Pakistan

In backdrop of India-Europe Deal, Pakistan Announces Rs 4.04/unit Power Tariff Cut to Boost Exports
Pakistan

In backdrop of India-Europe Deal, Pakistan Announces Rs 4.04/unit Power Tariff Cut to Boost Exports

Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif has announced a major relief package for Pakistan’s industries and exporters to boost economic growth and competitiveness. Read More: https://theboardroompk.com/sindh-cm-approves-pkr-9-28-billion-for-karachi-industrial-infrastructure/ Speaking at the award ceremony for top exporters of fiscal year 2024-25 in Islamabad on January 30, 2026, the Prime Minister unveiled reductions in electricity tariffs and financing costs. Power Tariff Slash for Industries The government has reduced electricity tariffs for industries by Rs 4.04 per unit. Wheeling charges have also been lowered to less than Rs 9 per unit, enabling industries to sell excess power to nearby units more affordably. This aims to cut production costs significantly and revive industrial activity. Incentives for Exporters The export refinance scheme rate has been slashed from 7.5 percent to 4.5 percent, providing cheaper financing to exporters. Leading exporters will receive blue passports for two years to facilitate travel and business. The scheme has an allocation of Rs 1,052 billion, with Rs 900 billion already utilized. Economic Context and Goals The Prime Minister emphasized that export-led growth is essential for Pakistan’s future, moving beyond mere stabilization. He highlighted improvements like single-digit inflation, a reduced policy rate of 10.5 percent, and doubled foreign reserves. The measures seek to attract foreign direct investment in export-oriented projects and reduce reliance on external borrowing. Exporters were praised as the backbone of the economy for their resilience amid past challenges. Positive Reactions Business leaders and associations welcomed the package, noting it would ease liquidity issues, promote exports, and accelerate recovery in key sectors like textiles.

AI Voice Command Banking Is Here, And UBL Is Leading the Revolution
Pakistan

AI Voice Command Banking Is Here, And UBL Is Leading the Revolution

AI Voice Command Banking has officially arrived in Pakistan, and United Bank Limited (UBL) is taking a bold step into the future of digital finance. In a strategic collaboration with Fortanixor Technologies, UBL has launched an advanced AI-powered voice banking solution that allows customers to perform everyday banking tasks using simple voice commands, no screens, no taps, just secure conversations with technology. Read More: https://theboardroompk.com/business-community-rejects-ogras-gas-price-hike-terms-decision-devastating-for-economy/ As digital banking adoption accelerates and customer expectations evolve, UBL’s latest innovation signals a major shift in how banks engage with users making banking faster, smarter, and more accessible than ever before. What Is AI Voice Command Banking and Why It Matters At its core, AI Voice Command Banking enables customers to interact with their bank through natural speech. Instead of navigating mobile apps or visiting branches, users can now check balances, inquire about recent transactions, and perform routine banking actions by simply speaking. This technology isn’t just about convenience, it’s about financial inclusion, accessibility, and security. Voice-enabled banking empowers elderly users, people with disabilities, and busy professionals who need instant access without friction. How UBL’s AI Voice Command Banking Works UBL’s system, powered by Fortanixor Technologies, combines artificial intelligence, natural language processing, and advanced encryption protocols to ensure accuracy and safety. Rather than relying on traditional PINs alone, the platform integrates multi-layer authentication, including voice recognition and behavioral AI analysis. This means the system not only understands what the user says, but also verifies who is speaking, adding a new dimension to fraud prevention. Instead of presenting feature comparisons in tables, here’s how the solution delivers value in practice: Customers can check account balances instantly by voice, receive transaction summaries on demand, access banking information without opening an app, and enjoy hands-free interaction while multitasking all within a secure digital environment. Why AI Voice Command Banking Is a Game-Changer for Pakistan Pakistan’s digital banking ecosystem is expanding rapidly, driven by smartphone adoption and fintech innovation. However, usability and trust remain key challenges. AI Voice Command Banking directly addresses both. For customers, it reduces complexity. For banks, it improves engagement. For the economy, it accelerates digital inclusion. UBL’s move positions the bank at the forefront of intelligent banking aligning with global trends where voice technology is becoming as essential as mobile apps. UBL and Fortanixor: A Strategic Technology Alliance The collaboration with Fortanixor Technologies highlights UBL’s commitment to partnering with innovation-driven firms that specialize in AI security and enterprise-grade digital solutions. Fortanixor’s expertise ensures that UBL’s voice banking platform meets international cybersecurity standards while remaining scalable for future upgrades, including multilingual support and personalized AI interactions. What This Means for the Future of Banking The launch of AI Voice Command Banking is not just a feature update it’s a statement. It signals a future where banking is conversational, predictive, and embedded into daily life. As AI continues to evolve, voice banking could soon handle complex requests such as fund transfers, bill payments, and financial advice all through natural dialogue. UBL’s early adoption gives it a competitive edge and sets a benchmark for the rest of Pakistan’s banking sector. Final Thoughts: A New Era of Smart Banking Begins With the introduction of AI Voice Command Banking, UBL has redefined customer interaction in financial services. By blending innovation, security, and accessibility, the bank has taken a decisive step toward the future of digital finance in Pakistan. As customers increasingly demand smarter and simpler solutions, voice-enabled banking may soon become the new standard and UBL is already ahead of the curve.

Gold Investors Witness Bloodbath as it Falls Rs35,500 per Tola to Rs537,362 in Pakistan
Pakistan

Gold Investors Witness Bloodbath as it Falls Rs35,500 per Tola to Rs537,362 in Pakistan

Gold prices in Pakistan experienced a sharp single-day decline on January 30, 2026, with the price per tola dropping by Rs35,500 to settle at Rs537,362 in the local market, according to the All-Pakistan Gems and Jewellers Sarafa Association (APGJSA). Read More: https://theboardroompk.com/business-community-rejects-ogras-gas-price-hike-terms-decision-devastating-for-economy/ This marks one of the largest single-day falls recorded, following a recent upward trend. Local Market Adjustments The price for 10 grams of 24-karat gold fell by Rs30,435 to Rs460,701. Silver prices also declined, with per tola silver dropping Rs1,106 to Rs11,069. On the previous day (January 29, 2026), gold per tola had risen to Rs572,862 after a gain of Rs21,200, highlighting the market’s volatility. International Gold Price Influence The local drop mirrored a significant retreat in global gold prices. Spot gold lost around 3.9% to $5,183.21 per ounce (as of early GMT trading), while US gold futures for February delivery fell 2.7% to $5,176.40 per ounce. International gold declined by approximately $355 to around $5,150 per ounce (with a $20 premium noted in some quotes). This was described as one of the biggest single-day global declines in recent history. Factors Driving the Decline The plunge was linked to market speculation about a more hawkish Federal Reserve chair appointment under the Trump administration, which could signal tighter monetary policy. Despite the drop, gold remained on track for its strongest monthly performance since 1980, with prices up over 20% in January and heading for a sixth consecutive monthly gain. This correction comes amid ongoing geopolitical and economic pressures but reflects profit-taking and sentiment shifts in precious metals markets. Local jewelers and investors are monitoring for stabilization, as such swings can impact buying patterns in Pakistan’s bullion sector.

KSE-100 Index Extends Bullish Run as Investors Chase Momentum
Pakistan

KSE-100 Index Extends Bullish Run as Investors Chase Momentum

The KSE-100 Index continues to rewrite Pakistan’s stock market narrative, closing Friday’s session at 184,174.48 points, up a strong 1,836 points (1.01%). The benchmark remained firmly positive throughout the day, reflecting growing investor confidence and sustained buying interest across key sectors. Read More: https://theboardroompk.com/overseas-pakistanis-economy-the-backbone-powering-pakistans-economic-future/ This rally isn’t just another green day it’s a signal. A signal that liquidity, optimism, and sector rotation are reshaping the market’s near-term direction. KSE-100 Index Intraday Performance Signals Strong Buying Appetite The trading session saw the KSE-100 Index touch an intraday high of 186,619.51 points, gaining over 4,280 points, before settling slightly lower by close. Even at its weakest level of the day, the index stayed in positive territory, highlighting solid institutional support. Market participation remained healthy, with 344 million shares traded in KSE-100 constituents alone an indicator that investors are not just watching from the sidelines. Out of 100 index companies, 71 closed higher, 28 declined, and one remained unchanged, reflecting broad-based strength rather than a narrow rally. Top Gainers and Losers in the KSE-100 Index Among the standout performers, JVDC, KTML, ILP, NML, and INDU led gains, posting returns ranging from 4% to over 8%. These moves suggest aggressive accumulation in select industrial and textile names. On the flip side, profit-taking was visible in PGLC, AICL, HCAR, BOP, and POL, though losses remained contained an encouraging sign that selling pressure is not yet dominant. Index Movers: Stocks Driving and Dragging the KSE-100 Index Heavyweights once again dictated the index’s direction. ENGROH, LUCK, UBL, MEBL, and MARI collectively added hundreds of points, underlining the importance of large-cap stocks in sustaining momentum. Conversely, FFC and MCB emerged as the biggest drags, trimming some gains. However, the overall impact of decliners was overshadowed by aggressive buying in banking, cement, and energy stocks. Sector Watch: Which Industries Lifted the KSE-100 Index? Sector-wise analysis reveals where smart money is flowing: • Commercial Banks led the charge, contributing over 470 points, driven by expectations of earnings stability and improving margins.• Cement stocks added more than 350 points, reflecting optimism around infrastructure demand and pricing power.• Oil & Gas exploration companies and investment firms also played a pivotal role, reinforcing the rally’s depth. Meanwhile, fertilizer and insurance sectors acted as mild drags, suggesting selective rotation rather than broad risk-off behavior. Broader Market Performance Mirrors KSE-100 Index Strength The bullish sentiment wasn’t limited to large caps. The All-Share Index gained 1.02%, closing at 110,725 points. While overall market volume dipped to 805 million shares, the traded value stood strong at Rs50.8 billion, indicating quality participation rather than speculative churn. Out of 484 traded companies, more than 250 closed higher, confirming that optimism is spreading across the board. Fiscal Year Snapshot: KSE-100 Index in Numbers Since the start of the fiscal year, the KSE-100 Index has surged by 58,547 points, delivering an impressive 46.6% return. Even on a calendar-year basis, the index is up over 5.8%, reinforcing Pakistan equities’ status as one of the region’s standout performers. What’s Next for the KSE-100 Index? With momentum clearly on its side, the KSE-100 Index appears poised for further upside provided macro stability and earnings expectations hold. Investors, however, should stay alert to volatility as profit-taking may emerge near psychological resistance levels. For now, the message from the market is loud and clear: the bulls remain firmly in control.

Gas Supply Suspension in Pakistan Sparks Industrial and Transport Concerns
Pakistan

Gas Supply Suspension in Pakistan Sparks Industrial and Transport Concerns

Gas supply suspension in Pakistan has once again taken center stage as the country grapples with soaring winter demand and constrained energy resources. In a move that directly impacts industries, captive power plants, and the CNG transport sector, Sui Southern Gas Company Limited (SSGC) has announced a 48-hour shutdown of gas supply, raising fresh concerns about production delays, fuel shortages, and economic ripple effects. Read More: https://theboardroompk.com/sindh-cm-approves-pkr-9-28-billion-for-karachi-industrial-infrastructure/ The suspension will remain in effect from 8:00 am on Saturday, January 31, until 8:00 am on Monday, February 2, as the utility company shifts focus toward stabilizing gas pressure for domestic and commercial consumers during peak winter usage. Why Gas Supply Suspension in Pakistan Was Announced The gas supply suspension in Pakistan is not an isolated decision but part of SSGC’s broader winter load management strategy. During colder months, residential gas consumption rises sharply due to heating and cooking needs, putting extraordinary pressure on the gas transmission network. SSGC stated that temporarily cutting off supply to industrial consumers and CNG stations is necessary to maintain system balance and pressure stability, especially in urban centers such as Karachi. In practical terms, this means: • Industries relying on gas-fired captive power plants will face operational slowdowns.• CNG stations, including those operating on RLNG, will remain closed.• Domestic users are expected to experience comparatively improved gas pressure during peak hours. Industries and CNG Sector: Who Is Most Affected? The industrial sector often bears the brunt of gas load management during winter. Manufacturing units, export-oriented factories, and SMEs that depend on uninterrupted energy supplies may face production losses and increased costs from alternative fuels. Similarly, the CNG transport sector a critical component of urban mobility will experience temporary disruptions. With CNG stations shut, commuters may shift to petrol and diesel, adding pressure on fuel prices and urban transport costs. Instead of listing impacts in a table, consider the following breakdown: • Industrial operations face halted machinery, delayed shipments, and higher energy expenses.• Transport operators encounter fuel switching costs and route inefficiencies.• Consumers may indirectly feel the impact through higher product prices and transport fares. Domestic Consumers Take Priority Amid Winter Demand One of the key reasons behind the gas supply suspension in Pakistan is to protect domestic and commercial users from low pressure and outages during critical hours. SSGC emphasized that households experiencing gas pressure issues can lodge complaints via its 24-hour helpline (1199), where operational teams remain on standby for swift resolution. However, consumers should note that routine nightly gas suspension from 10:00 pm to 5:00 am will continue as part of standard load management practices. Managing Misinformation Around Gas Supply Suspension in Pakistan SSGC also cautioned against the spread of misinformation, especially on social media. In recent months, similar announcements were misrepresented, triggering unnecessary panic among consumers. The utility urged the media to report developments accurately and responsibly. Clear communication, SSGC believes, is essential to ensure public trust while navigating energy shortages during extreme weather conditions. What This Means for Pakistan’s Energy Landscape The latest gas supply suspension in Pakistan highlights deeper structural challenges in the country’s energy sector ranging from supply constraints and seasonal demand spikes to dependence on imported fuels like RLNG. For policymakers and businesses alike, the episode underscores the urgency of: • Diversifying energy sources• Improving gas infrastructure• Accelerating renewable energy adoption Until long-term solutions materialize, short-term suspensions may remain an unavoidable reality each winter. While the 48-hour shutdown is temporary, its implications are far-reaching. From factory floors to fuel stations, the gas supply suspension in Pakistan serves as a reminder of the delicate balance between household needs and economic activity one that becomes increasingly fragile during peak winter months.

Pakistan IMF Economic Growth Strategy Signals a Turning Point for the Economy
Pakistan

Pakistan IMF Economic Growth Strategy Signals a Turning Point for the Economy

The Pakistan IMF economic growth strategy is entering a decisive new chapter. After narrowly escaping a sovereign default and enduring months of tight fiscal and monetary discipline, Pakistan is now positioning itself for something far more ambitious: sustainable, export-led economic growth. Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has made it clear that the era of crisis firefighting is ending. The next phase, he says, is about unlocking industrial potential, empowering exporters, and restoring investor confidence, with the International Monetary Fund (IMF) playing a central advisory role. From Stabilization to Growth: Pakistan’s IMF Reset Speaking at a high-profile gathering in Islamabad, the Prime Minister emphasized that economic stabilization has already been achieved a rare milestone after years of volatility. The challenge now lies in transforming stability into momentum. At the heart of the Pakistan IMF economic growth strategy is a recalibration of capital flows. Instead of short-term fixes, the government wants long-term investment directed toward local industry, manufacturing, and value-added exports. According to PM Sharif, the State Bank of Pakistan and the Ministry of Finance must move decisively, while also listening closely to business leaders who understand ground realities. The Diplomatic Moment That Averted Default The Prime Minister revisited a defining episode of Pakistan’s recent economic history: the 2023 near-default crisis. He recalled a crucial meeting with IMF Managing Director Kristalina Georgieva in Paris, where Pakistan’s future hung in the balance. He described how a personal assurance to fully implement IMF-mandated reforms became a turning point, restoring trust and preventing default. That commitment now underpins the broader Pakistan IMF economic growth strategy, reinforcing credibility with global lenders and investors alike. Monetary Easing Sparks Industrial Optimism One of the most powerful signals of the policy shift has been targeted monetary easing without fiscal expansion a rare balancing act. The government slashed the refinance rate by 300 basis points, bringing it down from 7.5% to 4.5%. This move dramatically reduces borrowing costs for businesses, particularly exporters. At the same time, electricity wheeling charges were cut by over Rs4 per unit, lowering energy costs for industry. In practical terms, this means: • Cheaper financing for manufacturers• Improved cash flows for exporters• Stronger competitiveness in global markets These steps are widely viewed as growth-friendly without being inflationary, aligning closely with IMF benchmarks. Export Refinance Scheme Recalibrated for Growth A major pillar of the Pakistan IMF economic growth strategy is export expansion. To support this goal, the Export Refinance Scheme (ERF) was revised, setting financing rates at Policy Rate minus 6%. This adjustment enhances liquidity for exporters and makes Pakistan’s export financing framework more regionally competitive. Combined with a 1% cut in the Cash Reserve Requirement, which injected more than Rs300 billion into the banking system, the reforms strengthen credit availability while maintaining financial sector stability. Industry leaders have praised the approach as strategic rather than populist, noting that it avoids placing additional strain on public finances. IMF Governance Reforms: The Missing Growth Multiplier Beyond monetary and industrial measures, the IMF continues to stress that governance reform is the real growth accelerator. Its Governance and Corruption Diagnostic Report outlines a 15-point reform agenda, focusing on transparency in public procurement, stronger parliamentary oversight, and closing loopholes in anti-corruption institutions. If implemented effectively, the IMF estimates that these reforms could: • Raise GDP growth to 5–6.5% over five years• Reduce inefficiencies across state institutions• Curb elite capture in economic policymaking This governance push forms the backbone of long-term confidence in the Pakistan IMF economic growth strategy. Fresh IMF Funds and the Road Ahead Pakistan’s performance under the IMF’s Extended Fund Facility (EFF) and Resilience and Sustainability Facility (RSF) remains under close review. Upon approval, fresh disbursements totaling $1.2 billion are expected. These inflows are projected to strengthen foreign exchange reserves, stabilize the rupee, and reinforce Pakistan’s transition from survival mode to strategic growth planning. A Defining Moment for Pakistan’s Economy Taken together, recent policy moves suggest that the Pakistan IMF economic growth strategy is no longer just about meeting conditions it’s about reshaping the economic model. With industrial incentives, export-focused reforms, governance improvements, and IMF backing aligned, Pakistan stands at a rare inflection point. Whether this moment translates into lasting prosperity will depend on execution but the direction, for the first time in years, is unmistakably forward.

Pakistan SPI Inflation Eases: A Temporary Relief or the Start of a Trend?
Pakistan

Pakistan SPI Inflation Eases: A Temporary Relief or the Start of a Trend?

Pakistan SPI inflation offered a rare moment of relief for consumers as short-term inflation edged down by 0.03% during the week ending January 29, 2026, according to the latest data released by the Pakistan Bureau of Statistics (PBS). At a time when inflation remains a central concern for households, businesses, and policymakers alike, this marginal decline has sparked a larger question: is Pakistan finally seeing price stability, or is this just a short-lived correction? Let’s break down what’s driving the numbers, and what they mean for the economy. What Pulled Pakistan SPI Inflation Lower? The weekly dip in Pakistan SPI inflation was largely fueled by a sharp correction in key food staples, particularly vegetables and basic kitchen essentials. Price declines were most visible in items commonly consumed by lower- and middle-income households. Potatoes recorded a steep drop of nearly 8%, followed closely by onions falling over 6%. Wheat flour, a critical staple, declined by more than 1%, easing pressure on household food budgets. Other contributors included pulses, eggs, gur, and broken basmati rice, all of which showed modest weekly reductions. In practical terms, this means families shopping for essentials saw temporary relief at vegetable markets and grocery stores a welcome change after months of volatility. The Other Side: Items That Pushed Back Despite the overall decline, Pakistan SPI inflation remained under pressure from rising prices in several essential categories. Tomatoes surged sharply by over 7%, while chicken prices climbed more than 3%, highlighting ongoing supply-demand imbalances. Bananas, LPG, pulses, vegetable ghee, and even non-food items like clothing and cigarettes also registered increases. Out of the 51 essential commodities tracked, more than one-third recorded price hikes, while less than one-fifth experienced declines. Nearly half of the basket remained unchanged suggesting that inflation pressures are cooling unevenly, not disappearing altogether. Annual Picture: Pakistan SPI Inflation Still Elevated While the weekly movement grabbed attention, the year-on-year SPI inflation rate stood at 4.52%, reinforcing that price pressures remain embedded in the system. Eggs and tomatoes emerged as the biggest annual gainers, with prices jumping more than 40% compared to last year. Wheat flour, gas charges, chilies, beef, LPG, powdered milk, and clothing also posted notable increases directly impacting household expenses. On the flip side, dramatic annual declines were observed in potatoes, garlic, onions, pulses, tea, chicken, and fuel prices such as petrol and diesel. These declines played a critical role in preventing inflation from climbing further. Industrial Inputs: Fertilizer and Cement Trends Beyond consumer goods, Pakistan SPI inflation data also sheds light on input costs affecting construction and agriculture. The average price of Sona urea rose slightly on a weekly basis but remained lower than last year, offering marginal relief to farmers ahead of upcoming sowing cycles. Meanwhile, cement prices edged up modestly, now standing over 2% higher than last year. This signals continued cost pressure in the construction sector a key barometer for economic activity. Why Pakistan SPI Inflation Matters for Policy The Sensitive Price Indicator tracks 51 essential items across 50 markets in 17 cities, making it one of the most reliable tools for monitoring short-term inflation trends. Because it is calculated weekly, Pakistan SPI inflation allows policymakers to assess price movements in near real time. These insights play a critical role in shaping monetary policy decisions, subsidy planning, and targeted relief measures especially for vulnerable income groups. What Lies Ahead? The latest SPI reading suggests temporary stabilization, not a full-scale inflation retreat. Seasonal factors, supply adjustments, and global commodity trends will continue to influence prices in the coming weeks. For now, Pakistan’s inflation story remains cautiously balanced offering brief consumer relief while keeping policymakers on alert.

17 Students Faint in Abbottabad Due to Gas Leakage at Public Health School
Pakistan

17 Students Faint in Abbottabad Due to Gas Leakage at Public Health School

Seventeen students at the Public Health School (LHV) in Abbottabad fainted on Friday, January 30, 2026, following a suspected gas leakage incident. The students reported symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, and breathing difficulties, with several losing consciousness. Read More: https://theboardroompk.com/sindh-cm-approves-pkr-9-28-billion-for-karachi-industrial-infrastructure/ Immediate Response and Hospital Transfer The affected students were promptly shifted to Ayub Teaching Hospital (ATH) using a college vehicle. Medical teams provided urgent care upon arrival, ensuring timely intervention to stabilize their conditions. Critical Cases and Ongoing Monitoring Hospital authorities confirmed that one student was admitted to the Medical Intensive Care Unit (MICU), two to the Coronary Care Unit (CCU), and one to Medical Ward C. The remaining students were placed under emergency observation, with doctors and nurses closely supervising their progress. Prof. Dr. Saqib Malik, Medical Director of ATH, along with the full hospital administration, paramedics, and support staff, coordinated the response. A hospital spokesperson stated that all necessary medical facilities were being extended, and the students’ health was being monitored continuously. The incident highlights safety concerns in educational institutions, particularly regarding gas infrastructure maintenance. No fatalities were reported, and details on the exact source or type of gas leakage remain limited in initial accounts. Authorities have not yet released information on potential investigations or preventive measures, but the swift medical response likely prevented more severe outcomes. This event serves as a reminder of the need for regular safety audits in schools and public facilities.

Pakistan's Salt Exports to China Surge 20% in 2025, Reaching $7.18 Million
Pakistan

Pakistan’s Salt Exports to China Surge 20% in 2025, Reaching $7.18 Million

Pakistan has recorded a notable 20% increase in salt exports to China in 2025, with shipments valued at $7.18 million compared to $5.98 million in 2024, according to data from China’s General Administration of Customs. Read More: https://theboardroompk.com/overseas-pakistanis-economy-the-backbone-powering-pakistans-economic-future/ Key Drivers Behind the Export Growth The rise is attributed to competitive pricing, Pakistan’s abundant salt reserves—particularly Himalayan pink salt—and improved compliance with Chinese quality and logistics standards. Expanding e-commerce channels and smoother customs clearance have also played a crucial role. Industrial Demand Fuels Provincial Imports Industrial salt dominated the exports under ordinary trade, with Hebei Province leading as the top importer at 37.8 million kilograms worth $3.81 million. Other regions like Zhejiang, Anhui, Fujian, Guangdong, and Inner Mongolia saw significant inflows, alongside edible salt via bonded channels. This growth reflects deepening bilateral ties in agricultural and mineral trade. Exporters highlight Pakistan’s edge in high-quality, mineral-rich salt that appeals to China’s food, chemical, and industrial sectors. The surge builds on earlier trends, with partial-year data showing even higher percentage gains. Industry sources predict further expansion through value-added products like processed or branded salts. For Pakistan, this boost supports foreign exchange earnings and job creation in mining regions like Punjab’s Salt Range and Khewra Mine. It aligns with efforts to diversify exports beyond traditional commodities. Overall, the 2025 figures underscore resilient Sino-Pak economic cooperation, potentially paving the way for more diversified trade under frameworks like CPEC.

PM Shehbaz Hails PIA Privatisation as Milestone, Predicts Soaring Future Under Arif Habib
Pakistan

PM Shehbaz Hails PIA Privatisation as Milestone, Predicts Soaring Future Under Arif Habib

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif voiced strong confidence on Thursday that Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) will achieve new levels of success under the Arif Habib Consortium, following the signing of key transaction documents for the airline’s privatisation. Addressing the ceremony, he highlighted the potential for enhancements in performance, punctuality, cabin services, and professional standards, marking a turning point for the beleaguered national carrier. Milestone in Privatisation and National Progress The PM congratulated the nation on this significant achievement in PIA’s restructuring. He praised Arif Habib and his team as “business ambassadors” contributing to Pakistan’s advancement. The deal underscores efforts to revive an airline that has faced challenges in recent years. Sharif emphasized transparency, with the entire bidding process broadcast live. The final bid closed at Rs180 billion, with the consortium investing Rs135 billion in operations.The government will receive Rs55 billion from the transaction. This step aims to restore PIA’s reputation for safe and comfortable passenger experiences. Restoring Past Glory and Future Aspirations Recalling PIA’s heyday in the 1960s as a globally renowned airline. The PM stressed the new owners’ focus on innovation and sustained efforts. He expressed hope that PIA would once again elevate Pakistan’s name internationally. Acknowledgments went to federal ministers like Advisor for Privatisation Muhammad Ali. Military leaders, including Chief of Defence Forces Syed Asim Munir, were commended for their oversight. The process reflects dedication to national interests and transparent governance. Attendees included Deputy Prime Minister Ishaq Dar and senior officials. Advisor Muhammad Ali detailed the plan, assuring benefits for the public through improved services.This privatisation signals a shift towards efficient, private-led management. Overall, it positions PIA for a competitive resurgence in the global aviation sector.The event highlights optimism for economic reforms yielding tangible results.

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