Pakistan

Meeting has been arranged at REAP House, Karachi to discuss various issues related to rice exports to Kenya. This meeting was attended by Mr. Muhammad Jawed Jillani, Senior Vice Chairman of REAP, Mr. Rafique Suleman, Convener of REAP’s Committee on Kenya, Executive Committee members Mr. Sheeraz Ahmed Shaikh, Mr. Mohaib Moulvi along with a large number of REAP members engaged in exporting rice to Kenya. Additionally, approx.. 40 Members attended the meeting via Zoom video link. Read More: https://theboardroompk.com/strong-banking-industry-link-pakistan-bankislami-pushes-for-sme-financing-boom/ Rafique Suleman, thanked all the respected guests who attended today’s Kenya meeting. Around 40 participants were present at REAP Office, while approximately 40 members joined online via Zoom. He sincerely appreciated participation and support of REAP Members. Jawed Jillani, Senior Vice Chairman REAP appreciated Government support for Rice Exporters in the shape of Duty Drawback and Local Taxes (DLTL), i.e. 9% on Basmati Rice and 3% on Non Basmati Rice. He was hopeful that this will result into boost of rice export trade. Following extensive deliberations and input from participants, REAP members collectively agreed on the need to strengthen rice exports to Kenya while also addressing the challenges in a timely and effective manner. During the meeting, it was agreed by most of the members that only unity among REAP members will result into the strength of Kenyan market, which is one of the largest buyers of Pakistani long grain rice. It was also decided to hold such meeting on monthly basis.

Lahore: National Grid Company of Pakistan (NGC) hosted its first-ever workshop on Right-of-Way (ROW) Issues in Transmission Infrastructure in LUMS Lahore. Read More: https://theboardroompk.com/pakistan-tightens-rules-for-used-mobile-phone-imports/ The event brought together legal experts, development partners and power sector stakeholders to chart a path toward a modern legal and operational framework for resolving land access challenges that continue to affect the reliable and timely delivery of Pakistan’s power transmission network. ROW constraints, particularly the legal and practical challenges of securing land access for transmission lines and related infrastructure remain one of the most persistent barriers to grid expansion in Pakistan. Delays in land acquisition directly lead to cost overruns, reduced grid reliability, and slower delivery of affordable power to communities nationwide. This workshop represents a concrete step toward addressing these challenges. At NGC, ROW issues are the largest obstacle to timely project delivery, which is why the organization is taking the lead in convening experts to develop fair and efficient solutions that can accelerate progress for the benefit of all Pakistanis. The session was opened by Ms. Maria Rafique, Chief Law Officer of NGC, who outlined the workshop’s objectives and framed the day as the beginning of a sustained, structured effort to build a governance model fit for Pakistan’s growing transmission needs. In his keynote address, Dr. Fiaz Ahmad Chaudhry, Chairman of the NGC Board, set the tone for the discussions that followed. “Century-old legal frameworks require corrective measures,” he said. “We need to move from a reactive posture to a proactive one anticipating challenges, modernizing our tools, and building frameworks that serve today’s development needs.” A recurring theme throughout the day was the urgent need to reform the Land Acquisition Act (LAA) of 1894 colonial-era legislation that continues to govern land acquisition in Pakistan despite being fundamentally misaligned with current infrastructure realities. Mr. Irfan Ali, Chairman of the CPPA-G Board and Guest of Honor, emphasized that fair and equitable treatment of landowners is not just a legal obligation but a practical imperative. “An approach grounded in fairness reduces grievances, minimizes litigation, and keeps projects on track,” he said. “Reform of the LAA is overdue.” NGC’s Legal Consultant, Dr. Daud Munir, delivered a detailed presentation on the existing regulatory landscape, highlighting gaps between the current legal framework and operational needs, and proposing the key elements of a modern ROW framework for large-scale transmission development. Drawing on international examples, Dr Munir noted that a modern framework that balances public interest with private citizen rights is not only more just and people-centric, but also supports the government’s developmental goals through more efficient project delivery. Participants, drawn from all power distribution companies (DISCOs), EPC contractors, Deputy Commissioner Office Lahore, Environmental Protection Agency, World Bank and CPPA-G, shared field-level experiences and engaged in structured dialogue on the practical obstacles, legal risks and procedural reforms needed to accelerate project delivery. In his closing remarks, Engr. Altaf Hussain Malik, Managing Director NGC, reaffirmed the organization’s commitment to both legislative advocacy and internal improvement. “The laws governing land acquisition are outdated and must be replaced,” he said. “But legal reform alone is not sufficient. We must also strengthen our own internal processes on how we plan, communicate and engage with communities and landowners so that we are ready to operate effectively under any framework.

In a major move to fortify economic ties, the Federation of Pakistan Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FPCCI) and the Guangzhou Chamber of Commerce have signed a historic Memorandum of Understanding (MoU). Read More: https://theboardroompk.com/pakistan-pays-record-premium-on-fuel-imports-as-global-supply-disruptions-intensify/ The agreement was finalized at the Pakistan Consulate in Guangzhou, signed by FPCCI Senior Vice President Saquib Fayyaz Magoon and Guangzhou Chamber Chairman Richard Wu. Lahore to Host Major B2B Conference A centerpiece of this agreement is the announcement of a high-profile B2B Investment Conference scheduled to take place in Lahore on May 9 and 10. This event aims to bring together leading investors from both nations to explore joint ventures in home appliances, electrical equipment, and industrial machinery. Focus on Emerging Sectors Chairman Richard Wu highlighted that Chinese enterprises are increasingly eager to establish industrial units within Pakistan to leverage local advantages. The partnership specifically targets renewable energy, information technology, and agriculture as priority sectors for future Chinese capital and expertise.

In a forceful and uncompromising call for reform, the Institution of Electrical & Electronics Engineers Pakistan (IEEEP) has demanded that Pakistan immediately align its governance of technical sectors with international standards by appointing highly qualified engineers and domain specialists—rather than generalist civil servants—to lead its ministries, regulators, and public sector agencies. Read More: https://theboardroompk.com/ccp-allows-acquisition-of-ranipur-sugar-mills-by-saakh-pharma-united-ethanol/ The demand came during the inaugural session of the 40th Multi-topic International Symposium-2026, where IEEEP leadership warned that decades of mismanagement in critical sectors—particularly energy—stem from a chronic absence of technically competent leadership at the helm.Addressing a distinguished gathering of engineers, academics, and industry experts, IEEEP President Tahir Basharat Cheema asserted that the time had come to redefine governance boundaries. “Civil servants should be confined to administrative roles such as district management,” he declared. “Technical ministries and specialised agencies must be led by professionals with deep domain expertise. The current model is neither sustainable nor effective.” Cheema sharply criticised the prevailing structure of regulatory bodies such as National Electric Power Regulatory Authority and Oil and Gas Regulatory Authority, noting that these highly specialised institutions are not being run by professionals with relevant technical expertise. “It is deeply concerning that not a single seasoned power sector practitioner is currently steering the affairs of NEPRA,” he said.Highlighting the consequences of this systemic oversight, Cheema pointed out that Pakistan’s energy infrastructure remains technologically stagnant. “Distribution transformers in use today are based on designs dating back to 1908, while much of our grid infrastructure traces its roots to the 1960s. This stagnation is a direct result of the absence of qualified professionals in decision-making roles,” he warned. He further criticised the performance of key institutions such as the Private Power and Infrastructure Board, stating that its flagship output—independent power producers (IPPs)—has failed to satisfy stakeholders across the board. Similarly, once-prestigious organisations like the Pakistan Council of Scientific and Industrial Research are now grappling with severe financial constraints, rendering them unable to sustain even basic operations, let alone drive innovation. Cheema underscored that the principle of appointing specialists to technical roles was established over a century ago by European administrations, yet Pakistan continues to deviate from this globally accepted norm. In his opening address, IEEEP Karachi Centre Chairman Navid Akram Ansari called for urgent policy interventions to revitalise Pakistan’s engineering and manufacturing sectors. He urged the government to mandate public sector organisations to prioritise procurement of “Made in Pakistan” products, thereby strengthening domestic industry and encouraging investment in quality enhancement. Ansari also called for the abolition of duties and taxes on imported raw materials used by engineering industries to boost competitiveness in international markets. He stressed the need for establishing a nationwide network of internationally accredited testing laboratories to elevate production standards. He highlighted the critical role of institutions such as the Engineering Development Board, Pakistan Engineering Council, and the Higher Education Commission in transforming engineering education and industrial output. “IEEEP stands ready to support the government in strengthening academia-industry linkages, enhancing engineering curricula, and promoting research and development,” he added.Delivering the keynote address, Professor of Practice Tahir Mahmood Chaudhry—CEO of a leading engineering consultancy—called on the Higher Education Commission to equip university vice-chancellors with essential administrative and financial management training. He revealed a startling statistic that only 12.4 per cent of Pakistan’s more than 250 universities have formal placement bureaus to assist graduates in securing employment. “Placement bureaus are vital for bridging the gap between academia and industry,” he said, warning that their absence is exacerbating graduate unemployment and weakening industrial growth.Earlier, in his welcome remarks, IEEEP Karachi Centre Honorary Secretary Engineer Imran Zafar announced that over 14 research papers would be presented during the symposium, covering key advancements in electrical and electronics engineering, particularly in the power sector. A dedicated session will also focus on reforming higher education in engineering disciplines, with actionable recommendations expected.He noted that senior officials from the Higher Education Commission and the Engineering Development Board were unable to attend the symposium due to movement restrictions in Islamabad amid heightened security arrangements. The symposium has brought into sharp focus a critical national question: can Pakistan afford to let its most technical sectors remain under non-specialist leadership in an increasingly complex and competitive global landscape? The IEEEP’s answer is unequivocal—reform is not just necessary, it is urgent.

Environmental Pollution a Major Challenge; Sindh Government Committed to Accelerating Eco-Friendly Initiatives, Adviser to CM Dost Muhammad Rahimoon Tree Plantation Key to a Secure Future; Strong Measures Essential to Tackle Climate Change, KATI President Muhammad Ikram Rajput Karachi: A tree plantation drive was held at the Korangi Association of Trade and Industry (KATI) Community Park on the occasion of Earth Day, with officials and industry representatives emphasizing the urgent need for collective action to address environmental challenges.Adviser to the Sindh Chief Minister on Environment, Climate Change and Coastal Development, Dost Muhammad Rahimoon, while addressing the ceremony, said that April 22 is observed globally as Earth Day and serves as a reminder of the growing threats posed by environmental pollution and climate change. On the occasion, KATI President Muhammad Ikram Rajput, former president and Chairman standing committee Junaid Naqi, and others also addressed the gathering.Advisor to CM Simdh noted that these challenges require coordinated efforts from all segments of society. “Environmental protection is not possible without joint action by the government, industry and the public,” he said, adding that the Sindh government is taking practical steps to safeguard the environment and improve coastal areas. Rahimoon highlighted that various awareness activities, including tree plantation campaigns, were organized by the Sindh Environmental Protection Agency (SEPA) to mark the day. He stressed that planting trees is the need of the hour, as it not only improves environmental conditions but also ensures a safer future for coming generations. KATI President Muhammad Ikram Rajput, speaking on the occasion, said that Earth Day serves as a reminder that environmental protection is a shared responsibility. He emphasized that in a densely populated city like Karachi, every individual must play a role in improving environmental conditions.Rajput added that under the leadership of the provincial government, significant progress has been made in promoting environmental protection, green energy initiatives and tree plantation campaigns. He reaffirmed the industrial community’s full support for government efforts aimed at environmental sustainability. He also called for greater focus on infrastructure development, waste management systems and wastewater treatment projects to ensure a cleaner and healthier environment.Chairman of KATI’s Standing Committee on Tree Plantation, Junaid Naqi, said that balancing industrial growth with environmental protection is essential. He stressed the need to facilitate industries in adopting environmentally friendly technologies, promote green energy projects and introduce an effective policy framework. The event was attended by KATI office-bearers, SEPA officials, industrialists and members of the public. Participants also planted saplings to reaffirm their commitment to a greener Pakistan.

Karachi, April 22, 2026: Reinforcing its position as a leader in Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI), Pakistan’s leading digital microfinance bank, Mobilink Bank has successfully graduated 18 women-led startups under its Women Inspirational Network (WIN) Incubator Program, an industry-first initiative designed to unlock the economic potential of women entrepreneurs in Pakistan. Read More: https://theboardroompk.com/bingx-lists-space-themed-meme-coin-asteroid-shiba/ The graduation ceremony, held in Islamabad, was attended by Ms. Wajiha Qamar, Minister of State for Federal Education & Professional Training, as the Chief Guest, alongside key stakeholders from the public and private sectors. The WIN program equipped participants with practical skills in digital entrepreneurship, financial literacy, and business scaling, enabling them to build resilient, future-ready enterprises. The ceremony concluded with awards recognizing high-impact ventures emerging from the cohort. Green Plastics secured the Best Startup Award and received PKR 1 million in seed funding for its innovative solution converting potato peels into recyclable bags. Ecogen and EcoFlow were named winners of the Innovation Challenge, each receiving PKR 500,000 in seed funding for their impactful work in food waste management and affordable sanitary solutions for underserved communities. With a total of 31 startups now graduated, Mobilink Bank continues to set the benchmark for enabling women-led businesses through structured incubation, mentorship, and access to financial and digital ecosystems. Speaking at the occasion, Ms. Wajiha Qamar, Minister of State for Federal Education & Professional Training said that, “The graduation of 18 women-led startups under Mobilink Bank’s WIN Incubator is a powerful testament to the transformative impact of investing in women’s potential. Initiatives like this not only equip women with essential entrepreneurial and digital skills but also pave the way for a more inclusive and resilient economy. It is encouraging to see these ventures addressing critical challenges such as sustainability and social equity. Continued collaboration between the public and private sectors will be key to expanding such opportunities and enabling more women across Pakistan to become drivers of innovation and economic growth.” Haaris Mahmood Chaudhary, President & CEO, Mobilink Bank, remarked that, “At Mobilink Bank, we are moving beyond access to impact. The WIN Incubator is unlocking a new generation of women entrepreneurs who are not just participating in the economy but leading it. Their success is building a more resilient, inclusive, and future-ready Pakistan.” The graduating cohort demonstrated a strong focus on sustainability and social impact, with ventures addressing pressing challenges such as plastic waste, food waste, and period poverty, highlighting the growing role of women entrepreneurs in driving climate-conscious and socially responsible innovation. This also comes in line with the Bank’s ESG policy, which is strongly embedded into its core operations. Mobilink Bank’s continued investment in initiatives like WIN underscores its commitment to building a more inclusive, innovative, and resilient economic future, where women are not just participants, but leaders of change.