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Policy Instability and Rising Costs Threaten Ghee Industry: PVMA Chairman Warns
Pakistan

Policy Instability and Rising Costs Threaten Ghee Industry: PVMA Chairman Warns

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KARACHI: An Extraordinary General Body Meeting of the Pakistan Vanaspati Manufacturers Association (PVMA) was held under the chairmanship of Sheikh Umer Rehan, where participants discussed in detail the challenges confronting the ghee and cooking oil industry, government policies, raw material situation, taxation, regulatory matters, and the prevailing economic conditions affecting the sector, particularly difficulties related to freight and transportation costs. The meeting was attended by PVMA Senior Vice Chairman Asjad Arif, Vice Chairman Sheikh Khalid Islam, Special Assistant to the Chief Minister Punjab on Food Security Salma Butt, prominent business leader and former provincial minister S M Tanveer, along with industrialists and association members from across the country.Various agenda items related to the industry were discussed in detail, while participants also deliberated on future strategies for the sector. Speaking on the occasion, Chairman PVMA Sheikh Umer Rehan said that the ghee and cooking oil industry is a key pillar of the country’s food supply chain. However, he noted that the sector is currently under severe pressure due to prevailing economic conditions, rising production costs, fluctuations in imported raw material prices, frequent changes in petroleum prices causing instability in freight charges, and various regulatory challenges. He stressed that continuous engagement with the government and relevant institutions, along with effective policymaking, was essential for placing the industry on sustainable footing. He further emphasized that the industry remains fully committed to providing quality and safe food products to consumers, but rising business costs and policy instability are adversely affecting industrial activities.Sheikh Umer Rehan stated that if the industry is provided with a conducive business environment, it would not only increase investment but also create new employment opportunities. Addressing the meeting, Salma Butt said that Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif has a clear policy to promote industrialization and facilitate the business community in order to strengthen the economy. She said the Punjab government believes in working closely with the private sector for food security, quality food standards, and the development of the food industry. She assured participants that the issues faced by industrialists would be taken up with the relevant forums on a priority basis to further improve the business environment. S M Tanveer said that continuity in policies, a business-friendly environment, and restoration of industrialists’ confidence are essential for Pakistan’s industrial growth. He added that the edible oil and ghee industry plays a significant role in the national economy, and resolving the issues faced by the sector would help promote investment and economic activity. Participants reaffirmed their commitment that PVMA would continue playing its role in resolving industry issues, promoting quality production, and ensuring the supply of safe food products to consumers.

PTA Extends SIM Disown Period to 365 Days
Pakistan

PTA Extends SIM Disown Period to 365 Days

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Pakistan Telecommunication Authority has introduced a major policy change aimed at discouraging the frequent transfer and disposal of SIM cards across Pakistan. Under the new rules, the PTA has extended the SIM disown period from 60 days to 365 days. This means an active SIM card registered under a citizen’s name cannot be removed or transferred for one full year. According to reports, the measure is part of broader efforts to strengthen digital security and prevent the misuse of mobile connections. SIM Ownership Cannot Be Changed for One Year The new PTA policy makes it mandatory for users to retain ownership of a registered Subscriber Identity Module for at least 365 days before any disowning request can be processed. Officials believe the move will help reduce illegal SIM transfers and improve accountability in mobile communication systems. The authority has once again urged citizens to remain careful while providing biometric verification for the issuance of SIM cards. PTA warned users not to allow unauthorized individuals to use their biometric information for mobile registrations. PTA Warns Users About Expired CNICs Earlier, the PTA advised mobile phone users to ensure their National Database and Registration Authority records remain valid and updated to avoid service interruptions. The authority stated that SIM cards registered against expired, cancelled, or deceased Computerised National Identity Cards are being blocked as part of nationwide digital security measures. PTA urged citizens to renew their CNICs through NADRA to prevent the suspension of mobile services. Authorities Stress Importance of Updated Records In its statement, PTA highlighted the importance of uninterrupted mobile connectivity and secure communication services. The authority advised users to keep their personal information updated with mobile operators and ensure timely verification of identity documents through NADRA. Officials said these steps are necessary to improve national digital security and prevent misuse of mobile networks for illegal activities. Digital Security Measures Continue Pakistan has introduced several regulatory measures in recent years to strengthen oversight of mobile communication services and reduce cyber related risks. The latest decision regarding SIM ownership is expected to impact millions of mobile users across the country. Authorities believe the policy will improve transparency in SIM registration and discourage fraudulent practices involving biometric verification and unauthorized transfers. Citizens have been advised to follow PTA and NADRA guidelines carefully to avoid disruptions in mobile services or complications related to SIM ownership.

NADRA Introduces New CNIC Rules for First Time Applicants
Pakistan

NADRA Introduces New CNIC Rules for First Time Applicants

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National Database and Registration Authority has introduced new rules for the issuance of Computerized National Identity Cards to simplify the process for first time applicants across Pakistan. Under the revised regulations, NADRA has made signatures optional for individuals applying for a CNIC for the first time. Officials said that if an applicant does not provide a signature, the letters “NA” will appear in the signature section of the identity card. The authority clarified that it will not print thumb impressions or alternative marks in place of signatures on CNICs. NADRA also confirmed that thumbprint images will not be used due to concerns related to forgery and misuse. NADRA Launches Awareness Campaign A spokesperson for NADRA said the authority has started an awareness campaign targeting illiterate citizens and people who cannot sign documents. The authority has also instructed applicants using the mobile application not to upload thumbprint images during the submission process. Officials stated that any future addition or modification of a signature on a CNIC will require a formal correction request through the proper procedure. NADRA said the new policy aims to improve transparency while making the identity card application process easier and more secure for citizens. Citizens Advised to Renew CNICs Before June 30 Earlier, NADRA warned citizens about possible increases in service charges and penalties linked to identity card and child registration services after the federal budget for 2026 and 2027. The authority urged people to renew expired CNICs and complete registration of children’s B Forms before June 30, 2026. Officials indicated that revised fees could take effect in the new fiscal year. In its public advisory, NADRA encouraged parents to register children who still do not possess a B Form. It also advised eligible citizens to convert existing B Forms into Smart National Identity Cards where applicable. Officials warned that failure to complete documentation within the given deadline could lead to penalties or additional charges. New Firearms Licence Validity System Introduced Separately, NADRA recently introduced a new system regarding the validity of federal firearms licences following directives from the Ministry of Interior Pakistan. According to an official awareness video released by the authority, the previous system caused all firearms licences to expire every year on December 31. Officials said this created administrative challenges and inconvenience for licence holders. The new measures are aimed at improving efficiency and making public services more convenient for citizens. Efforts to Improve Public Services NADRA has introduced several digital reforms in recent years to improve public access to identity and registration services. Officials say the authority continues to focus on reducing procedural difficulties while strengthening security measures against fraud and document misuse. The latest CNIC policy is expected to benefit thousands of first time applicants, especially those unable to provide signatures due to literacy or physical limitations. Authorities have advised citizens to remain updated through official NADRA announcements and complete pending documentation before the end of June to avoid additional costs.

Turkish Cuisine Week 2026 Celebrates Culinary Heritage with “The Heritage Table” Theme
Pakistan

Turkish Cuisine Week 2026 Celebrates Culinary Heritage with “The Heritage Table” Theme

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Karachi: The Ministry of Culture and Tourism of the Republic of Türkiye has announced “The Heritage Table” as the official theme for Turkish Cuisine Week 2026, celebrating the cultural stories, traditions, and shared memories preserved through Turkish cuisine. Turkish Cuisine Week will be observed from May 21 to 27, 2026 across Türkiye and at Turkish diplomatic missions and cultural centers worldwide under the patronage of First Lady Emine Erdoğan. The annual event showcases Türkiye’s rich culinary heritage and its role in connecting people and cultures. This year’s theme presents Turkish cuisine as more than just food, highlighting it as a living cultural heritage shaped over centuries through migration, traditions, rituals, and communal dining experiences. Planned activities during the week include chef collaborations, traditional cooking demonstrations, communal dining events, and presentations of historic recipes and culinary techniques. On the occasion of Turkish Cuisine Week, İrfan Neziroğlu hosted a special dinner featuring traditional Turkish dishes at the Turkish Embassy Residence on May 20, 2026. Speaking at the event, Ambassador Neziroğlu said Turkish Cuisine Week provides an opportunity to share the spirit of Turkish hospitality and cultural heritage with the people of Pakistan. He noted that this year marks the fifth global celebration of Turkish Cuisine Week. He further stated that the Turkish dining table, or “sofra,” symbolizes togetherness and reflects the warmth of Turkish hospitality while emphasizing the healthy, traditional, and zero-waste nature of Turkish cuisine. Featured dishes for this year’s celebrations include Mantı, Tandır, Dolma, Baklava, and Helva, each representing different aspects of Türkiye’s culinary identity and cultural storytelling. Tourism and cultural officials stated that Turkish Cuisine Week continues to strengthen cultural exchange and promote Türkiye’s rich gastronomic traditions to audiences around the world through events hosted internationally.

Government of Sindh and Karachi Metropolitan Corporation, and The Citizens Archive of Pakistan Host Groundbreaking Ceremony of Karachi Museum of History
Editor pick, Pakistan

Government of Sindh and Karachi Metropolitan Corporation,  and The Citizens Archive of Pakistan Host Groundbreaking Ceremony of Karachi Museum of History

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New digitally interactive museum to preserve and celebrate the history and heritage of Sindh and the Pakistan independence movement [Karachi, 23rd May 2026] The Government of Sindh’s Culture through its Tourism, Antiquities & Archives Department and the Karachi Metropolitan Corporation (KMC), in collaboration with The Citizens Archive of Pakistan (CAP), marked the groundbreaking of the Karachi Museum of History on May 23, 2026, at Beach view Park, Karachi, formally initiating the development of a major new public cultural institution for the city. Planned as a landmark cultural and educational space, the Karachi Museum of History will be a digitally interactive museum dedicated to preserving, documenting, and celebrating the history and heritage of Sindh and the Pakistan movement. The initiative builds on CAP’s longstanding commitment to public history and cultural preservation, following the launch of the National History Museum in Lahore in partnership with the Government of Punjab in 2017. The groundbreaking ceremony was attended by key government officials and civil society members, including the Honourable Chief Minister of Sindh, Syed Murad Ali Shah; Chief Secretary Sindh, Syed Asif Hyder Shah; Honourable Provincial Minister for Culture, Tourism, Antiquities & Archives, Government of Sindh, Syed Zulfiqar Ali Shah; Mayor Karachi, Barrister Murtaza Wahab Siddiqui; representatives of the Karachi Metropolitan Corporation; and members of The Citizens Archive of Pakistan, including Sharmeen Obaid-Chinoy, Patron-in-Chief, CAP, and members from the business community. The ceremony featured remarks by the Chief Minister of Sindh, the Provincial Minister for Culture, Tourism, Antiquities & Archives, the Mayor of Karachi, and Sharmeen Obaid-Chinoy, followed by a ceremonial groundbreaking and the unveiling of a plaque to mark the formal commencement of the project. The Karachi Museum of History will build on globally recognized museum practices to create an immersive cultural institution that brings Pakistan’s independence and Sindh’s 5,000-year history to life through storytelling, technology, archival material, and interactive experiences. Conceived as a dynamic civic space, the museum will document Karachi’s layered histories and foreground the voices, memories, and communities that shaped the city. At a time of rapid urban transformation, the project responds to the need for public institutions in Pakistan that preserve cultural memory while remaining accessible, contemporary, and community-driven. Through innovative exhibition design, oral history, research, and public engagement, the museum aims to become a landmark destination for culture, education, and tourism in Karachi. Honourable Syed Murad Ali Shah, Chief Minister of Sindh, said, “Karachi is not only a city of commerce and opportunity; it is a living archive of our collective memory, resilience, and cultural diversity. The Karachi Museum of History will preserve that legacy for generations to come.” Syed Zulfiqar Ali Shah, Honourable Provincial Minister for Culture, Tourism, Antiquities, Archives Department, Government of Sindh, said, “The Karachi Museum of History reflects this department’s commitment to ensuring that Sindh’s extraordinary heritage is preserved, celebrated, and made accessible to all citizens. Through our partnership with the Karachi Metropolitan Corporation and the Citizens Archive of Pakistan, we are creating an institution that will anchor Karachi’s cultural landscape for decades to come”. “Karachi is one of the great cities of the world – a city built by migration, resilience, and an extraordinary diversity of people and cultures. For too long, it has lacked a civic institution that reflects that richness. The Karachi Museum of History will change that. The Karachi Metropolitan Corporation is proud to play its part in delivering a landmark that belongs to every resident of this city”, added Mayor Murtaza Wahab Siddiqui. Sharmeen Obaid-Chinoy, Patron-in-Chief, The Citizens Archive of Pakistan, said,“As Pakistan approaches the 80th anniversary of its independence, this partnership with the Government of Sindh and the Karachi Metropolitan Corporation is an opportunity to create a lasting home for the stories that shaped our nation. The museum will honor the people who fought for Pakistan’s independence, celebrate the rich history and culture of Sindh, and reflect the resilience, hope, and extraordinary spirit of Karachi, a city that has carried the dreams of generations from across the country. We hope it becomes a place where people can see themselves, their histories, and their shared future reflected back to them”. Ahsan Najmi, President, The Citizens Archive of Pakistan, added, “This groundbreaking represents years of work and a shared conviction that Karachi’s communities deserve to see their histories honoured in a permanent, public space. The museum will be research-driven and community-centred, built to display the past and spark dialogue about who we are and where we come from. We could not have reached this milestone without the commitment of the Government of Sindh, its Culture, Tourism, Antiquities, and Archives Department, and the Karachi Metropolitan Corporation. We are eternally grateful for their partnership”. The ceremony reflects a shared commitment between the Government of Sindh, Karachi Metropolitan Corporation and The Citizens Archive of Pakistan to strengthen heritage and cultural preservation through the development of Karachi Museum of History, as an inclusive, research-driven, and public-centered institution – one that preserves the past while engaging new generations in meaningful dialogue about Pakistan’s cultural identity. For more information, visit: https://www.instagram.com/citizensarchive/ About The Citizens Archive of Pakistan: The Citizens Archive of Pakistan (CAP) is a not-for-profit organisation founded in 2007, dedicated to cultural and historical preservation. CAP’s Board of Directors includes: Sharmeen Obaid-Chinoy, Ahsan Najmi, Jahanzeb Awan, Ziad Bashir, Sara Taher Khan, Salim Karim, Rishm Najm, Reema Gani, Jalal Salahuddin, Sabeen Jatoi and Sumaira Khan.

PM Shehbaz Sharif Arrives in Hangzhou for Official Visit to China
Pakistan

PM Shehbaz Sharif Arrives in Hangzhou for Official Visit to China

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ISLAMABAD – Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif arrived in Hangzhou, China on Saturday, marking the beginning of his four-day official visit aimed at strengthening bilateral ties between Pakistan and China. Read More: https://theboardroompk.com/pakistans-mobile-phone-assembly-drops-sharply-by-35-in-april-2026/ The Prime Minister was received at Xiaoshan International Airport by Vice Governor of Zhejiang Province Xu Wenguang, China’s Ambassador to Pakistan Jiang Zaidong, and Pakistan’s Ambassador to China Khalil Hashmi. High-Level Engagements in Hangzhou During his stay in Hangzhou, PM Shehbaz Sharif is scheduled to meet Zhejiang Party Secretary Wang Hao. He will also participate in a business forum focused on promoting cooperation between Pakistani and Chinese companies under Phase-II of the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC).The Prime Minister is expected to witness the signing of several agreements and Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs) during the forum. Focus on Economic Cooperation PM Shehbaz will also meet chief executive officers of leading Chinese companies and visit the headquarters of Alibaba Group. These engagements are expected to open new avenues for investment, technology transfer, and industrial collaboration between the two countries.The visit comes as Pakistan and China celebrate 75 years of diplomatic relations.

Two Pakistani Astronauts Begin Joint Training with Chinese Counterparts for Historic Space Mission
Pakistan

Two Pakistani Astronauts Begin Joint Training with Chinese Counterparts for Historic Space Mission

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BEIJING – Two Pakistani astronauts have entered the China Astronaut Research and Training Center and are undergoing joint training with Chinese astronauts, the China Manned Space Agency (CMSA) announced on Saturday. Read More: https://theboardroompk.com/pakistans-mobile-phone-assembly-drops-sharply-by-35-in-april-2026/ The development marks a significant milestone in Pakistan-China cooperation in the space sector. Muhammad Zeeshan Ali and Khurram Daud were selected in April as the first foreign astronauts for China’s space mission training program. Training Program Details The Pakistani astronauts are participating in core training programs, intensive Chinese-language courses for daily operations and mission terminology, and in-orbit coordination exercises. The training is progressing smoothly, with a strong focus on practical operational skills. One of the two astronauts will eventually fly on a short-duration mission to the Tiangong space station as a payload specialist. Historic Milestone in Bilateral Space Ties This collaboration comes on the occasion of China Space Day and highlights the deepening strategic partnership between Pakistan and China. Upon successful completion of training and evaluation, one Pakistani astronaut will become the first foreign national to board China’s Tiangong space station.

Govt Considers Revising Export Facilitation Scheme to Curb Flying Invoices
Pakistan

Govt Considers Revising Export Facilitation Scheme to Curb Flying Invoices

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The federal government is considering major changes to the Export Facilitation Scheme in the upcoming 2026–27 budget to prevent the alleged misuse of flying invoices by commercial importers in local markets. According to sources quoted by Business Recorder, policymakers are reviewing proposals to withdraw tax exemptions currently available to commercial importers under the scheme. The move aims to tighten oversight, increase tax collection, and create a level playing field for documented industries. Proposal Targets Misuse of Flying Invoices Officials said one of the key proposals under discussion involves ending the facility that allows commercial importers under the Export Facilitation Scheme to transfer sales tax invoices in the domestic market. Documented sectors, including the steel industry, have urged the government to remove these exemptions, arguing that the existing framework enables widespread misuse through flying invoices and input tax manipulation. Industry representatives claim that businesses operating transparently and paying taxes are struggling to compete against traders who allegedly evade duties and taxes through loopholes in the system. Steel Industry Raises Concerns Over Unfair Competition Leading companies in the documented steel sector have reportedly informed authorities that the current system has distorted competition in the local market. They argue that tax compliant manufacturers are facing financial pressure while undocumented operators gain unfair advantages through lower costs. The industry has demanded immediate reforms to stop revenue leakages and restore fair market conditions. Stakeholders also called for rationalization of Serial Number 57 of Table 2 under the Sixth Schedule of the Sales Tax Act, which deals with tax exemptions. Officials believe revising this provision could help curb the misuse of input tax claims. Govt Reviewing Reduction in Discount Rate Another proposal under review seeks to reduce the discount rate at the import stage from 17.5 percent to zero under the scheme. Industry representatives argue that the deferment of value addition sales tax has caused substantial revenue losses for the Federal Board of Revenue while also creating price distortions in the steel scrap market. According to stakeholders, different tax treatments for the same imported products have affected landed costs and disrupted competition across the sector. Budget 2026–27 May Include EFS Reforms The proposed changes are expected to be discussed as part of the federal budget for fiscal year 2026–27. Officials say the government wants to strengthen documentation of the economy while reducing opportunities for tax evasion and fraudulent invoicing practices. Business groups from documented sectors insist that reforms to the Export Facilitation Scheme are necessary to protect tax compliant industries and improve government revenue collection. The government has not yet made a final decision, but consultations with industries and tax authorities are continuing ahead of the budget announcement.

State Bank of Pakistan Closed 26–28 May for Eid-ul-Adha 🕌
Pakistan

State Bank of Pakistan Closed 26–28 May for Eid-ul-Adha

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Karachi (May 22, 2026): The State Bank of Pakistan (SBP) has announced that it will remain closed from Tuesday, 26th May to Thursday, 28th May 2026, on account of public holidays for Eid-ul-Adha. Read More: https://theboardroompk.com/chief-justices-cockroach-taunt-created-a-new-political-force-in-india-cockroach-janta-party/ All banking activities including clearing house operations, inter-bank transactions, and other services at the central bank will be suspended during these three days. Commercial banks across Pakistan are also expected to observe the holidays in line with the SBP announcement. Customers are advised to complete their essential banking transactions before the closure. Normal operations will resume on Friday, 29th May 2026.

PM Shehbaz Sharif Embarks on Strategic Visit to China
Pakistan

PM Shehbaz Sharif Embarks on Strategic Visit to China

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Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif will undertake an official visit to China from May 23 to 26 at the invitation of the Chinese government. This visit coincides with the 75th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Pakistan and China. High-Level Engagements Expected The Prime Minister is scheduled to hold crucial meetings with Chinese President Xi Jinping and Premier Li Qiang. These discussions will focus on reviewing and expanding bilateral cooperation across political, economic, and strategic domains. Focus on Economic and Trade Cooperation Special emphasis will be placed on trade, investment, industrial cooperation, agricultural modernisation, information technology, and science & technology collaboration. The visit aims to take the all-weather strategic cooperative partnership to new heights. Prime Minister Shehbaz will begin his visit in Hangzhou, Zhejiang province, where he will chair the Pakistan-China Business-to-Business Investment Conference. The conference will target key sectors including IT, telecom, energy, energy storage, and agriculture. In Beijing, he will attend a special reception hosted by the Chinese People’s Association for Friendship with Foreign Countries to mark the 75th anniversary celebrations. Foreign Office spokesperson Tahir Andrabi described the visit as highly significant, noting it will help reaffirm the strength of Pakistan-China friendship and advance the vision of building a closer community with a shared future. The spokesperson highlighted that both nations have stood by each other through thick and thin for the past 75 years. Pakistan and China established diplomatic relations on May 21, 1951, and their partnership has grown into one of the most important relationships in the region, especially through the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC). While bilateral relations remain the primary focus, regional issues including Iran-US tensions may also come under discussion. The visit is expected to further strengthen political trust and expand practical cooperation between the two countries.

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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