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IMF Warns ZTBL Privatisation May Cut Off Small Farmers From Credit
Pakistan

IMF Warns ZTBL Privatisation May Cut Off Small Farmers From Credit

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The International Monetary Fund (IMF) has warned that Pakistan’s plan to privatise Zarai Taraqiati Bank Limited (ZTBL) may threaten credit access for millions of small farmers who depend on the country’s only specialised agricultural lender. The IMF flagged the concern in its Governance and Corruption Diagnostic report, published on the finance ministry’s website. The fund noted that depending on its form, ZTBL privatisation could raise issues of access to credit for smallholders, particularly for their development financing. The warning supports concerns raised earlier by several cabinet ministers and parliamentarians who opposed the sale on similar grounds. Pakistan’s 7th Agricultural Census 2024 shows that 97% of the country’s farmers own less than 12.5 acres of land. These small landholdings generate little savings. Poor farmers live crop to crop and rely on ZTBL and middlemen for working capital. Conventional banks rarely lend to this segment. They have also shown little appetite for government-backed schemes, approving barely 10% of applications under the prime minister’s electric bikes programme. ZTBL’s management has made significant progress in cleaning up the bank’s finances. According to the latest unaudited financial statement for the period ending December 2024, the bank reduced non-performing loans to Rs50 billion. That marks a 25% reduction in bad loans over three years. In the last year alone, bad loans fell by Rs8 billion, or 14%. Management credits the turnaround to breaking the corruption nexus that plagued the bank before 2022. The government also revised the Loans for Agriculture, Commercial and Industrial Purposes Act, helping the bank recover Rs9.8 billion over three years. The IMF had reviewed ZTBL through a governance lens and noted its very high share of non-performing loans due to poor governance. The fund acknowledged that new management had taken steps to recover problem loans. Cumulative gross profit over the past three years reached Rs70 billion, roughly 280% higher than the combined profit earned in the previous 20 years. The bank’s tax contributions reached Rs27 billion over the same period. Equity rose to approximately Rs95 billion by September 2024, up from Rs60 billion in December 2022. Despite this turnaround, the government is pushing ahead with ZTBL privatisation. The Privatisation Commission board recently recommended a transaction structure for the sale to the Cabinet Committee on Privatisation. Sources say there were divisions within the board over the proposed structure. Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif held discussions with stakeholders and his kitchen cabinet before the decision. Views remained split. Conventional banks have shown reluctance to fund the prime minister’s housing scheme without sweeping authority to seize homes after a third default notice. Total credit disbursements by ZTBL reached Rs250 billion over the last three years. This includes Rs42 billion released under the prime minister’s Kissan package. A senior ZTBL management official called the period a historic turnaround. Bad loan recoveries reached record levels while disbursements to farmers also jumped during the period ending December 2025. The scale of small-farm poverty makes the stakes high. The 2024 census shows 26% of farmers own less than one acre, up sharply from 15% in 2010. About 35% own less than 2.5 acres. Combined, 61% of Pakistan’s farmers hold less than 2.5 acres. Low yields and outdated techniques make these holdings unable to generate decent incomes. At the other end of the scale, only 16,958 landlords own more than 100 acres, holding 6.2% of total farmland. Critics argue that selling a reformed and profitable bank — one that serves borrowers no private lender will touch — undermines the very farmers the government claims to support. The IMF’s note is a rare public signal that the fund itself shares those concerns.

Pakistan’s first national platform dedicated to the medical device sector unveiled
Pakistan

Pakistan’s first national platform dedicated to the medical device sector unveiled

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Pakistan’s healthcare sector marked a significant milestone with the inauguration of the Institute of Pakistan Medical Device Industry, the country’s first national platform dedicated to the medical device sector. The event brought together industrialists, academicians, policymakers, and representatives from regulatory and public health institutions to initiate a more structured national dialogue on the future of healthcare manufacturing in Pakistan. The inauguration served as a key platform for stakeholders to discuss strengthening Pakistan’s capabilities in medical technology, diagnostics, and healthcare innovation. During the discussions, speakers openly addressed the structural challenges facing the industry, including limited resources, inconsistent industrial support, and the urgent need for more growth-oriented and industry-friendly policies. Participants emphasized that without a coherent framework encouraging innovation, investment, and local production, the healthcare sector would continue struggling to meet the demands of a rapidly growing population. Representatives from major institutions, including the Drug Regulatory Authority of Pakistan, Health Services Academy, and COMSATS University Islamabad, attended the event and expressed strong support for the initiative. They highlighted the importance of creating a unified platform capable of shaping the strategic and operational direction of Pakistan’s medical device industry. A major theme of the event was the relationship between academia and industry. Speakers stressed that collaboration between educational institutions and the healthcare manufacturing sector is essential for national progress. Such partnerships, they noted, would promote research and innovation while preparing students, researchers, and professionals with industry-relevant skills and practical exposure. The discussions also focused heavily on public health challenges, particularly Pakistan’s rising disease burden from infections such as Hepatitis C and HIV. Concerns were raised over the increasing number of HIV cases and the ongoing difficulties related to diagnosis, treatment accessibility, and containment efforts. In response, speakers strongly advocated for locally manufactured and cost-effective healthcare solutions, emphasizing that indigenous diagnostic technologies and medical devices could provide more sustainable and affordable responses to public health crises, especially in underserved communities. The concluding remarks reinforced the importance of building national confidence in local manufacturing and healthcare programmes. Participants stated that with supportive policies, institutional collaboration, and trust in domestic industry, Pakistan could significantly strengthen its public health system and improve outcomes in the fight against diseases such as Hepatitis C and HIV. The launch of the Institute of Pakistan Medical Device Industry was described not merely as the establishment of a new institution, but as the beginning of a broader movement toward healthcare self-reliance, industrial resilience, and a more sustainable future for public health in Pakistan.

AI Strategy Roundtable at Aga Khan University Brings Together Pakistan’s Leading CIOs
Pakistan

AI Strategy Roundtable at Aga Khan University Brings Together Pakistan’s Leading CIOs

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Karachi, Pakistan — The Aga Khan University (AKU) hosted a high-impact AI Strategy Roundtable, bringing together over 30 leading Chief Information Officers (CIOs) from across Pakistan to advance dialogue on AI policy, strategy, and implementation. The event highlighted AKU’s leadership in AI through the sharing of its AI Policy Framework and practical strategy insights. The session opened with remarks from Dr. Stephen Lyon, Dean of the Faculty of Arts and Sciences, and Muhammad Fahd, Regional Director of ICT. They were joined by Azhar Nawaz, Group CDIO of Fauji Fertilizer Company (FFC), who welcomed members of the CIO Executive Network to this important and collaborative session. Dr. Zainab Samad, Chair of the Department of Medicine, presented AKU’s progress in data science and AI, followed by Shumail Khalid, Director of Data and Analytics, who outlined AKU’s strategic approach to scaling AI initiatives. A thought-provoking perspective was shared by Dr. Jameel Ahmed Khan, focusing on the role of AI in enhancing quality of life beyond 65. Participants engaged in a structured workshop to collaboratively identify priorities and recommendations for AI adoption in Pakistan. In closing, Dr. Farhat Abbas, CEO of Aga Khan University Health System (Pakistan), emphasized the need for practical AI solutions to transform healthcare delivery. Shaukat Ali Khan, Advisor to the President of AKU, underscored the importance of collective innovation, advocating for leveraging data-driven solutions and scaling the “Best of Pakistan to the Rest of Pakistan.” The roundtable marked a significant step toward building a collaborative AI ecosystem to drive national impact.

The State Bank of Pakistan (SBP) extends crude oil import permission on Cost Insurance and Freight basis until July 10 2026. The central bank issued a circular to authorized dealers confirming the two-month extension. The move aims to ensure uninterrupted fuel supplies across the country amid continued volatility in global energy markets. Background of the Decision The SBP had first granted this relaxation on March 11 2026. It issued that initial permission through EPD Circular Letter No. 04. The original window covered 60 days. Sharp fluctuations in global oil prices triggered the decision. Geopolitical tensions and supply concerns in international markets drove those price swings. The central bank acted quickly to protect Pakistan's energy supply chain. What the Extension Means The SBP extends crude oil import permission to give oil marketing companies and refineries more room to operate. Industry sources say the move supports efficient supply chain management. Global energy markets remain uncertain. Pakistan needs a stable import framework to counter those risks. The CIF mechanism places the burden of cost insurance and freight on the seller. That arrangement benefits Pakistani importers directly. It reduces their operational complexity. It also helps ensure timely delivery of petroleum products at destination ports. SBP Directive to Authorized Dealers The State Bank directed all authorized dealers to act on the revised instructions immediately. Dealers must inform their concerned clients and ensure strict compliance. The circular stated clearly that the relaxation validity now runs until July 10 2026. No ambiguity remains about the new deadline. Banks and financial institutions handling import transactions must align their processes accordingly. Why This Matters for Pakistan Pakistan depends heavily on imported petroleum products. The country uses crude oil and refined fuels to power industry transport and households. Any disruption in import arrangements creates ripple effects across the economy. Fuel shortages push up prices. They slow down industrial output. They create pressure on foreign exchange reserves as emergency procurement becomes costlier. The SBP extends crude oil import permission precisely to avoid these outcomes. A predictable and flexible import policy gives refineries time to plan purchases. It allows oil marketing companies to negotiate better supply contracts. It reduces the risk of sudden fuel shortfalls in domestic markets. Global Context International oil markets have remained turbulent throughout early 2026. Geopolitical tensions continue to affect supply routes and pricing. Several major oil-producing regions face uncertainty. Prices have moved sharply in both directions. Pakistan is not isolated from these pressures. The country spends billions of dollars annually on petroleum imports. A stable import mechanism directly supports the broader balance of payments. The central bank recognized this reality in March. It acted again now by extending the relief period. Policymakers are clearly watching global developments closely. Further extensions remain possible if market conditions do not stabilize before July. Industry Response Oil marketing companies welcomed the extension. Refineries can now plan their import schedules with greater confidence. Supply chain managers say the CIF arrangement reduces friction in procurement. Sellers handle logistics and insurance on their end. That saves time and administrative effort for Pakistani buyers. The energy sector views the SBP decision as a practical and timely measure. It reflects an understanding of how import-dependent industries operate under stress. Pakistan's fuel supply chain requires consistent policy support. The State Bank has provided that support through this extension.
Pakistan

SBP Extends Crude Oil Import Permission Until July 2026

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The State Bank of Pakistan (SBP) extends crude oil import permission on Cost Insurance and Freight basis until July 10 2026. The central bank issued a circular to authorized dealers confirming the two-month extension. The move aims to ensure uninterrupted fuel supplies across the country amid continued volatility in global energy markets. Background of the Decision The SBP had first granted this relaxation on March 11 2026. It issued that initial permission through EPD Circular Letter No. 04. The original window covered 60 days. Sharp fluctuations in global oil prices triggered the decision. Geopolitical tensions and supply concerns in international markets drove those price swings. The central bank acted quickly to protect Pakistan’s energy supply chain. What the Extension Means The SBP extends crude oil import permission to give oil marketing companies and refineries more room to operate. Industry sources say the move supports efficient supply chain management. Global energy markets remain uncertain. Pakistan needs a stable import framework to counter those risks. The CIF mechanism places the burden of cost insurance and freight on the seller. That arrangement benefits Pakistani importers directly. It reduces their operational complexity. It also helps ensure timely delivery of petroleum products at destination ports. SBP Directive to Authorized Dealers The State Bank directed all authorized dealers to act on the revised instructions immediately. Dealers must inform their concerned clients and ensure strict compliance. The circular stated clearly that the relaxation validity now runs until July 10 2026. No ambiguity remains about the new deadline. Banks and financial institutions handling import transactions must align their processes accordingly. Why This Matters for Pakistan Pakistan depends heavily on imported petroleum products. The country uses crude oil and refined fuels to power industry transport and households. Any disruption in import arrangements creates ripple effects across the economy. Fuel shortages push up prices. They slow down industrial output. They create pressure on foreign exchange reserves as emergency procurement becomes costlier. The SBP extends crude oil import permission precisely to avoid these outcomes. A predictable and flexible import policy gives refineries time to plan purchases. It allows oil marketing companies to negotiate better supply contracts. It reduces the risk of sudden fuel shortfalls in domestic markets. Global Context International oil markets have remained turbulent throughout early 2026. Geopolitical tensions continue to affect supply routes and pricing. Several major oil-producing regions face uncertainty. Prices have moved sharply in both directions. Pakistan is not isolated from these pressures. The country spends billions of dollars annually on petroleum imports. A stable import mechanism directly supports the broader balance of payments. The central bank recognized this reality in March. It acted again now by extending the relief period. Policymakers are clearly watching global developments closely. Further extensions remain possible if market conditions do not stabilize before July. Industry Response Oil marketing companies welcomed the extension. Refineries can now plan their import schedules with greater confidence. Supply chain managers say the CIF arrangement reduces friction in procurement. Sellers handle logistics and insurance on their end. That saves time and administrative effort for Pakistani buyers. The energy sector views the SBP decision as a practical and timely measure. It reflects an understanding of how import-dependent industries operate under stress. Pakistan’s fuel supply chain requires consistent policy support. The State Bank has provided that support through this extension.

Punjab Government Introduces 0.90% Infrastructure Cess on Imports and Exports
Pakistan

Punjab Government Introduces 0.90% Infrastructure Cess on Imports and Exports

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The Punjab government has approved amendments to impose a 0.90 percent cess on imports and exports. This move aims to boost infrastructure development revenue across the province. Broader Scope of the New Levy The amended Punjab Infrastructure Development Cess Act 2026 now covers goods produced, manufactured, consumed, imported, or exported through Punjab. It also applies to imported goods merely passing through the province’s territory. Enforcement Mechanisms Strengthened Authorities will appoint cess officers with powers to monitor, inspect, and verify goods. Checkpoints can be established at key entry and exit points, and officers may seek help from Customs and law enforcement agencies. The Punjab Assembly passed the bill through a majority vote. It awaits final approval from the Governor to become law. Punjab Parliamentary Affairs Minister Mujtaba Shuja ur Rehman clarified that this is not a new tax. The cess has existed for years, and the government is only restructuring the system for better collection. He highlighted the revenue gap with Sindh province. Sindh collects around Rs. 170 billion annually from similar charges, while Punjab currently gathers only Rs. 9-10 billion. Business Community Reactions Importers and exporters have expressed concerns over increased costs. Many fear the new cess will raise operational expenses and affect competitiveness in regional trade. The government maintains the funds will support infrastructure projects. Better roads, logistics hubs, and facilities could eventually benefit the same traders paying the cess. Analysts suggest the expanded scope, including transit goods, could significantly increase Punjab’s revenue. However, implementation challenges at checkpoints may cause delays for legitimate trade. This development comes amid ongoing economic pressures in Pakistan. Provinces are exploring new ways to generate funds without heavily relying on federal transfers. The cess will primarily apply to goods moving through formal customs channels. Small-scale or informal traders might see minimal immediate impact.

Pakistan Gets First Dedicated Regional Airline as SouthAir Prepares for Launch
Pakistan

Pakistan Gets First Dedicated Regional Airline as SouthAir Prepares for Launch

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In the midst of an increasingly tense regional and global environment, Pakistan’s aviation sector has received a major boost with the arrival of the ferry flights of two aircraft for the newly launched SouthAir — the country’s first dedicated regional airline aimed at connecting underserved cities and towns of Balochistan, Southern Punjab, and Upper Sindh with the rest of Pakistan. At a time when international and Middle Eastern air corridors have faced serious disruptions due to the ongoing US–Israel–Iran conflict, SouthAir’s launch had temporarily slowed. However, the arrival of its much-awaited aircraft now signals a renewed momentum, with the airline expected to move rapidly towards the commencement of commercial operations. A spokesman for SouthAir stated that all key preparatory arrangements are progressing swiftly, including maintenance facilities, flight scheduling, operational readiness, and the rostering of cockpit and cabin crew. He added that a formal announcement regarding the launch of operations will soon be made in coordination with the Pakistan Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) and Pakistan Airports Authority (PAA).

Pakistan Petroleum Limited Restarts Development of Faiz X-1 Deep Well
Pakistan

Pakistan Petroleum Limited Restarts Development of Faiz X-1 Deep Well

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Pakistan Petroleum Limited (PPL) has successfully commissioned the Faiz X-1 Deep (Basal Sand) well in Sindh’s Sanghar district after the project remained undeveloped for more than a decade due to infrastructure constraints. In a notice submitted to the Pakistan Stock Exchange (PSX) on Friday, Pakistan Petroleum Limited (PPL)announced that the well has now entered production following the completion of technical and operational upgrades. The company stated that it is the operator of the Gambat South Block and confirmed the successful commissioning of the Faiz X-1 Deep well, marking a significant development for Pakistan’s oil and gas sector at a time when the country continues to face energy challenges. Well Remained Inactive Since 2014 According to PPL, the well was originally drilled in 2014. However, the absence of nearby pipeline infrastructure prevented commercial development of the discovery for years. The company explained that the project was initially considered uneconomical because there was no connectivity available for transporting gas from the well to processing facilities. PPL later carried out a comprehensive technical and economic re-evaluation after pipeline connectivity with nearby wells became possible. Following the reassessment, the company concluded that the Basal Sand interval could now be developed commercially. As a result, the exploration and production company initiated well intervention operations and surface facility work to bring the long-delayed discovery into production. Pipeline Connectivity Enabled Commercial Production PPL stated that several key activities were completed before commissioning the well. These included isolation of deeper intervals, well intervention jobs, installation of surface facilities, and the construction of nearly 4.5 kilometres of feeder pipeline. The feeder line connected the Faiz X-1 Deep well to the existing gas gathering network for onward supply to the Gambat South Gas Processing Facilities. The company confirmed that the well officially entered production on February 25, 2026. Production levels were gradually increased in phases to optimise operational performance. According to the notice, the well is currently producing around 3.6 million standard cubic feet per day (MMscfd) of gas along with approximately 750 barrels per day (bpd) of condensate. Energy Sector Receives Boost The successful commissioning of the well is expected to support Pakistan’s domestic energy production at a time when the country remains heavily dependent on imported fuel and liquefied natural gas (LNG). Industry experts believe that increasing indigenous gas production can help reduce pressure on foreign exchange reserves and lower energy import costs in the long term. Pakistan has been struggling with declining natural gas reserves and rising demand from industrial, commercial, and domestic consumers. Several exploration and production companies have recently accelerated efforts to revive dormant discoveries and expand existing infrastructure. The development of the Faiz X-1 Deep well reflects a broader trend in the sector where companies are revisiting older discoveries using improved economic models and upgraded infrastructure. PPL’s Role in Pakistan’s Energy Sector PPL remains one of Pakistan’s largest exploration and production companies and plays a major role in the country’s hydrocarbon sector. The company is involved in exploring, developing, and producing oil and natural gas resources across multiple regions of Pakistan. It operates several key fields and contributes significantly to the national gas supply network. Over the years, PPL has focused on expanding domestic energy production through exploration activities, infrastructure development, and partnerships in strategic energy projects. The commissioning of the Faiz X-1 Deep well adds another producing asset to the company’s portfolio and highlights the importance of infrastructure connectivity in unlocking stranded energy resources.

Bank Alfalah and Aga Khan Foundation Launch Rs. 66 Million Rehabilitation Project for Flood-Affected Areas in Gilgit-Baltistan
Pakistan

Bank Alfalah and Aga Khan Foundation Launch Rs. 66 Million Rehabilitation Project for Flood-Affected Areas in Gilgit-Baltistan

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Karachi (Staff Reporter):The Aga Khan Foundation Pakistan, in collaboration with Bank Alfalah, has launched a rehabilitation program worth Rs. 66 million aimed at improving critical infrastructure and strengthening communities in flood-affected areas of Gilgit-Baltistan. The program was initiated following the devastation caused by the monsoon floods in August 2025, which triggered flash floods, landslides, cloudbursts, and glacial lake outburst floods across the region. Under the project, multiple initiatives will be undertaken, including the restoration of clean drinking water supply systems for thousands of households, reconstruction of irrigation networks, revival of agricultural activities, and construction of flood protection infrastructure to reduce the risks of future natural disasters. In addition, disaster preparedness will be enhanced through the provision of winterized emergency tents. Bank Alfalah is contributing Rs. 50 million to the initiative, while the Aga Khan Foundation is contributing Rs. 7.05 million. The project will focus on improving access to clean water, restoring irrigation systems, implementing flood protection measures, and strengthening emergency shelter reserves. The initiative will directly benefit more than 10,600 people in the districts of Gilgit, Ghizer, and Hunza, while approximately 13,000 additional people are expected to benefit indirectly. The project also includes a contribution of Rs. 9.3 million for the installation of a 25-kilowatt solar power system at a school in Chitral, benefiting both students and teachers.President and Chief Executive Officer of Bank Alfalah Limited, Atif Bajwa, emphasized the bank’s commitment to community development in Pakistan, stating: “We are proud to launch this important rehabilitation initiative with the Aga Khan Foundation Pakistan, which reflects our commitment to responsible banking and meaningful investment in communities.”

Pakistan Telecom Sector Demands Lower Import Duties on 5G Equipment
Pakistan

Pakistan Telecom Sector Demands Lower Import Duties on 5G Equipment

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Pakistan’s telecom industry has submitted a wide range of fiscal and policy recommendations for the Federal Budget FY2026 27 to improve sector sustainability, expand digital connectivity, and support the country’s broader digital transformation goals. The proposals were submitted through the Telecom Operators’ Association to the Ministry of Information Technology and Telecommunication. The industry urged the government to reduce taxes, rationalise import duties, and create a more investment friendly environment for telecom infrastructure and next generation technologies. The telecom sector stated that it continues to face serious financial pressure despite playing a central role in Pakistan’s digital economy. Operators pointed to rising operational expenses, currency depreciation, high taxation, and increasing infrastructure investment needs as major challenges affecting long term growth. Telecom Operators Seek Reduction in Withholding Tax One of the key recommendations focuses on reducing withholding tax under Section 153 of the Income Tax Ordinance 2001 from 6 percent to 4 percent. The industry also proposed making the withholding tax adjustable instead of treating it as a minimum tax. Telecom operators argued that the current taxation structure creates severe cash flow constraints and raises the cost of capital for companies operating in the sector. According to the proposal, these financial pressures limit the ability of telecom companies to invest in network expansion, infrastructure upgrades, and digital services. The industry maintained that easing the tax burden would improve liquidity and encourage operators to increase investment in underserved areas. Proposal to Cut Advance Income Tax on Mobile Services The telecom sector also requested a reduction in advance income tax on telecom services under Section 236 from 15 percent to 8 percent. Industry representatives argued that high taxes on mobile usage disproportionately affect low income and prepaid consumers across Pakistan. They said the heavy upfront taxation discourages digital adoption and limits access to essential online services. Telecom operators believe lower taxes would help increase mobile internet usage, improve digital inclusion, and support the government’s efforts to promote financial digitization and e governance initiatives. Pakistan currently has one of the highest telecom taxation rates in the region. According to the industry proposal, total consumer taxation on telecom services stands at approximately 34.5 percent. Industry Calls for 5G Equipment Duty Exemptions The telecom industry further proposed abolishing customs duties on the import of 5G and fixed line telecom equipment. The recommendation covers a wide range of products, including network infrastructure equipment, smartphones, servers, batteries, SIM cards, and other telecom related components. Operators stated that high import duties significantly increase deployment costs and slow the rollout of advanced connectivity technologies across the country. The industry particularly highlighted the challenges faced in expanding services to rural and underserved areas where infrastructure investment already remains expensive. According to telecom operators, rationalising duties could unlock nearly Rs12 billion in additional capital deployment for network expansion and digital infrastructure development. The sector believes that easing import restrictions would accelerate Pakistan’s transition toward next generation technologies and improve the country’s digital competitiveness. Fiber Broadband Expansion Faces Challenges Another major recommendation focuses on reducing overall duties and taxes on optic fiber cable imports from nearly 67 percent to 5 percent. The telecom industry argued that expensive fiber deployment has become a major bottleneck for broadband expansion in Pakistan. Fixed broadband penetration in the country remains below 2 percent, highlighting the urgent need for investment in high speed internet infrastructure. Industry officials stated that affordable fiber deployment would improve internet quality, support growing data consumption, and strengthen Pakistan’s digital economy. Telecom operators also stressed that better broadband infrastructure is essential for the development of sectors such as education, health care, ecommerce, and digital banking. Concerns Over Tax Disputes and Compliance Costs The telecom sector additionally recommended withdrawing the Commissioner’s authority under Section 147(6B) of the Income Tax Ordinance 2001 to reject taxpayers’ advance tax estimates. According to the proposal, the current mechanism increases disputes, litigation, compliance costs, and uncertainty for businesses operating in Pakistan. The industry maintained that simplifying the taxation process would improve ease of doing business and reduce unnecessary administrative burdens on companies. Telecom operators said a stable and predictable regulatory framework remains essential for attracting long term investment into the sector. Pakistan Still Faces Connectivity Challenges The recommendations come at a time when Pakistan continues to face major connectivity gaps despite rapid growth in digital services worldwide. According to the telecom industry, more than 30 percent of Pakistan’s population still lacks access to 4G services, while nearly 12 percent remains without basic mobile coverage. Industry officials stated that sustainable policies and investment friendly reforms are necessary to bridge the digital divide and improve nationwide connectivity. The telecom sector maintained that supporting operators through tax reforms and infrastructure incentives would help accelerate broadband expansion, improve digital inclusion, and contribute to overall economic growth. Experts believe that stronger telecom infrastructure will also play a critical role in supporting Pakistan’s future digital economy ambitions, including ecommerce, fintech, online education, and smart governance initiatives.

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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