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Pakistan to Save $17 Billion by Scrapping 8,000 MW Expensive Electricity Procurement
Pakistan

Pakistan to Save $17 Billion by Scrapping 8,000 MW Expensive Electricity Procurement

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The Pakistani government has decided to abandon the procurement of approximately 8,000 megawatts of expensive electricity, a strategic move projected to generate savings of nearly USD 17 billion, according to Federal Minister for Power Sardar Awais Ahmed Khan Leghari. Read More: https://theboardroompk.com/pakistan-poised-for-lng-revival-in-2026-as-global-prices-dip-exporters-hope-amid-domestic-challenges/ Speaking at a news conference on Sunday, the minister emphasized that the decision was taken purely on merit to alleviate financial pressures on the power sector and the federal government. This step forms part of broader reforms aimed at curbing inefficiencies, with losses incurred by distribution companies (DISCOs) currently absorbed by the government rather than passed directly to consumers. The announcement comes amid ongoing efforts to stabilize the energy sector, reduce circular debt, and provide relief through lower tariffs. Power Sector Reforms and Financial Gains Significant progress has already been reported under these reforms. Losses in the power distribution system have dropped from Rs 586 billion to Rs 393 billion, while recoveries have improved by Rs 183 billion. Circular debt, a longstanding burden, declined by Rs 780 billion in the previous year. The minister highlighted that abandoning the costly 8,000 MW procurement will prevent additional strain on public finances, freeing resources for other priorities. These measures align with comprehensive changes to enhance efficiency, boost collection rates, and minimize wasteful expenditure in the sector. Path to Affordable and Competitive Electricity Power tariffs have already been reduced by 20 percent nationally over the last two years, offering some respite to households and industries. Looking ahead, the government, under Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif’s leadership, aims to bring electricity prices in line with international rates within the next 18 months. The minister stressed that these reforms prioritize merit-based decisions to ensure sustainable, affordable energy. While specific details on the abandoned projects (such as fuel types or plants) were not outlined, the focus remains on retiring or shifting away from high-cost sources to foster long-term economic stability and consumer relief.

Government Quietly Jacks Up Petroleum Levy by Rs24 to Record Rs84.27/ltr
Pakistan

Government Quietly Jacks Up Petroleum Levy by Rs24 to Record Rs84.27/ltr

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Islamabad – January 17, 2026: Despite significant declines in ex-refinery prices (Petrol down Rs32.33/ltr and High-Speed Diesel down Rs25.06/ltr since March 2025), the government has substantially increased the Petroleum Development Levy (PDL) — pushing it to Rs84.27/ltr on MS (petrol) and Rs76.21/ltr on HSD (diesel). Read More: https://theboardroompk.com/pakistan-large-scale-manufacturing-growth-sparks-new-optimism-across-industries/ According to a detailed analysis by Arif Habib Limited, this strategy has allowed retail prices to remain relatively stable (currently Rs253.17/ltr for petrol and Rs257.08/ltr for diesel as of mid-January 2026) while significantly boosting government revenue. Half-year collections have already reached ~Rs748.5 billion toward the ambitious full-year FY26 target of Rs1,468 billion, putting the government broadly on track for one of the highest-ever petroleum levy hauls.Headline: Smart Revenue Play: Falling Global Oil Prices Used to Fund Rs1,468 Billion FY26 Levy Target While international oil prices and local ex-refinery costs have trended downward for most of 2025–2026, the government has utilized this space to sharply raise the Petroleum Development Levy — up from the earlier baseline of Rs60/ltr to current levels of Rs84.27/ltr (petrol) and Rs76.21/ltr (diesel). Market experts at Arif Habib Limited highlight this as a deliberate fiscal move that cushions retail prices from global volatility while accelerating non-tax revenue collection — critical for meeting IMF-aligned fiscal targets and funding the budget without direct pump-price shocks.

Pakistan's Tractor Sales Plunge to Two-Decade Low in 2025 Amid Farm Distress
Pakistan

Pakistan’s Tractor Sales Plunge to Two-Decade Low in 2025 Amid Farm Distress

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Pakistan’s tractor industry endured one of its most challenging years in nearly two decades during calendar year 2025, with sales plummeting to levels not seen since the early 2000s.Data compiled by Topline Securities from the Pakistan Automotive Manufacturers Association (PAMA) indicates that annual tractor sales reached only 24,724 units in 2025. Read More: https://theboardroompk.com/agriculture-lab-on-wheels-punjab-transforming-farm-services-through-mobile-innovation/ This represents a steep decline from 39,480 units in 2024 and significantly lower than peak years such as 66,060 units in 2017.The sharp downturn reflects severe distress in Pakistan’s agrarian sector, which remains the backbone of the economy, employing a large portion of the population and contributing substantially to GDP. Underlying Causes of the Sales Collapse Weak farm economics were the primary driver behind the subdued demand. Farmers grappled with persistently low prices for major crops including wheat, rice, cotton, and sugarcane, often failing to cover production costs amid global commodity fluctuations and domestic market pressures. Input costs surged for fertilizers, pesticides, diesel, and other essentials, squeezing already thin profit margins.High inflation throughout much of 2025 eroded rural purchasing power, while limited access to affordable credit and high financing costs made large capital investments like tractors out of reach for small and medium-scale farmers. Economic uncertainty, including currency volatility and policy inconsistencies, further discouraged purchases. Industry reports highlight that mechanization levels in Pakistan lag far behind regional and global averages, with low horsepower availability per cultivated acre hindering productivity gains and exacerbating the cycle of low incomes. Broader Industry and Economic Impact The tractor sector’s slump had ripple effects across the supply chain. Local manufacturers, including major players like Millat Tractors (Massey Ferguson) and Al-Ghazi Tractors (New Holland/Fiat), faced reduced production, idle capacity, and pressure on employment. The industry supports thousands of direct jobs and an extensive network of vendors and dealers in rural areas. Delayed mechanization also threatened long-term agricultural output, food security, and export potential in a country where agriculture accounts for a significant share of economic activity. Earlier in 2025, reports noted sales in fiscal year 2024-25 hitting a 22-year low of around 29,192 units, underscoring a prolonged crisis that carried into the calendar year. Signs of Hope and Projections for 2026 Analysts remain cautiously optimistic about a turnaround in 2026. Topline Securities projects tractor sales to rebound by 15–20%, driven by gradually improving farm economics. Expectations include stabilization or modest recovery in crop prices, continued easing of inflation, and potentially lower interest rates that could improve credit availability for farmers. Government initiatives—such as targeted subsidies for agricultural machinery, better rural financing schemes, and policies to support mechanization—could provide additional momentum. Recent trends in the broader auto sector, including stronger passenger vehicle and two-wheeler sales in late 2025 due to macroeconomic improvements, suggest a favorable environment may extend to tractors. However, sustained recovery will hinge on consistent policy support, resolution of input cost pressures, and broader rural development efforts. The 2025 performance serves as a stark reminder of the vulnerabilities in Pakistan’s agriculture-dependent economy and the urgent need for structural reforms to boost farm profitability and mechanization.

Pakistan's 5G Push: Zong Introduces Diverse ZTE Devices with Inclusive Financing
Pakistan

Pakistan’s 5G Push: Zong Introduces Diverse ZTE Devices with Inclusive Financing

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Zong, Pakistan’s leading digital services provider, has entered into a strategic Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with global technology giant ZTE Corporation and its authorized distributor Siccotel. Read More: https://theboardroompk.com/power-generation-slows-in-november-as-energy-mix-shifts-to-cheaper-sources/ The partnership, announced on January 16, 2026, aims to accelerate the adoption of 5G technology across the country by expanding access to affordable and advanced smartphones. This collaboration focuses on introducing a wider range of 5G-enabled devices, innovative financing options, and bundled services to make next-generation connectivity more inclusive for Pakistani users, aligning with the national goal of building a fully digital Pakistan. Broadening Device Accessibility for All Segments The core of the agreement lies in diversifying Zong’s smartphone portfolio through ZTE’s offerings. This includes entry-level 5G handsets for budget-conscious consumers, mid-to-high-tier models for mainstream users, and specialized gaming-focused devices tailored to tech-savvy youth and high-performance needs. By leveraging Siccotel’s strong distribution network, these devices will reach a broader audience nationwide. The initiative addresses the current gap in smartphone penetration and 5G readiness, ensuring that advanced technology is not limited to premium segments but becomes available to everyday Pakistanis. This move is expected to drive higher adoption rates as 5G networks prepare for commercial rollout. Empowering Digital Transformation and Innovation Sajid Munir, Head of Marketing at Zong, emphasized the partnership’s significance: “This represents a major step in Zong’s strategic direction to accelerate Pakistan’s digital transformation. With 5G on the horizon and smartphone penetration still evolving, it is critical to ensure that advanced technology is both accessible and affordable.” The collaboration combines cutting-edge hardware, flexible payment solutions, and value-added service bundles to foster greater participation in the digital economy. It promises to unlock new opportunities in connectivity, innovation, and engagement, supporting emerging applications like IoT, gaming, and smart services while contributing to a more connected and progressive Pakistan.

Mahmood Khan Achakzai Notified as Leader of Opposition in National Assembly on PTI Nomination
Pakistan

Mahmood Khan Achakzai Notified as Leader of Opposition in National Assembly on PTI Nomination

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The National Assembly Secretariat has officially notified Mahmood Khan Achakzai, a prominent Member of the National Assembly (MNA) and senior parliamentarian, as the Leader of the Opposition in the lower house of parliament. Read More: https://theboardroompk.com/pakistan-freezes-gas-prices-for-six-months-to-provide-winter-relief/ The notification, issued on January 16, 2026, under Rule 39 of the Rules of Procedure and Conduct of Business in the National Assembly, 2007, was approved by Speaker Sardar Ayaz Sadiq and took immediate effect. Achakzai, who heads the Pashtunkhwa Milli Awami Party (PkMAP) and leads the opposition alliance Tehreek Tahafuz Ayeen-i-Pakistan (TTAP), assumes this key constitutional role after months of vacancy following the disqualification of the previous holder, PTI’s Omar Ayub, in August 2025. End to Prolonged Vacancy and Political Negotiations The position had remained unfilled for nearly five months amid shifting parliamentary dynamics and opposition coordination. Achakzai’s nomination was backed by a significant number of opposition members—reportedly 76 signatures—and formally proposed by PTI founder Imran Khan, with PTI Chairman Barrister Gohar Ali Khan confirming the submission of papers. After verification and no competing nominations, the Speaker finalized the appointment following recent meetings with opposition representatives. This development resolves ongoing discussions in political circles and restores structured parliamentary oversight from the opposition benches. Significance for Opposition Role and Democratic Oversight As Leader of the Opposition, Achakzai will play a pivotal constitutional function, including consultation on major state appointments, leading parliamentary debates, and ensuring government accountability. Known for advocating democratic rights, constitutionalism, and federalism, his leadership is expected to strengthen opposition unity within the TTAP alliance, which includes PTI and other groups. The appointment comes at a critical time for Pakistan’s political landscape, potentially enhancing checks and balances in the National Assembly while fostering greater engagement on national issues. It marks a milestone for smaller parties like PkMAP in securing influential roles at the federal level.

KSE-100 Index Climbs 3,642 Points as Market Optimism Prevails
Pakistan

KSE-100 Index Climbs 3,642 Points as Market Optimism Prevails

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The KSE-100 Index concluded Friday’s trading session at 185,098.83 points, marking a remarkable 2.01% increase (+3,642.50 points). Investors’ confidence remained high throughout the day, with the index hitting an intraday high of 185,208.98 (+3,752.65) and a low of 182,559.69 (+1,103.36) points. Market sentiment was bolstered by the federal government’s decision to maintain current fuel prices for the fortnight starting January 16, 2026. High-Speed Diesel remains at Rs257.08 per litre, while petrol continues at Rs253.17 per litre, providing relief to both businesses and consumers. Global Developments Add to KSE-100 Index Momentum Internationally, fears of a US-Iran confrontation that had previously rattled markets eased as Washington scaled back its military presence in the Middle East. This reduction in geopolitical tension played a significant role in supporting the KSE-100 Index, highlighting the growing sensitivity of local markets to global developments. Trading Overview: Gains, Losers, and Market Volume The total volume traded on the KSE-100 Index reached 381.92 million shares. Out of 100 index companies, 89 closed higher, 11 fell, and none remained unchanged. Top Gainers: • THALL: +10.00%• JVDC: +10.00%• OGDC: +6.75%• PPL: +5.96%• PKGS: +5.57% Top Losers: • MEHT: -3.22%• KAPCO: -1.24%• UPFL: -1.20%• GADT: -1.05%• PIOC: -0.92% Index Contribution Highlights: • OGDC: +457.09 points• PPL: +339.24 points• HUBC: +219.60 points• ENGROH: +187.38 points• FFC: +185.86 points Meanwhile, the companies pulling the index lower included POL (-13.90 pts), PIOC (-13.20 pts), and MEHT (-8.16 pts). Sector-Wise Performance Driving KSE-100 Index Several sectors led the market’s upward momentum: • Oil & Gas Exploration Companies: +886.47 points• Commercial Banks: +800.78 points• Fertilizer: +345.51 points• Power Generation & Distribution: +235.59 points• Investment Banks / Securities Companies: +211.72 points Conversely, the index saw minimal drag from: • Textile Spinning: -1.04 points• Sugar & Allied Industries: -0.61 points This sector-level performance reflects a strong underlying market breadth, indicating broad investor participation rather than concentration in a few high-profile stocks. Broader Market Snapshot The All-Share Index closed at 111,509.34 points, up 2,327.02 points (+2.13%). Market turnover surged to 959.53 million shares, compared to 820.03 million in the previous session. Traded value reached Rs69.46 billion, showing a substantial increase of Rs23.49 billion.There were 451,058 trades across 482 companies, with 334 closing up, 117 closing down, and 31 unchanged. Top Ten Stocks by Volume: KSE-100 Index Shows Strong Year-to-Date Performance The KSE-100 Index has recorded substantial growth over the fiscal year, gaining 59,472 points (+47.34%), while posting a 6.35% increase (+11,045 points) in the current calendar year. This growth highlights resilient market dynamics and investor confidence amid both domestic and global economic factors. Key Takeaways • Fuel price stability continues to boost market sentiment.• Sector-led gains in Oil & Gas, Banks, and Fertilizers drove index performance.• Global geopolitical easing positively impacted investor confidence.• Broader market volumes and traded value surged, reflecting active participation. Investors will likely watch the KSE-100 Index closely in the coming sessions as markets digest domestic policy cues and international developments.

SBP Launches WE-Finance Code to Empower Women Entrepreneurs in Pakistan
Pakistan

SBP Launches WE-Finance Code to Empower Women Entrepreneurs in Pakistan

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The State Bank of Pakistan (SBP) has officially kicked off the implementation of the WE-Finance Code, a bold initiative designed to empower women entrepreneurs and transform their access to finance across the nation. The move marks a critical step in Pakistan’s journey toward inclusive economic growth, creating pathways for women-led businesses to thrive in both conventional and digital financial ecosystems. Read More: https://theboardroompk.com/pakistan-poised-for-lng-revival-in-2026-as-global-prices-dip-exporters-hope-amid-domestic-challenges/ “We are building pathways that ensure women entrepreneurs can fully participate in and contribute to Pakistan’s economic growth,” said Mr. Saleem Ullah, Deputy Governor of SBP, at the inaugural Women Entrepreneurship Finance (WE-FI) Code Consultative Workshop. This milestone aligns with SBP’s Strategic Plan 2028, emphasizing financial inclusion, gender equality, and sustainable development. Understanding the WE-Finance Code: A Game-Changer for Women Entrepreneurs Adopted on July 7, 2025, the WE-Finance Code addresses structural barriers that have historically limited women entrepreneurs from accessing formal credit. Its framework is action-oriented, aiming to: • Expand financial access for women-led businesses• Promote gender-intelligent product innovation• Strengthen credit appraisal mechanisms tailored to women-led MSMEs SBP leads a coalition of 23 financial institutions covering conventional, Islamic, and microfinance banks along with the Pakistan Banks Association (PBA). Together, they are committed to operationalizing the Code across Pakistan’s financial sector. Workshop Highlights: Driving Action Through Collaboration To officially launch the implementation, SBP and the Asian Development Bank (ADB) hosted a two-day Consultative Workshop in Islamabad, bringing together banks, regulators, and development partners. The workshop focused on: Participants also reviewed existing gaps in women’s financial inclusion and formulated a forward-looking National Action Plan under the WE-Finance Code. The discussions emphasized market segmentation for women, portfolio strategies focused on women-led MSMEs, and reinforcing institutional commitment through the WE-Finance Code Charter. Expanding the Coalition: Roadshows and Policy Dialogues Prior to the workshop, SBP and ADB officials conducted a WE-FI Code Roadshow, engaging key stakeholders beyond the financial sector. Strategic dialogues were held with: • Securities and Exchange Commission of Pakistan (SECP)• Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA)• Small and Medium Enterprises Development Authority (SMEDA) These discussions aimed to strengthen policy coordination, enhance inter-agency collaboration, and build a robust national coalition supporting the WE-Finance Code. Through these efforts, SBP is ensuring that the initiative not only reforms banking practices but also accelerates women-led entrepreneurship, ultimately fueling sustainable economic growth. The Road Ahead: A Transformative Shift for Pakistan With the WE-Finance Code now in motion, Pakistan stands at the threshold of a transformative financial revolution. Women entrepreneurs long constrained by structural and institutional barriers can expect: • Greater access to credit and financial services• Innovative products tailored to their business needs• Enhanced support through digital finance initiatives By driving these initiatives, SBP is not only fostering financial inclusion but also creating an ecosystem where women-led businesses can thrive, contributing meaningfully to Pakistan’s economic growth and sustainability goals.

President FPCCI Atif Ikram Sheikh Says Govt Must Declare Industrial Emergency to Avert Economic Collapse
Pakistan

President FPCCI Atif Ikram Sheikh Says Govt Must Declare Industrial Emergency to Avert Economic Collapse

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Atif Ikram Sheikh, President FPCCI, has made a fervent appeal to the federal government to immediately declare an industrial emergency in Pakistan; warning that the country’s manufacturing base is teetering on the brink of a systemic and irreversible collapse. He reiterated that FPCCI rejects incremental package as no industry received electricity bill at PKR. 22 per unit and they continue to receive the bills at PKR. 34 – 35 per unit. Read More: https://theboardroompk.com/gas-supply-in-karachi-disrupted-amid-reduced-output-from-two-gas-fields/ FPCCI President Mr. Atif Ikram Sheikh and United Business Group (UBG) Patron-in-Chief Mr. S. M. Tanveer have asserted that a lethal combination of regionally-uncompetitive energy tariffs; exorbitant interest rates and a restrictive taxation regime has made it nearly impossible for local industries to compete in the global marketplace. They also highlighted the plight of stagnating real estate sector as 40 allied industries are also suffering along with it. Atif Ikram Sheikh maintained that, on excessive income tax rates, FPCCI demands the reduction of income tax on industry from 39% to 20% and it advocates the maximum income tax on the salaried class at 15%. Whereas, tariff of gas for industries should be brought down to PKR. 2,400 / MMBTU from the current PKR. 3,900 / MMBTU for export competitiveness. Atif Ikram Sheikh highlighted the alarming disparity in utility costs – noting that Pakistani exporters are currently burdened with electricity tariff of 12.5 cents per unit; while regional rivals in India, Bangladesh and Vietnam are operating at significantly lower rates of 6 to 9 cents – who are the major competitors of Pakistani products in the export markets. Atif Ikram Sheikh further argued that this gap has triggered a rapid process of de-industrialization; leading to the closure of hundreds of units and a mass exodus of capital to more business-friendly countries. Therefore, the industry can no longer sustain the cross-subsidy burden – which is effectively a hidden tax used to subsidize other sectors at the cost of national productivity.

Pakistan Poised for LNG Revival in 2026 as Global Prices Dip: Exporters' Hope Amid Domestic Challenges
Pakistan

Pakistan Poised for LNG Revival in 2026 as Global Prices Dip: Exporters’ Hope Amid Domestic Challenges

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Global LNG exporters eye cautious optimism for 2026 amid surging supply and patchy demand, with Reuters noting that lower prices could revive interest in cost-sensitive markets such as Pakistan. After a year of reduced Asian imports—including notable cuts by China, Japan, and India—exporters hope that expanded production will drive spot prices down, boosting affordability and consumption in emerging economies facing energy needs. Read More: https://theboardroompk.com/gas-supply-in-karachi-disrupted-amid-reduced-output-from-two-gas-fields/ Opportunities for Pakistan’s Energy Security Pakistan stands to benefit significantly if global LNG prices soften in 2026. As a price-sensitive importer reliant on long-term contracts (primarily from Qatar), lower international benchmarks could ease the financial strain from high regasified LNG (RLNG) costs that have constrained industrial and power sector use. Bullish forecasts suggest this could encourage higher utilization of imported gas for electricity generation and industrial revival, supporting economic growth amid efforts to stabilize macro conditions through IMF support and lower interest rates. Earlier projections from mid-2025 anticipated steady or slightly rising LNG demand (around 1,000-1,200 MMcf/d) tied to improved stability, and cheaper cargoes could align with this by reducing diversion needs and enabling fuller contract uptake. This would enhance energy availability, reduce reliance on expensive alternatives, and aid in bridging domestic gas shortfalls without straining foreign reserves further.

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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