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U.S. President Warns India: Cut Russian Oil or Face Higher Duties
Pakistan

U.S. President Warns India: Cut Russian Oil or Face Higher Duties

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In a fresh escalation of trade tensions, U.S. President Donald Trump has warned that the United States could impose even higher tariffs on Indian goods if New Delhi fails to significantly curb its purchases of Russian oil. Speaking to reporters aboard Air Force One on January 4, 2026, Trump remarked, “We can raise tariffs on them very quickly,” emphasizing his dissatisfaction with India’s continued energy ties to Moscow amid the ongoing Ukraine conflict. Read More:https://theboardroompk.com/us-pakistan-partnership-2025-marks-a-transformational-year/ The warning comes against the backdrop of existing punitive measures. In 2025, the Trump administration doubled tariffs on most Indian imports to 50%, citing India’s role in sustaining Russian revenues through discounted crude purchases. Despite these hefty duties, Indian exports to the U.S. surged in November 2025, showcasing resilience in bilateral trade. However, data indicates a decline in India’s Russian oil imports, reportedly dipping below 1 million barrels per day as New Delhi pushes for weekly disclosures from refiners to monitor sources. India’s Strategic Balancing Act India has long defended its Russian oil imports as essential for energy security and affordability for its 1.4 billion population. Sources indicate that the decline in purchases may be linked to efforts to secure a comprehensive trade deal with Washington, with officials expressing optimism for an agreement by year-end. Prime Minister Narendra Modi has held multiple phone conversations with Trump since the tariffs were imposed, though discussions remain inconclusive.Global Implications and ReactionsTrump praised Modi as a “good guy” who “knew I was not happy,” suggesting personal diplomacy plays a role. The Indian commerce ministry has yet to respond officially, while experts note that sustained high tariffs could strain U.S.-India relations, potentially pushing New Delhi closer to alternative partners. As sanctions on Russia tighten globally, India’s refiners are navigating increased scrutiny, balancing economic needs with geopolitical pressures.

Gold Price in Pakistan Rises Sharply on Global Turmoil
Pakistan

Gold Price in Pakistan Rises Sharply on Global Turmoil

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Gold price in Pakistan surged significantly on Monday, reflecting both strong international bullion markets and rising geopolitical tensions that have intensified global demand for safe-haven assets. According to the All-Pakistan Gems and Jewelers Sarafa Association (APGJSA), the domestic bullion market witnessed one of its strongest daily increases in recent weeks. The price of 24-karat gold per tola climbed to Rs464,762, registering a sharp day-on-day increase of Rs9,200. Meanwhile, 24-karat gold per 10 grams rose to Rs398,458, up by Rs7,888, underscoring the strong momentum across Pakistan’s precious metals market. Read More: https://theboardroompk.com/gold-price-in-pakistan-rises-sharply-amid-global-market-uncertainty/ Gold Price in Pakistan: Domestic Market Performance Explained The rally was not limited to 24-karat gold alone. 22-karat gold also followed the upward trend, trading at Rs365,266 per 10 grams, reflecting sustained retail and investment demand. On a broader performance basis, gold prices in Pakistan have gained Rs22,600 over the past month, while fiscal year-to-date gains stand at Rs114,562 per tola, highlighting gold’s continued appeal as an inflation hedge and store of value amid economic uncertainty. Silver Prices Follow Gold Higher in Pakistan Silver also recorded notable gains in the local market, tracking global strength across the precious metals complex. 24-karat silver per tola increased to Rs8,023, up Rs267, while 10-gram silver prices rose to Rs6,878, gaining Rs229 in a single session. Month-to-date and fiscal year-to-date figures show silver outperforming many traditional asset classes, reflecting growing industrial demand and speculative interest. Global Gold Prices Drive Gold Price in Pakistan Higher Internationally, spot gold traded near $4,420 per ounce, rising over 1% in a single session. Prices later climbed further to $4,433.54 per ounce, following the news that the United States had reportedly captured Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro, triggering fresh geopolitical uncertainty. This development intensified risk-averse sentiment across financial markets, prompting investors to rotate into gold and other defensive assets. Geopolitical Risk and Interest Rate Expectations Fuel Rally According to Tim Waterer, Chief Market Analyst at KCM Trade, renewed turmoil in Venezuela has significantly strengthened demand for defensive assets such as gold and silver. He noted that escalating geopolitical risks tend to amplify inflows into precious metals, especially when paired with expectations of looser monetary policy. Gold’s current rally builds on an extraordinary performance last year, when bullion prices surged 64%, marking the strongest annual gain since 1979. Support has come from aggressive global rate cuts, heavy central-bank buying, and strong inflows into gold-backed exchange-traded funds (ETFs). Gold prices reached a record high of $4,549.71 on December 26, 2025, reinforcing long-term bullish sentiment. Silver, Platinum, and Palladium Extend Gains Silver continued to outperform, with spot prices jumping 4.4% to $75.82 per ounce. The metal had already reached an all-time high of $83.62 in late December and ended last year up an extraordinary 147%, its strongest annual gain on record. The rally has been fueled by tight supply conditions, strong industrial demand, rising investor interest, and silver’s designation as a critical mineral in the United States. Other precious metals also advanced, with platinum rising to $2,190.55 per ounce and palladium climbing to $1,667.45, reflecting broad-based strength across the sector. Outlook: What’s Next for Gold Price in Pakistan? Looking ahead, analysts believe the gold price in Pakistan will remain sensitive to global geopolitical developments, U.S. Federal Reserve policy expectations, and currency movements. While some policymakers caution that further rate cuts may not come quickly, markets continue to price in at least two U.S. rate cuts this year, which could further support bullion prices. In an environment marked by uncertainty, gold and silver are likely to remain key hedging instruments for both institutional and retail investors in Pakistan.

Pak-Afghan Border Shutdown Triggers Unemployment and Perishable Goods Spoilage
Pakistan

Pak-Afghan Border Shutdown Triggers Unemployment and Perishable Goods Spoilage

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The prolonged closure of key border crossings between Pakistan and Afghanistan has inflicted severe financial and socio-economic damage on traders, with over 12,000 containers of bilateral and transit trade stranded at Karachi Port, according to the Sarhad Chamber of Commerce and Industry (SCCI). This ongoing shutdown, stemming from security concerns, has led to millions of dollars in daily losses from demurrage and detention charges, alongside billions blocked in bank guarantees and security deposits. Read More: https://theboardroompk.com/pakistan-kyrgyzstan-to-deepen-trade-ties-push-taliban-to-act-against-terrorist-groups/ Stranded Containers and Mounting Charges SCCI President Junaid Altaf highlighted that traders are facing heavy demurrage and detention fees imposed by foreign shipping lines, while the liquidity of clearing agents and bonded carriers has been completely exhausted. The closure has particularly disrupted perishable exports, causing spoilage and further amplifying losses. With the shutdown persisting for months—reportedly since October 2025—stakeholders estimate cumulative damages running into billions of rupees, affecting supply chains and regional connectivity. Socio-Economic Fallout and Calls for Resolution The impasse has triggered widespread unemployment among truck drivers, laborers, porters, and border communities reliant on cross-border trade. SCCI’s executive committee, in a recent meeting, urged authorities to prioritize diplomatic talks for reopening the borders without compromising national security. Emphasizing the Torkham crossing as a vital lifeline for trade with Afghanistan and Central Asia, the business community stressed that prolonged disruptions threaten economic stability, industrial growth, and livelihoods. As protests mount in affected areas like Khyber and Chaman, traders demand immediate intervention to resume trade and mitigate the humanitarian ripple effects.

PSX Shatters Records as KSE-100 Surges Past 181,000 Milestone
Pakistan

PSX Shatters Records as KSE-100 Surges Past 181,000 Milestone

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The Pakistan Stock Exchange (PSX) kicked off the trading week on a triumphant note, with the benchmark KSE-100 Index breaching the historic 181,000 level for the first time ever during early trade on Monday, January 5, 2026. By 10:20 am, the index stood at 181,118 points, reflecting a robust gain of over 2,083 points or 1.16% from the previous closer. Read More: https://theboardroompk.com/kse-100-index-all-time-high-signals-renewed-confidence-in-pakistan-stock-market/ This surge builds on the extraordinary performance witnessed in the preceding week, where the KSE-100 climbed by 6,634 points—a 3.8% week-on-week increase—to close at an all-time high of 179,035 points. Analysts attribute the ongoing rally to easing inflationary pressures, which have bolstered investor confidence and encouraged heightened participation in the market. Sector-Wide Buying Fuels the Rally Strong buying interest was evident across multiple key sectors, including automobile assemblers, cement, commercial banks, oil and gas exploration companies, oil marketing companies (OMCs), and power generation. Index-heavyweight stocks such as HUBCO, MARI, OGDC, POL, PPL, PSO, SNGPL, SSGC, HBL, MCB, MEBL, and UBL traded firmly in positive territory, contributing significantly to the index’s upward trajectory. The broader market sentiment remains overwhelmingly bullish, supported by improved macroeconomic indicators and strong corporate earnings expectations. As Pakistan’s equity market continues its remarkable turnaround, investors are optimistic about sustained growth amid policy stability and potential foreign inflows. This intra-day milestone underscores the PSX’s resilience and positions it as one of the top-performing markets globally in recent times

Pakistan Fertilizer Sector Urea Sales Set a Historic Record
Pakistan

Pakistan Fertilizer Sector Urea Sales Set a Historic Record

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Pakistan Fertilizer Sector Urea Sales reached an unprecedented milestone in December 2025, marking the highest monthly urea offtake ever recorded in the country. Industry data shows that total urea sales surged to 1.356 million tons, underscoring robust agricultural demand, efficient market absorption, and renewed momentum in Pakistan’s fertilizer industry. This record-breaking performance highlights the critical role fertilizers continue to play in supporting Pakistan’s agricultural productivity, particularly during the ongoing Rabi cropping season, when nutrient demand peaks for key staple crops. Read More: https://theboardroompk.com/pakistan-textile-council-calls-for-export-emergency-amid-sharp-decline-in-shipments/ Pakistan Fertilizer Sector Urea Sales Driven by Strong Agricultural Demand The sharp rise in Pakistan Fertilizer Sector Urea Sales was primarily fueled by strong demand from farmers during the Rabi season. Improved farmer liquidity, favorable weather conditions, and timely sowing activities significantly boosted fertilizer consumption across major agricultural regions. Relatively stable urea pricing during the month also encouraged farmers to make advance purchases, ensuring adequate nutrient availability for wheat and other winter crops. The uninterrupted availability of fertilizer at retail outlets further supported higher offtake, reducing uncertainty for growers at a crucial stage of the crop cycle. Pakistan Fertilizer Sector Urea Sales Reduce Inventory Levels Sharply As demand surged, urea inventories declined substantially by the end of December 2025. Total nationwide stocks fell to approximately 0.31 million tons, reflecting efficient consumption and a healthy balance between supply and demand. In simple terms, record sales meant that fertilizer produced and supplied during the month was quickly absorbed by the market. Lower inventory levels are generally viewed as a positive signal for the fertilizer industry, as they reduce storage and carrying costs for manufacturers while improving cash flow and operational efficiency. Why Pakistan Fertilizer Sector Urea Sales Matter for Food Security The exceptional performance of Pakistan Fertilizer Sector Urea Sales underscores the strategic importance of fertilizers in maintaining national food security. Urea remains the most widely used nitrogen-based fertilizer in Pakistan and is essential for improving yields of major crops such as: • Wheat• Rice• Sugarcane• Maize With agriculture forming the backbone of Pakistan’s economy, sustained fertilizer availability directly supports crop output, rural incomes, and overall economic stability. Strong urea sales during the Rabi season are particularly significant, as wheat production plays a central role in ensuring food affordability and supply. Key Factors Behind the Record Urea Sales Performance Several factors combined to push Pakistan Fertilizer Sector Urea Sales to an all-time high. These include strong seasonal demand, favorable market conditions, and effective supply chain management. In practical terms, the market experienced higher farmer purchasing activity, timely fertilizer distribution, and steady production levels at fertilizer plants. Together, these elements created an environment where supply efficiently met rising demand without major disruptions. Outlook for Pakistan Fertilizer Sector Urea Sales in 2026 Looking ahead, industry stakeholders will closely monitor several variables that could influence Pakistan Fertilizer Sector Urea Sales in early 2026. These include gas availability for fertilizer plants, production continuity, government pricing policies, and any potential changes to subsidy structures. If the current demand momentum continues, inventories could tighten further, supporting stable plant operations and sustained sales volumes. Analysts believe that continued strength in agricultural input demand points to positive near-term prospects for Pakistan’s fertilizer industry. Conclusion: Pakistan Fertilizer Sector Urea Sales Signal Market Strength The record-breaking Pakistan Fertilizer Sector Urea Sales in December 2025 mark a significant milestone for the industry and reflect renewed confidence across the agricultural value chain. With strong farmer demand, efficient inventory management, and supportive market dynamics, the fertilizer sector has entered 2026 on a solid footing. As food security remains a national priority, sustained fertilizer availability and consumption will continue to play a decisive role in shaping Pakistan’s agricultural and economic outlook.

Pakistan Cement Dispatches December 2025 Show Resilient Growth Despite Export Decline
Pakistan

Pakistan Cement Dispatches December 2025 Show Resilient Growth Despite Export Decline

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Pakistan cement dispatches December 2025 recorded a modest but encouraging growth of 1.47%, signaling improving domestic market conditions even as exports continued to face pressure. According to the All Pakistan Cement Manufacturers Association (APCMA), total cement dispatches during the month reached 4.347 million tons, compared to 4.284 million tons in December 2024. The latest figures underline a growing reliance on local consumption as infrastructure activity and construction demand gradually recover across the country. Pakistan Cement Dispatches December 2025 Driven by Domestic Demand A key highlight of Pakistan cement dispatches December 2025 was the strong rebound in domestic sales. Local cement dispatches increased by 6.42%, reaching 3.725 million tons, up from 3.5 million tons in the same month last year. This rise reflects improving market sentiment supported by ongoing public-sector development projects, private construction activity, and relative stability in cement prices. The domestic market has effectively cushioned the industry against falling overseas shipments. In contrast, export dispatches fell sharply by 20.66%, declining to 621,685 tons from 783,550 tons a year earlier. The downturn in exports continues to weigh on overall industry performance amid weak global demand, high freight costs, and regional competition. Read More: https://theboardroompk.com/pakistan-launches-advanced-speed-breeding-facilities-to-boost-crop-security/ North vs South: Regional Performance in Pakistan Cement Dispatches December 2025 North-Based Mills Outperform North-based cement manufacturers emerged as the primary growth drivers in Pakistan cement dispatches December 2025. Total dispatches from the northern region rose by 5.56% to 3.153 million tons, compared to 2.987 million tons in December 2024. Domestic sales played a crucial role, with North-based mills supplying 3.153 million tons locally, reflecting a significant 9.75% increase from 2.873 million tons last year. Notably, no cement exports were recorded from the northern region during the month. South-Based Mills Face Decline South-based mills, however, reported weaker performance. Total dispatches declined by 7.94%, falling to 1.19 million tons from 1.29 million tons in December 2024. Domestic dispatches from the southern region dropped by 8.81% to 572,263 tons, down from 627,519 tons. Exports from the South also decreased by 7.14%, reaching 621,685 tons compared to 669,461 tons a year earlier. Despite the decline, the southern region remained the sole contributor to cement exports in December. First Half FY2025-26 Performance Strengthens Industry Outlook Beyond Pakistan cement dispatches December 2025, the broader trend during July–December FY2025-26 shows a much stronger performance. Total cement dispatches increased by 9.67%, reaching 25.783 million tons, compared to 23.510 million tons in the corresponding period last fiscal year. Domestic dispatches surged by 13.11% to 21.152 million tons, highlighting sustained local demand. Meanwhile, exports slipped by 3.73% to 4.631 million tons, reinforcing the industry’s increasing dependence on the domestic market. Regional Breakdown for July–December FY2025-26 North-based mills continued to dominate during the first half of the fiscal year. Domestic dispatches from the North rose by 14.67% to 17.915 million tons, while exports declined by 18.53% to 808,506 tons. Overall, total dispatches from the region increased by 12.68% to 18.723 million tons. South-based mills also posted moderate growth. Domestic dispatches increased by 5.22% to 3.237 million tons, while exports remained largely flat at 3.822 million tons. As a result, total dispatches from the southern region rose by 2.39% to 7.059 million tons. Outlook for Pakistan Cement Industry The data from Pakistan cement dispatches December 2025 confirms a clear shift toward domestic market strength. While export challenges persist, rising local consumption offers stability and growth potential for cement manufacturers in the coming quarters. Industry analysts expect domestic demand to remain supportive, particularly if infrastructure spending and housing activity continue to improve in 2026.

Pakistan Sentences 8 Journalists to Life imprisonment Over Pro-Imran Khan Online Posts
Pakistan

Pakistan Sentences 8 Journalists to Life imprisonment Over Pro-Imran Khan Online Posts

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In a sharp escalation of the crackdown on dissent, a Pakistani anti-terrorism court in Lahore sentenced eight prominent journalists, analysts, and former military officers to life imprisonment on January 2, 2026. The convictions, handed down in absentia, stem from terrorism charges tied to their online content supporting jailed ex-Prime Minister Imran Khan amid the violent unrest that erupted after his brief arrest in May 2023. The ruling includes additional fines and further jail time if unpaid, with sentences subject to confirmation by the Islamabad High Court. Read More: https://theboardroompk.com/imran-khan-and-bushra-bibi-sentenced-to-17-years-in-toshakhana-case/ Convictions Linked to May 9, 2023 Protests The charges relate to social media posts and commentary that authorities claim promoted “fear and unrest,” classified as terrorism under Pakistani law. The May 9 protests saw Khan’s supporters attack military installations following his short detention in a graft case, sparking a nationwide military-backed crackdown. Among the convicted are former army officers-turned-YouTubers Adil Raja and Syed Akbar Hussain, journalists Wajahat Saeed Khan (based in New York), Sabir Shakir, and Shaheen Sehbai, commentator Haider Raza Mehdi, and analyst Moeed Pirzada. Most fled Pakistan years ago and did not appear in court. Wajahat Saeed Khan denounced the verdict as “political theater” without due process. The Committee to Protect Journalists (CPJ) condemned the move as intimidation against critical media.

Pakistan Unveils Sultan Super Basmati: World's Longest Grain in National Basmati Spectrum
Pakistan

Pakistan Unveils Sultan Super Basmati: World’s Longest Grain in National Basmati Spectrum

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Pakistani agricultural scientists have achieved a significant milestone in rice breeding with the development of Sultan Super Basmati, a new variety boasting an unprecedented raw grain length of 9.66mm—the longest in Pakistan’s rice history. Announced on January 3, 2026, by the Rice Research Institute (RRI) in Kala Shah Kaku, the variety also elongates to up to 20mm when cooked, combining superior aroma, excellent cooking quality, and high yield potential. This innovation builds on Pakistan’s renowned Basmati legacy and promises to strengthen the country’s position in global premium rice markets. Record-Breaking Grain Length and Superior Quality Dr. Usman Saleem, Senior Scientist at RRI, highlighted that Sultan Super Basmati surpasses previous records, including the 9.5mm of Sona Super Basmati (developed in 2023) and the 8.26mm of Kainat Basmati. The grains cook evenly with outstanding elongation, retaining the characteristic strong Basmati fragrance. Though slightly late-sown, it matures in line with common Basmati types, making it farmer-friendly. Read More: https://theboardroompk.com/pakistan-fertilizer-sector-urea-sales-set-a-historic-record/ Boost for Yields, Exports, and Farmer Prosperity With a yield potential of up to 77 maunds per acre—far exceeding the 45-maund average of existing varieties—the new rice addresses productivity challenges while maintaining export-grade quality. Taufiq Ahmad Khan, former senior vice chairman of the Rice Exporters Association of Pakistan (REAP), emphasized the global demand for extra-long grains, urging rapid farmer adoption to build exportable surplus. The RRI, with a century-long history, continues breeding efforts on three more advanced Basmati lines.

Port Qasim to Construct Two Modern Mooring Boats
Pakistan

Port Qasim to Construct Two Modern Mooring Boats

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The Port Qasim Authority (PQA) is pleased to announce a long-awaited milestone with the signing of a Supply/Construction Contract for two (02) Mooring Boats with Karachi Shipyard & Engineering Works on 01 January 2026. This achievement is not only a testament to PQA’s continued efforts toward modernizing port infrastructure, but also a strong reflection of its commitment to excellence, ensuring that all foreign-going vessels are safely moored and un-moored at PQA Harbour. The contract further demonstrates PQA’s active pursuit of the Government’s directive to promote reliance on the indigenous shipbuilding industry. Read More: https://theboardroompk.com/irans-foreign-trade-tops-85-billion-in-first-nine-months-despite-value-decline/ This project represents the dedication and hard work of the PQA team and underscores the Authority’s sustained investment in the future of Pakistan’s maritime industry and national economy. As PQA continues to expand through the development of new berths and the deepening of existing channels, these mooring boats will form an essential component of port operations. They will enable PQA to effectively manage the growing volume of maritime traffic while maintaining the highest standards of safety and operational efficiency. The Port Qasim Authority (PQA) is pleased to announce a long-awaited milestone with the signing of a Supply/Construction Contract for two (02) Mooring Boats with Karachi Shipyard & Engineering Works on 01 January 2026. This achievement is not only a testament to PQA’s continued efforts toward modernizing port infrastructure, but also a strong reflection of its commitment to excellence, ensuring that all foreign-going vessels are safely moored and un-moored at PQA Harbour. The contract further demonstrates PQA’s active pursuit of the Government’s directive to promote reliance on the indigenous shipbuilding industry.This project represents the dedication and hard work of the PQA team and underscores the Authority’s sustained investment in the future of Pakistan’s maritime industry and national economy. As PQA continues to expand through the development of new berths and the deepening of existing channels, these mooring boats will form an essential component of port operations. They will enable PQA to effectively manage the growing volume of maritime traffic while maintaining the highest standards of safety and operational efficiency.

Speed Breeding, NARC Islamabad, Smart Glasshouse
Pakistan

Pakistan Launches Advanced Speed Breeding Facilities to Boost Crop Security

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Federal Minister for National Food Security and Research Rana Tanveer Hussain inaugurated groundbreaking Speed Breeding facilities for wheat and pulses, along with Pakistan’s first Intelligent IoT-Based Smart Glasshouse at the National Agricultural Research Centre (NARC) in Islamabad. This milestone event, hailed as the beginning of a new era in agricultural research, aims to revolutionize crop improvement through accelerated breeding techniques and smart technologies. The facilities, funded under PSDP projects, will significantly shorten breeding cycles, enhance genetic gains, and bolster food and nutritional security amid climate challenges. Chairman PARC Dr. Syed Murtaza Hassan Andrabi played a pivotal role in conceptualizing and operationalizing these initiatives. Speed Breeding Revolution for Key Crops The wheat facility at the Crop Sciences Institute enables 5-6 generations per year by using extended photoperiods (up to 22 hours), LED lighting, and precise environmental controls—reducing the typical 14-year varietal development timeline by half. Over 3,000 new wheat lines are already in yield trials, while the pulses facility (first of its kind) targets chickpea, lentil, mung bean, and mash, achieving 4-6 generations annually to address low productivity and climate vulnerabilities. Read More: https://theboardroompk.com/pakistan-railways-reclaims-3509-sq-ft-in-rawalpindi-anti-encroachment-drive/ Smart Glasshouse: Precision Meets Innovation Spanning 2,640 square feet at NIGAB, the IoT-based smart glasshouse features fully automated sensors, AI-driven controls, and real-time data analytics for genome-assisted breeding, stress biology, and phenotyping. It supports heat stress screening, generation advancement, aquaponics, and gene-edited plant acclimatization—positioning NARC as a hub for climate-smart, resource-efficient agriculture

The Boardroom PK delivers trusted business news, analysis, and insights from Pakistan and beyond, keeping readers informed, inspired, and ahead in the evolving world of business and leadership.

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