership is expected to bring a broader economic and policy perspective to the aviation sector while guiding airlines through a period of rapid technological change, sustainability commitments, and evolving global travel demand.

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Pakistan SPI Inflation Rises 0.91% as Tomato and Fuel Prices Push Up Cost of Living

Web Desk / July 24, 2026

Pakistan SPI Inflation Climbs on Higher Food and Energy Costs Pakistan’s SPI inflation increased by 0.91% during the week ending July 23, 2026, as sharp increases in tomato and fuel prices added further pressure on household budgets, according to the latest figures released by the Pakistan Bureau of Statistics (PBS). On a year-on-year (YoY) basis, the Sensitive Price Indicator (SPI) rose 9.66%, reflecting continued inflationary pressures across food, energy and essential consumer goods. The SPI is a weekly inflation gauge that tracks the prices of 51 essential commodities across 50 markets in 17 cities, providing policymakers with an early indication of changes in the cost of living. Tomato and Fuel Prices Lead Weekly SPI Inflation The biggest contributor to this week’s increase was the sharp rise in tomato prices, which surged 39.92% compared with the previous week. Fuel prices also recorded significant increases following recent adjustments in petroleum prices. Major Weekly Price Increases Higher fuel costs have also increased transportation and distribution expenses, contributing to price pressures across several food categories. Some Essential Commodities Became Cheaper Despite the overall increase in inflation, a number of essential food items recorded weekly price declines. Weekly Price Decreases These declines helped offset part of the increase caused by vegetables and petroleum products but were not enough to prevent overall weekly inflation from rising. Prices Increased for Nearly Half of Essential Items According to PBS data, price movements remained mixed across the basket of 51 commodities monitored under the SPI. Weekly Breakdown The data indicates that inflationary pressure remains broad-based, although price stability continued for a significant portion of essential goods. Annual SPI Inflation Remains Elevated Compared with the same week last year, SPI inflation increased 9.66%, driven largely by higher food, fuel and utility costs. Biggest Annual Price Increases Seasonal supply shortages continued to drive tomato prices sharply higher, while fuel and electricity costs added to transportation and production expenses. Several Commodities Were Cheaper Than a Year Ago Not all items recorded annual increases. Several staples were less expensive compared with the corresponding week of last year. Largest Annual Price Declines While these declines provided some relief, they were outweighed by substantial increases in vegetables, fuel and utility-related items. Urea and Cement Prices Continue to Increase PBS also reported higher prices for key agricultural and construction inputs during the week. The average price of Sona Urea increased to Rs4,655 per 50-kilogram bag, up 0.38% from the previous week and 5.44% higher than a year earlier. Meanwhile, the average price of cement rose to Rs1,536 per 50-kilogram bag, representing a 0.95% weekly increase and a 9.21% annual rise. Higher input costs may place additional pressure on farming, construction activity and broader inflation in the coming months. SPI Inflation Remains a Key Economic Indicator The Sensitive Price Indicator (SPI) remains one of Pakistan’s most closely watched measures of short-term inflation, offering timely insights into changes in food, fuel and household commodity prices. The latest figures suggest that rising petroleum prices and seasonal food supply constraints continue to drive inflationary pressures. Policymakers will be closely monitoring future SPI readings as they assess inflation trends and consider measures to support price stability while protecting household purchasing power.

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Shield Corporation to Delist from Pakistan Stock Exchange on July 27 Following Sponsor Buyback

Web Desk / July 24, 2026

Shield Corporation Limited, one of Pakistan’s leading manufacturers of baby care and oral care products, will officially be delisted from the Pakistan Stock Exchange (PSX) on July 27, 2026, after the exchange approved the company’s voluntary delisting request. The move follows the completion of the sponsor buyback process, allowing the company to exit the stock market after nearly five decades as a listed entity. Minority shareholders who still own shares will continue to have the opportunity to sell them to the sponsors at a fixed price until July 2027. PSX Approves Shield Corporation’s Voluntary Delisting The Pakistan Stock Exchange has accepted Shield Corporation’s application for voluntary delisting after the company fulfilled all regulatory requirements. According to the PSX notice issued on July 23, 2026, the company’s shares will be removed from the exchange with effect from Monday, July 27, 2026, under Regulation 5.14 of the PSX Regulations and Section 19(5) of the Securities Act, 2015. The notice was also shared with the Securities and Exchange Commission of Pakistan (SECP), the Central Depository Company (CDC), the National Clearing Company of Pakistan Limited (NCCPL), and the company’s purchase agent. Shareholders Can Still Sell Shares at Rs750 Each Although the company will no longer be listed on the PSX, minority shareholders who continue to hold Shield Corporation shares can still sell them to the sponsors. The sponsors have committed to purchasing all remaining shares at Rs750 per share, with Arif Habib Limited serving as the official purchase agent. The buyback offer will remain valid until July 16, 2027, giving shareholders who did not participate during the initial buyback period another opportunity to exit their investment. The original buyback window was open from May 18 to July 16, 2026, while the company completed all voluntary delisting requirements on July 18, 2026. Company to Continue Operations as a Private Entity Established in 1975 and headquartered in Karachi, Shield Corporation is widely known for manufacturing baby care and oral care products, including baby feeders, nipples, soothers, teethers, toothbrushes, and other hygiene items. The company had previously discontinued its diaper manufacturing business after reviewing production costs and market conditions. Shield Corporation operates as a subsidiary of PharmEvo and has exported its products to several markets across Asia, Europe, and Africa. Following the delisting, the company will continue operating as a privately held business with a focus on its core product portfolio. Delisting Aims to Improve Operational Efficiency The decision to delist comes after a period of weak stock market performance. Low average daily trading volumes, consecutive financial losses in recent years, and the absence of dividend payments since 2021 were among the factors that contributed to the company’s decision to leave the stock market. By becoming a private company, Shield Corporation aims to reduce regulatory compliance costs and focus on improving operational efficiency and long-term business performance. Minority shareholders who still wish to sell their shares can contact Arif Habib Limited, the designated purchase agent, before the buyback offer expires in July 2027. The delisting marks the end of Shield Corporation’s public listing, concluding a presence on Pakistan’s capital market that spanned nearly 50 years.

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S&P Upgrades Pakistan’s Sovereign Credit Rating to B on Reform Progress and Economic Stability

Web Desk / July 23, 2026

Pakistan has received a significant boost to its international credit profile after S&P Global Ratings upgraded the country’s long-term sovereign credit rating to B from B-. The rating agency cited improved political stability, stronger institutions, and continued implementation of economic reforms as the main reasons behind the upgrade. The improved rating reflects growing confidence in Pakistan’s fiscal management and reform agenda, although S&P also highlighted several economic and external risks that continue to weigh on the country’s outlook. Political Stability and Reforms Drive Rating Upgrade According to S&P Global Ratings, Pakistan’s relatively stable political environment over the past two years has strengthened institutional capacity, enabling the government to implement key reforms under the International Monetary Fund (IMF) programme. The agency said these reforms have accelerated fiscal consolidation, improved policy implementation, and helped rebuild the country’s external financial buffers. S&P identified political stability, institutional strengthening, and fiscal discipline as the three primary factors supporting the sovereign rating upgrade. Fiscal Consolidation Improves Economic Outlook The rating agency noted that Pakistan has remained committed to fiscal consolidation despite facing resistance to several difficult policy measures. Efforts to broaden the tax base and strengthen public finances have contributed to a gradual improvement in the government’s fiscal position and a decline in the net government debt-to-GDP ratio. S&P also referred to tax measures such as the Agriculture Income Tax and efforts to expand the retail tax base as contributors to higher tax revenues. However, it is worth noting that both initiatives were not fully implemented during 2025. The agency added that the government’s policy of allowing fuel price adjustments while providing targeted support to vulnerable households should help limit fiscal pressures arising from volatile global energy prices. Economy Expected to Maintain Moderate Growth S&P estimates Pakistan’s economy expanded by 3.6 percent during fiscal year 2026, marking the third consecutive year of economic growth. For the current fiscal year, the agency forecasts GDP growth of 3.5 percent, supported by continued macroeconomic stability and structural reforms. However, several economic indicators are expected to remain under pressure. Investment is projected at 14.4 percent of GDP, while national savings are forecast to reach 13.5 percent of GDP. The exports-to-GDP ratio is expected to decline to 9.6 percent, and net foreign direct investment is projected at only 0.4 percent of GDP. External Financing Needs Remain High Despite the improved rating, S&P cautioned that Pakistan continues to face significant external financing challenges. The agency projects gross external financing requirements to rise to 104.9 percent of current account receipts, while narrow net external debt could reach 113 percent of current account receipts during the current fiscal year. Pakistan is also expected to continue relying on the rollover of financial support from key bilateral partners, including China, Saudi Arabia, and Kuwait. According to S&P, total bilateral support through central bank deposits and currency swap arrangements reached approximately $16.8 billion by the end of fiscal year 2026. Debt Sustainability and Regional Risks Persist S&P expects Pakistan’s net government debt-to-GDP ratio to continue declining gradually but remain above 60 percent over the medium term. The agency also warned that high interest payments relative to government revenues remain a major challenge for long-term debt sustainability. In addition, S&P highlighted geopolitical risks, noting that border tensions with India and Afghanistan could increase the risk of regional instability and economic uncertainty. Despite these concerns, the agency believes continued implementation of structural reforms and prudent fiscal management could support steady economic growth and stronger public finances in the years ahead.

Pakistan

Bangladesh Foreign Exchange Reserves Rise to $36.47 Billion, Central Bank Reports

Web Desk / July 23, 2026

Bangladesh’s foreign exchange reserves remained on an upward trajectory as the country’s gross reserves climbed to $36.47 billion, according to the latest data released by Bangladesh Bank. The updated figures also showed that reserves measured under the International Monetary Fund’s (IMF) Balance of Payments and International Investment Position Manual (BPM6) methodology stood at $31.77 billion. The latest reserve position reflects Bangladesh’s external financial strength and remains a key indicator closely monitored by investors, businesses, and policymakers. Bangladesh Bank Releases Latest Reserve Figures Bangladesh Bank published the updated foreign exchange reserve data on July 23, 2026, confirming that the country’s gross reserves reached $36.47 billion. At the same time, reserves calculated under the IMF’s BPM6 methodology were reported at $31.77 billion. The central bank regularly publishes both figures to provide a comprehensive view of the country’s external reserve position. Understanding Gross Reserves and BPM6 Methodology The two reserve figures represent different methods of measuring a country’s foreign exchange assets. Gross reserves include the total stock of international reserve assets held by the central bank. In contrast, the IMF’s BPM6 methodology applies a stricter standard by focusing on reserves that are readily available for meeting external financing needs and managing balance-of-payments pressures. As a result, the BPM6 figure is generally lower than the gross reserve total. Strong Reserves Support External Stability Maintaining healthy foreign exchange reserves strengthens Bangladesh’s ability to finance imports, meet external debt obligations, and respond to global economic uncertainties. Higher reserve levels also provide confidence to investors and financial markets by improving the country’s capacity to manage exchange rate movements and external payment requirements. Analysts closely monitor reserve trends as an important measure of overall external sector stability. Remittances and Trade Remain Key Drivers Future movements in Bangladesh’s foreign exchange reserves will depend on several factors, including remittance inflows, export earnings, import payments, and central bank operations in the foreign exchange market. With gross reserves remaining above the $36 billion mark, Bangladesh continues to maintain a solid external buffer while policymakers monitor global economic developments and domestic foreign currency flows. Bangladesh Bank remains the official source for the country’s reserve statistics and is expected to provide further updates as economic conditions evolve.

Pakistan

Flash Floods and Monsoon Rains Claim 22 Lives in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Since July 19

Web Desk / July 23, 2026

Heavy monsoon rains and flash floods have claimed at least 22 lives and injured 23 others across Khyber Pakhtunkhwa since July 19, according to the Provincial Disaster Management Authority (PDMA). The severe weather has also damaged dozens of homes, prompting authorities to intensify relief efforts and issue fresh safety advisories as more rainfall is forecast. The ongoing spell of rain has affected multiple districts, with rescue teams and local administrations working to assist affected families and monitor the evolving situation. Death Toll Rises as Heavy Rains Batter Khyber Pakhtunkhwa According to the PDMA, 22 people have lost their lives due to rain-related incidents, including house collapses and flash floods that swept away residents in different parts of the province. The victims include nine men, 10 children, and three women. Meanwhile, 23 people sustained injuries during the severe weather. The injured comprise 11 men, five women, and seven children who are receiving medical treatment. Dozens of Houses Damaged by Flash Floods The heavy rains have also caused significant damage to residential properties across the province. A total of 37 houses were affected, with 29 suffering partial damage while eight homes were completely destroyed. Local authorities are assessing the damage and coordinating assistance for displaced families. Multiple Districts Affected by Monsoon Rains The widespread rainfall and flash flooding have impacted several districts across Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, including Peshawar, Nowshera, Khyber, Mardan, Buner, Bajaur, Shangla, Swabi, Lower Chitral, Upper Dir, Lower Dir, Abbottabad, Mansehra, Haripur, Tank, Tor Ghar, Kurram, North Waziristan, and South Waziristan. Emergency response teams remain active in the affected areas to support rescue operations and provide relief where needed. PDMA Intensifies Relief Operations The PDMA said it is working closely with Rescue 1122, district administrations, and other emergency response agencies to ensure timely assistance reaches affected communities. District authorities have been instructed to accelerate relief activities and provide essential support to people impacted by the floods and heavy rainfall. Officials also confirmed that water levels in major rivers and streams remain within normal limits despite the ongoing weather conditions. Public Urged to Exercise Caution With intermittent heavy rain expected to continue through Thursday, authorities have advised residents to remain vigilant and avoid unnecessary travel. People have been urged to stay away from flood-prone areas and vulnerable tourist destinations while closely following official weather advisories. The PDMA’s Emergency Operations Centre remains operational, and citizens can seek information or report emergencies through the toll-free helpline 1700.

Pakistan

Ufone-Telenor Merger Narrows Gap with Jazz, Signals Major Shift in Pakistan’s Telecom Market

Web Desk / July 23, 2026

Pakistan’s mobile telecom sector is approaching a historic turning point as the Ufone-Telenor merger rapidly closes the gap with long-time market leader Jazz. The latest subscriber data released by the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) shows the combined operator is now just over half a million subscribers behind Jazz, setting the stage for one of the biggest competitive shifts in the country’s telecommunications history. With network integration progressing and customer numbers continuing to rise, industry experts believe the merged company could soon overtake Jazz to become Pakistan’s largest mobile operator. Ufone-Telenor Merger Brings Subscriber Base Close to Jazz According to the latest PTA statistics, Jazz remains Pakistan’s largest telecom operator with 75.42 million subscribers. However, the combined subscriber base of Ufone and Telenor Pakistan has climbed to 74.86 million, reducing the difference to just 564,166 subscribers. The narrowing gap reflects the strong momentum gained since the merger, positioning the combined operator as a serious challenger for the industry’s top position. Merger Strengthens Competitive Position The merger has brought together the infrastructure, spectrum assets, retail presence, and digital capabilities of both telecom operators, creating a stronger nationwide network. Industry analysts believe the integration is expected to deliver several long-term benefits, including: Improved Network Coverage The combined infrastructure enables broader nationwide coverage while improving network reliability and capacity. Enhanced Service Quality Pooling spectrum resources and technical capabilities is expected to improve voice quality, mobile internet speeds, and overall customer experience. Faster Customer Growth A larger retail footprint and expanded service portfolio could help the merged operator attract new subscribers while improving customer retention. Pakistan’s Mobile Subscriber Base Continues to Expand The PTA data also highlights continued growth across Pakistan’s telecom sector. Pakistan’s total mobile subscriber base reached 208.06 million in June 2026, reflecting steady demand for digital connectivity. Several factors continue to support this growth, including: Rising Smartphone Adoption More consumers are switching to smartphones, increasing demand for mobile broadband services. Expanding 5G Services The rollout of 5G-compatible services is encouraging users to upgrade both devices and mobile packages. Higher Digital Usage Growing reliance on digital banking, online education, video streaming, e-commerce, and remote work continues to boost mobile data consumption across the country. Competition Moves Beyond Subscriber Numbers While subscriber growth remains important, industry experts note that competition is increasingly focused on overall service quality rather than customer numbers alone. Telecom operators are now competing across multiple areas, including: Network Performance Reliable connectivity and faster mobile internet have become key factors influencing customer choice. Digital Innovation Operators are investing heavily in fintech, digital payments, cloud services, entertainment platforms, and enterprise solutions. Customer Experience Improved customer support, attractive data packages, and value-added services are becoming increasingly important in retaining subscribers. The merged Ufone-Telenor operator is expected to leverage its expanded infrastructure to strengthen its position across consumer, enterprise, and digital financial services. Jazz Faces Strongest Challenge in Nearly Two Decades Jazz has maintained its position as Pakistan’s largest mobile operator for almost two decades. However, the latest PTA figures indicate that the competitive gap has narrowed to its lowest level in recent years, making a change in market leadership increasingly possible. If current subscriber growth trends continue, Pakistan’s telecom market could witness its most significant leadership transition in decades. Consumers Stand to Benefit Most Industry observers believe increased competition between major telecom operators will ultimately benefit consumers. Greater rivalry is expected to encourage: Wider 5G Expansion Operators are likely to accelerate investment in next-generation mobile networks. Better Service Quality Competition typically drives improvements in network performance and customer support. More Competitive Packages Consumers may benefit from better data offers, value-added services, and digital products as operators compete for market share. Pakistan’s Telecom Industry Enters a New Phase The Ufone-Telenor merger is reshaping Pakistan’s telecommunications landscape by creating a stronger competitor capable of challenging the industry’s long-standing leader. As subscriber numbers continue to grow and digital services become increasingly important, the race for market leadership is expected to intensify. Whether the merged operator ultimately overtakes Jazz or not, the heightened competition is likely to accelerate innovation, improve connectivity, and support Pakistan’s broader digital transformation.

Pakistan

Spotify Celebrates Atif Aslam’s Global Success Ahead of New Album Subah Aye Na

Web Desk / July 23, 2026

Spotify has celebrated the remarkable global journey of Pakistani music icon Atif Aslam ahead of the release of his highly anticipated new album, Subah Aye Na, scheduled for July 31, 2026. The streaming platform highlighted the singer’s enduring influence, revealing that his music has amassed nearly 8 billion streams and continues to resonate with millions of listeners across the globe. The announcement underscores Atif Aslam’s position as one of South Asia’s most successful artists, with a fan base that extends far beyond Pakistan. Spotify Highlights Atif Aslam’s Global Reach According to Spotify, Atif Aslam currently attracts more than 30 million monthly listeners, with his songs streamed in 184 countries worldwide. The platform revealed that 96 percent of his Spotify streams over the past year came from outside Pakistan, reflecting his strong international following across South Asia, the Middle East, North America, Europe, and the Asia-Pacific region. Spotify said Atif’s music continues to connect with listeners through songs that capture themes of love, heartbreak, nostalgia, celebration, and spirituality. Nearly 8 Billion Streams Reflect Lasting Popularity More than two decades into his career, Atif Aslam remains one of the most-streamed Pakistani artists globally. Spotify data shows his songs have been added to over 37.5 million user-created playlists, ranging from wedding playlists and road-trip collections to romantic, nostalgic, and motivational playlists. The streaming service also revealed that over 41 million listeners either discovered or revisited Atif’s music during the past year, demonstrating the continued appeal of his extensive catalog. Gen Z Drives New Wave of Listeners Spotify noted that Atif Aslam’s popularity extends well beyond longtime fans. According to the platform, Gen Z listeners account for 85 percent of his total Spotify streams, highlighting how a younger generation continues to embrace his music alongside audiences who have followed him since the early years of his career. His classic albums, including Doorie and Meri Kahani, remain among his most-streamed releases, continuing to attract new listeners years after their original launch. Spotify Praises Atif Aslam’s Musical Legacy Commenting on the milestone, Rutaba Yaqub, Spotify’s Artist & Label Partnerships Manager for Pakistan and the UAE, said Atif Aslam has become an artist whose music forms part of the collective memories of millions of listeners. She said his songs have accompanied fans through different stages of life and continue to create emotional connections both in Pakistan and internationally. Atif Aslam Shares Thoughts on New Album Ahead of the album’s release, Atif Aslam described Subah Aye Na as a deeply personal project. He said the album represents a journey of self-discovery and reconnecting with his true self beyond life’s distractions, adding that he is excited for fans to hear the new music. The upcoming album features eight tracks: Subah Aye Na Tracklist New Chapter in a Global Career As Subah Aye Na prepares for release on July 31, Spotify says Atif Aslam continues to demonstrate how timeless music can transcend borders and generations. With billions of streams, millions of monthly listeners, and a growing international audience, the Pakistani singer remains one of the country’s most influential musical ambassadors on the global stage.

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