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Engro Vopak Partners with S&P Global Energy to Initiate a Feasibility Study to Assess Pakistan’s First Refrigerated LPG Terminal
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Engro Vopak Partners with S&P Global Energy to Initiate a Feasibility Study to Assess Pakistan’s First Refrigerated LPG Terminal

Engro Vopak Terminal Limited (EVTL) has initiated a feasibility study for Pakistan’s first refrigerated liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) import terminal. The proposed project aims to strengthen the country’s energy security by expanding LPG import capacity, increasing storage infrastructure, and improving supply chain resilience as domestic natural gas production continues to decline. KARACHI: Engro Vopak Terminal Limited (EVTL) has announced the launch of a feasibility study for Pakistan’s first refrigerated liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) import terminal, marking a significant milestone in the country’s efforts to modernize its energy infrastructure and strengthen long-term energy security. The study will assess the technical and commercial feasibility of developing a refrigerated LPG import and storage facility capable of enhancing Pakistan’s access to international LPG markets while expanding national storage capacity. The initiative comes as Pakistan faces rising demand for cleaner fuels amid declining domestic natural gas production. EVTL Partners with S&P Global Energy To conduct the assessment, Engro Vopak Terminal Limited has partnered with S&P Global Energy, a leading global provider of energy market intelligence and advisory services. According to EVTL, the feasibility study will evaluate the technical, commercial, and operational requirements for developing Pakistan’s first refrigerated LPG import terminal. The assessment will examine: If found viable, the project could significantly improve Pakistan’s ability to meet growing domestic LPG demand. Pakistan’s First Refrigerated LPG Import Terminal The proposed facility would be the first refrigerated LPG import and storage terminal in Pakistan. Unlike conventional pressurized LPG storage systems, refrigerated terminals store liquefied petroleum gas at extremely low temperatures, enabling significantly larger storage volumes while reducing transportation and handling costs. According to EVTL, the project aims to: The company believes the investment could reduce supply disruptions while ensuring more reliable LPG availability across the country. Rising LPG Demand Drives Infrastructure Expansion Pakistan’s dependence on LPG has steadily increased as indigenous natural gas reserves continue to decline. Growing consumption by households, industries, commercial users, and the transport sector has placed increasing pressure on existing LPG import and storage infrastructure. According to EVTL, market assessments indicate Pakistan could face a widening supply gap in the coming years unless additional import capacity is developed. Industry experts also believe larger storage facilities would help stabilize supplies during seasonal demand fluctuations and reduce the impact of international price volatility. Project Follows $200 Million Port Qasim Expansion Plan The feasibility study follows the renewal of EVTL’s Implementation Agreement with the Port Qasim Authority (PQA) in June 2026. Under the renewed agreement, the company plans to invest more than $200 million to expand terminal operations and strengthen Pakistan’s bulk liquid storage infrastructure. The proposed refrigerated LPG terminal forms part of EVTL’s broader long-term expansion strategy aimed at supporting Pakistan’s evolving energy requirements. CEO Highlights Importance of Energy Security Commenting on the initiative, Syed Ammar Shah, Chief Executive Officer of Engro Vopak Terminal Limited and Engro Elengy Terminal Limited, said Pakistan’s changing energy landscape requires stronger LPG supply chains and improved access to global energy markets. He noted that expanding import infrastructure will become increasingly important as domestic energy demand continues to grow. According to Shah, the partnership combines Royal Vopak’s international expertise in bulk liquid storage with Engro’s engineering capabilities and local market knowledge. He added that many developed economies already operate refrigerated LPG terminals because of their efficiency, scalability, and ability to handle larger cargo volumes, making the feasibility study an important opportunity for Pakistan to evaluate global best practices. Modern LPG Infrastructure Could Strengthen Energy Security The development of refrigerated LPG storage infrastructure could transform Pakistan’s energy logistics by enabling larger shipments, lowering storage costs, and reducing dependence on smaller, more frequent imports. Expanded storage capacity would also create strategic reserves capable of cushioning the country against temporary supply disruptions caused by international market volatility or shipping delays. The project aligns with Pakistan’s broader strategy of modernizing energy infrastructure, diversifying fuel sources, and improving long-term energy resilience. About Engro Vopak Terminal Limited Engro Vopak Terminal Limited is a joint venture between Engro Corporation and Royal Vopak of the Netherlands, the world’s largest independent bulk liquid storage and handling company. Established in 1997, EVTL operates Pakistan’s only integrated bulk liquid chemical and LPG terminal at Port Qasim, providing storage and handling services for chemicals, petroleum products, and liquefied petroleum gas. If the refrigerated LPG terminal is found to be commercially and technically viable, it could become one of Pakistan’s most significant energy infrastructure investments, strengthening LPG supply chains, improving energy security, and supporting sustainable economic growth.

Salaried Class Paid 127% More Tax Than Real Estate Last Year
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Salaried Class Paid 127% More Tax Than Real Estate Last Year

ISLAMABAD: Pakistan’s salaried class paid approximately Rs630 billion in income tax during fiscal year 2025-26, according to provisional figures. The amount is 127 percent higher than the Rs278 billion collected from the real estate sector through withholding taxes on property sales and purchases. The latest figures also show a 4 percent increase from the Rs606 billion paid by salaried taxpayers in the previous fiscal year. Final reconciled numbers may change slightly once June book adjustments are completed. Salaried Class Remains the Largest Tax Contributor The salaried class continues to be one of Pakistan’s largest and most consistent sources of tax revenue. Despite often being described as a heavily taxed segment with limited concessions, its contribution far exceeded collections from the real estate sector. Finance Secretary Imdadullah Bosal informed the National Assembly Standing Committee on Finance that the government had provided around Rs52 billion in tax relief to salaried individuals under the new budget. The revised tax structure reduced rates across several income slabs. Individuals earning up to Rs267,000 per month now face a 20 percent tax rate, down by three percentage points. Meanwhile, the tax rate for those earning up to Rs341,000 per month has been set at 25 percent. Higher Income Threshold for Top Tax Rate The annual income threshold for the highest 35 percent tax bracket has been increased from Rs4.1 million to Rs7 million. According to government estimates, taxpayers in this bracket can save up to Rs257,000 annually under the revised tax structure. Despite these adjustments, the overall Rs52 billion relief package remains relatively modest compared to the salaried class’s total tax contribution. Book adjustments carried out by the Accountant General of Pakistan Revenue also include federal government employees and portions of tax collected from the armed forces. Real Estate Sector Receives Rs115 Billion Relief The federal budget provides significantly larger tax incentives to the real estate sector, with an estimated Rs115 billion in relief for property transactions—more than double the relief allocated to salaried taxpayers. Under the revised policy, multiple withholding tax slabs on property sales have been merged into a single 2.75 percent rate. Previously, the maximum withholding tax on property sales stood at 5.5 percent. In addition, withholding tax on property purchases has been reduced by half, falling from 2.5 percent to 1.25 percent. Budget Reverses Earlier Property Tax Tightening The tax concessions represent a shift from the government’s earlier policy of discouraging speculative investment in the real estate market through higher transaction taxes. Before the latest relief package, withholding tax collections from the property sector had increased by 17 percent year-on-year. Analysts expect the new concessions to slow future revenue growth from real estate transactions. Economists have also cautioned that lower transaction taxes could once again encourage speculative investment in property instead of directing capital toward more productive sectors of the economy. The budget also introduces similar optional fixed-tax schemes for certain trader categories, reducing compliance requirements for eligible businesses.

SBP Foreign Exchange Reserves Rise to $16.53 Billion on Multilateral Inflows
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SBP Foreign Exchange Reserves Rise to $16.53 Billion on Multilateral Inflows

SBP Foreign Exchange Reserves Rise to $16.53 Billion on Multilateral Inflows Pakistan’s foreign exchange reserves held by the State Bank of Pakistan (SBP) recorded a strong weekly increase, supported by government inflows from multilateral institutions. According to data released by the State Bank of Pakistan on Thursday, the central bank’s foreign exchange reserves rose by $610.8 million, or 3.84% week-on-week (WoW), reaching $16.53 billion during the week ended June 24, 2026. The increase reflects improved external financing and provides additional support to Pakistan’s foreign currency holdings. Multilateral Inflows Boost Reserves The SBP said the increase in reserves was mainly driven by inflows received by the Government of Pakistan from multilateral financial institutions. These inflows strengthened the central bank’s reserve position and contributed to the overall rise in the country’s liquid foreign exchange reserves. The improvement comes as Pakistan continues to secure external financing to strengthen its economy and support balance-of-payments requirements. Total Foreign Exchange Reserves Cross $22 Billion Pakistan’s total liquid foreign exchange reserves also posted a notable weekly increase. Total reserves climbed by $559.9 million, or 2.61%, to $22.04 billion, compared with $21.48 billion in the previous week. The latest figures indicate an overall improvement in the country’s external liquidity position. Commercial Banks’ Reserves Decline While the central bank’s reserves increased, foreign exchange reserves held by commercial banks recorded a slight decline. Net foreign reserves held by banks fell by $50.9 million, or 0.91% week-on-week, decreasing from $5.57 billion to $5.52 billion. Despite the decline in commercial bank holdings, the overall increase in SBP reserves was sufficient to lift Pakistan’s total foreign exchange reserves. SBP Reserves Show Growth in 2026 The latest data also showed that the SBP’s reserves have continued to strengthen since the beginning of the current calendar year. Since January 2026, the central bank’s foreign exchange reserves have increased by $471 million, representing a 2.83% rise. The steady improvement reflects continued external financing support and efforts to maintain adequate foreign exchange buffers. Weekly Foreign Exchange Reserve Position For the week ended June 24, 2026, Pakistan’s foreign exchange reserves stood as follows: Holder June 24, 2026 June 19, 2026 Change % Change State Bank of Pakistan $16.53bn $15.92bn +$610.8m +3.84% Commercial Banks $5.52bn $5.57bn -$50.9m -0.91% Total Liquid Foreign Reserves $22.04bn $21.48bn +$559.9m +2.61% The latest increase in reserves provides additional support to Pakistan’s external financial position. However, economists will continue to monitor reserve levels, external financing inflows, import payments, and debt obligations to assess the sustainability of the country’s foreign exchange position in the months ahead.

Gwadar Special Economic Zone Must Be Activated Immediately to Transform Pakistan's Economy: ABAD Chairman
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Gwadar Special Economic Zone Must Be Activated Immediately to Transform Pakistan’s Economy: ABAD Chairman

The Gwadar Special Economic Zone (SEZ) has once again taken center stage in Pakistan’s economic development agenda after Association of Builders and Developers (ABAD) Chairman Muhammad Hassan Bakhshi called on the federal government to operationalize the long-awaited industrial zone without further delay. Addressing a press conference in Gwadar, Bakhshi said Pakistan risks missing a historic opportunity to transform Gwadar into a regional hub for manufacturing, logistics, and exports if the Special Economic Zone remains inactive. He stressed that while Gwadar possesses significant strategic advantages, timely government action is essential to unlock its full economic potential. The press conference was also attended by ABAD Senior Vice Chairman Syed Afzal Hamid, former Chairman Junaid Ashraf Taloo, and ABAD Gwadar Subcommittee Convener Affan Qureshi. ABAD Calls for Relocation of Chinese Industries Bakhshi proposed the phased relocation of Chinese industries to the Gwadar Special Economic Zone, saying the move could significantly strengthen Pakistan’s export sector and industrial base. He noted that manufacturers operating from Gwadar would enjoy easier access to Central Asian markets, including Kazakhstan, Uzbekistan, and Kyrgyzstan, enhancing Pakistan’s export competitiveness while positioning Gwadar as a key trade gateway linking South Asia with Central Asia. According to Bakhshi, Gwadar should be developed not merely as a deep-sea port but as a fully integrated industrial and commercial city capable of supporting large-scale manufacturing and international trade. Strategic Location Gives Gwadar a Competitive Advantage The ABAD chairman described Gwadar as Pakistan’s future economic engine due to its strategic location and naturally deep-water port. However, he emphasized that infrastructure alone will not attract investors. The government must also simplify investment procedures, strengthen supporting infrastructure, and introduce investor-friendly policies to build confidence among local and foreign businesses. He said activating the Special Economic Zone would send a strong positive signal to investors and accelerate industrial development in the region. Local Communities Should Benefit from Development Bakhshi stressed that Gwadar’s development should directly improve the lives of local residents. He urged the government to prioritize employment opportunities, vocational training, business financing, and affordable loans for the people of Gwadar so they can actively participate in the city’s economic transformation. According to him, sustainable development can only be achieved when local communities become partners in growth rather than passive observers. Fisheries and Tourism Offer Major Growth Opportunities Highlighting Balochistan’s untapped economic potential, Bakhshi said sectors such as fisheries, tourism, natural resources, and private investment require immediate attention. He proposed interest-free financing for fishermen to modernize their boats, install advanced equipment, and meet international seafood export standards. He said these initiatives would increase export earnings while improving the livelihoods of coastal communities across Balochistan. Better Connectivity and Stronger Gwadar Development Authority Needed Bakhshi also called for expanding domestic and international flight operations to Gwadar to improve connectivity for investors, exporters, tourists, and business travelers. He further recommended granting greater financial autonomy and administrative authority to the Gwadar Development Authority (GDA), enabling it to implement development projects more efficiently. Additionally, he suggested that the federal government directly finance key infrastructure projects while the Chief Minister and Chief Secretary of Balochistan conduct regular monthly visits to monitor progress and address local concerns. Gwadar SEZ Can Transform Pakistan’s Trade Landscape Concluding his remarks, Bakhshi said Pakistan has reached a critical stage where decisive action could transform Gwadar into the country’s leading center for manufacturing, exports, logistics, and foreign investment. He said the Gwadar Special Economic Zone has the potential to accelerate economic growth, create thousands of jobs, attract billions of dollars in investment, and strengthen Pakistan’s position as a regional trade corridor connecting South Asia, Central Asia, China, and the Middle East. According to ABAD, activating the Gwadar Special Economic Zone is no longer just a development objective but a strategic economic priority that could redefine Pakistan’s long-term growth trajectory.

K-Solar, owned by KE, and China’s Mingyang sign MoU to bring advanced wind energy and BESS solutions to Pakistan
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K-Solar, owned by KE, and China’s Mingyang sign MoU to bring advanced wind energy and BESS solutions to Pakistan

K-Solar (Private) Limited, a wholly owned subsidiary of K-Electric’s investment arm KE Ventures Company (Pvt) Limited, has signed a strategic agreement with Mingyang Smart Energy Group Limited, one of the world’s largest wind turbine manufacturers and a leading supplier of Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESS). The partnership aims to accelerate the adoption of wind energy and battery storage solutions in Pakistan while supporting the country’s transition toward cleaner and more reliable energy. Read More: https://theboardroompk.com/gold-prices-fall-as-fed-rate-hike-fears-spark-biggest-quarterly-crash-in-13-years/ The agreement also outlines plans to explore the establishment of a Battery Energy Storage System (BESS) assembly plant in Pakistan, strengthening local manufacturing capabilities and supporting the renewable energy ecosystem. K-Solar and Mingyang Sign Strategic MoU Under the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU), K-Solar and Mingyang will collaborate to market, supply, and finance wind power projects and battery energy storage systems for Pakistan’s power grid, as well as the commercial and industrial sectors. The partnership is expected to combine Mingyang’s global expertise in renewable energy technologies with K-Solar’s local market presence and execution capabilities. Both companies will work toward signing a comprehensive framework agreement in the coming weeks to formalize the collaboration. Partnership to Support Wind Power and Energy Storage The agreement focuses on expanding access to utility-scale wind energy and Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESS), which play a critical role in improving grid stability and maximizing the use of renewable energy. Battery storage technologies help balance electricity supply and demand, reduce the impact of intermittent renewable generation, and enhance the reliability of power systems. The proposed local BESS assembly plant could also contribute to technology transfer, job creation, and the development of Pakistan’s clean energy manufacturing sector. K-Solar Highlights Renewable Energy Potential Chairman Muhammad Aamir Ghaziani said wind power is becoming an increasingly important component of Pakistan’s energy transition due to its competitive generation costs and ability to complement the country’s existing energy mix. He noted that Battery Energy Storage Systems offer significant opportunities to improve grid stability, manage renewable energy intermittency, and unlock greater value from clean power generation. Falling Technology Costs Drive Market Growth K-Solar Chief Executive Officer Hashim Raza said Pakistan’s energy transition requires a combination of advanced technology, local financing, and efficient project execution. He highlighted that declining costs of wind turbines and battery storage technologies worldwide have accelerated renewable energy adoption, creating new opportunities for Pakistan’s growing clean energy market. According to Raza, the K-Solar-Mingyang partnership is well positioned to capitalize on this trend by delivering world-class renewable energy solutions to local businesses and utilities. Mingyang Sees Pakistan as a Growth Market Miao Desheng, General Manager of Mingyang Middle East and Africa (MEA), said the company is pleased to strengthen its presence in Pakistan through its collaboration with K-Solar. He described Pakistan as an important growth market for wind energy and battery storage solutions, adding that the partnership will enable Mingyang to supply wind turbines, BESS technologies, electrical equipment, and software while supporting local assembly capabilities. The company believes the collaboration will contribute to Pakistan’s transition toward affordable, reliable, and sustainable energy. Boosting Pakistan’s Clean Energy Transition The partnership reflects growing momentum in Pakistan’s renewable energy sector as businesses increasingly invest in clean power generation and energy storage technologies. By combining international expertise with local execution and financing, K-Solar and Mingyang aim to accelerate wind energy deployment, improve energy security, and support Pakistan’s long-term sustainability goals.

Gold Prices Fall Below $4,000 as Strong Dollar and Fed Rate Hike Expectations Weigh on Market
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Gold Prices Fall Below $4,000 as Strong Dollar and Fed Rate Hike Expectations Weigh on Market

Gold prices extended their decline on Thursday, remaining near a more than seven-month low as investors reacted to a stronger US dollar and growing expectations that the US Federal Reserve could raise interest rates further this year. The precious metal continued to face selling pressure after falling below the key $4,000-per-ounce level during the previous session, a threshold it had not breached since November 2025. Gold Remains Near Seven-Month Low Spot gold fell 0.4% to $3,985.89 per ounce in early trading, after touching its lowest level in more than seven months on Wednesday. Meanwhile, US gold futures for August delivery slipped 0.2% to $4,001.60 per ounce, reflecting continued caution among investors ahead of key US economic data. The latest decline highlights growing concerns that tighter monetary policy in the United States could reduce the appeal of non-yielding assets such as gold. Strong Dollar Pressures Bullion Market A major factor behind the recent weakness in gold prices has been the strength of the US dollar. The dollar climbed for a third consecutive day on Wednesday, reaching its highest level in 13 months. A stronger greenback makes gold more expensive for holders of other currencies, often reducing international demand for the precious metal. As a result, investors shifted toward the dollar, placing additional downward pressure on bullion prices. Traders Increase Bets on Fed Rate Hikes Market expectations regarding Federal Reserve policy have also weighed heavily on gold. According to market pricing tracked by the CME FedWatch Tool, traders now expect as many as three Federal Reserve interest rate increases this year. Investors are also assigning roughly a 67% probability to a rate hike in September. Higher interest rates typically reduce the attractiveness of gold because the metal does not offer interest or dividend income. As yields on other assets rise, investors often move funds away from bullion and into interest-bearing investments. Investors Await Key Inflation Data Market participants are closely watching upcoming US inflation figures for additional clues about the Federal Reserve’s next policy move. The US Personal Consumption Expenditures (PCE) Index, the Fed’s preferred measure of inflation, is scheduled for release later in the day. Economists and investors expect the report to play a crucial role in shaping expectations for future interest rate decisions. Any signs of persistent inflation could strengthen the case for additional rate hikes and potentially place further pressure on gold prices. US Treasury Secretary Comments on Fed Policy US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent also weighed in on monetary policy discussions on Wednesday. He welcomed Federal Reserve Chair Kevin Warsh’s proposal to reduce the central bank’s use of forward guidance on interest rates. However, Bessent emphasized that policymakers should remain open-minded regarding the potential inflationary effects of the ongoing conflict involving Iran. His remarks added to market speculation over how geopolitical developments could influence inflation and future monetary policy decisions. Middle East Developments Remain in Focus Investors are also monitoring geopolitical developments in the Middle East. Officials from Lebanon and Israel confirmed discussions regarding a US-backed proposal under which Israeli forces would transfer some territory occupied during the conflict with Hezbollah to the Lebanese military. The proposal is being viewed as a potential step toward restoring Lebanese control over disputed areas and easing regional tensions. While geopolitical uncertainty often supports gold prices due to its safe-haven status, current market sentiment remains dominated by monetary policy expectations and currency movements. Other Precious Metals Show Mixed Performance The broader precious metals market showed mixed results during Thursday’s trading session. Spot silver declined 0.2% to $57.33 per ounce, while platinum lost 0.2% to $1,575.85 per ounce. In contrast, palladium recorded modest gains, rising 0.3% to $1,170.25 per ounce. Market Outlook Gold prices remain under pressure as investors assess the outlook for US interest rates and await fresh inflation data. The combination of a stronger dollar, rising Treasury yields, and expectations of additional Federal Reserve tightening has weakened demand for bullion in recent sessions. Analysts believe upcoming economic indicators, particularly inflation data, will likely determine whether gold can stabilize above current levels or face further declines in the weeks ahead.

Chery Master Pakistan Rolls Off Locally Assembled Tiggo 7 PHEV, Expands PHEV SUV Lineup
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Chery Master Pakistan Rolls Off Locally Assembled Tiggo 7 PHEV, Expands PHEV SUV Lineup

Karachi, June 25: Chery Master Pakistan has rolled off the locally assembled Tiggo 7 PHEV, adding a third plug-in hybrid SUV to its Pakistan portfolio and strengthening its presence in the country’s growing new energy vehicle segment. With the addition of Tiggo 7 PHEV, the company now has three locally assembled PHEV SUVs in production, including Tiggo 8 PHEV and Tiggo 9 PHEV. The lineup covers the C, D and E-SUV segments, making it one of the most extensive locally assembled plug-in hybrid SUV portfolios currently available in Pakistan. The development follows the earlier line-off of Tiggo 8 PHEV and Tiggo 9 PHEV, which were rolled out within five days of each other, followed by customer deliveries ahead of committed timelines. The company said the latest rollout reflects its focus on localization, production readiness and timely deliveries. The milestone also comes at a time when the auto sector is closely watching possible policy and tax changes that could affect vehicle prices. Chery Master Pakistan said it has increased production capacity and moved to double-shift operations to facilitate deliveries for existing customers and new bookings placed during June across its model lineup. The Tiggo 7 PHEV was launched in Pakistan at an introductory ex-factory price of PKR 9,499,000, with a booking amount of PKR 1,500,000. Test drives and bookings are available through Chery dealerships nationwide. Powered by Chery Super Hybrid technology, the Tiggo 7 PHEV offers 342 horsepower and 525 Nm of torque, with up to 90 km of pure electric driving range and a combined range of up to 1,200 km. The vehicle is equipped with eight airbags, Level 2 ADAS and a 5-star safety rating. Speaking on the occasion, CEO Master Auto Engineering, Samir Malik, said the rollout of Tiggo 7 PHEV marks another step in the company’s long-term commitment to Pakistan. “The successful rollout of Tiggo 8 PHEV, Tiggo 9 PHEV and now Tiggo 7 PHEV reflects our ability to combine global technology, manufacturing quality and customer value with rapid execution,” he said. “We have increased production capacity and moved to double-shift operations to facilitate deliveries for existing customers as well as new bookings placed during June.” Globally, Chery has been China’s leading automotive exporter for 23 consecutive years, with operations in more than 130 countries and regions and over 19 million users worldwide. In Pakistan, the brand is backed by Master Group’s 40 years of automotive manufacturing expertise.

DHA City Karachi Concludes Overseas Enclave Registration Drive Amid Overwhelming Global Response
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DHA City Karachi Concludes Overseas Enclave Registration Drive Amid Overwhelming Global Response

KARACHI June 23, 2026: DHA City Karachi (DHAC) today officially announced the highly successful conclusion of its international registration drive for the prestigious residential development, the DHA City Karachi Indus Hills (Overseas Enclave). Designed exclusively to provide premium investment and residential infrastructure for overseas Pakistani citizens, the campaign curated to cater unprecedented demand from expatriate networks across the globe was received by them with such an overwhelming response which is testimonial of buyer’s trust in brand DHAC and increasing interest in the up and coming city of future. Backed by a highly targeted digital marketing framework spanning global web platforms and social media ecosystems, the project enrollment cycle reached its definitive close on the night of June 22, 2026.Today’s computerized ballot results would be displayed on our website and successful allotees would be informed via email also.

Punjab Imposes Emergency Prohibition On String Beverages In Rawat Over Food Safety Violations
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Punjab Imposes Emergency Prohibition On String Beverages In Rawat Over Food Safety Violations

RAWALPINDI. The Punjab Food Authority has imposed an Emergency Prohibition Order on String Beverages Private Limited, an unregistered carbonated drinks plant in Rawat Industrial Estate, following multiple food safety violations found during an inspection on 16 June 2026. According to the inspection report, the facility located at Plot 3, Street W-4, RCCI, Rawat Industrial Estate, was found storing unapproved and unregistered products on the premises. The authority also noted that the company’s “Big Apple” and “Biggie Lychee” carbonated drinks bore a close resemblance to other brands already available in the market. Other violations included lack of an Integrated Pest Management system, stagnant water on premises, presence of junk material, poor handling of raw material, sweeteners used in products not declared on labels, and packing material stored directly on the floor. As part of the action, food samples of 1 unit each of Biggie Lychee carbonated lychee-flavoured drink and Big Apple carbonated apple-flavoured drink were collected for laboratory testing. Inspection records show the unit was previously marked “Temporary Closed / Not Operational” on 8 December 2025 before being served the Emergency Prohibition Order on 16 June 2026.The PFA stated that production and sale of the flagged products will remain suspended until the unit complies with food safety standards and regulations.

IMF Rejects 1% Sales Tax on New Energy Vehicles
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IMF Rejects 1% Sales Tax on New Energy Vehicles

The International Monetary Fund has turned down the government’s proposal to charge only 1% sales tax on new energy vehicles, including electric vehicles. The decision has added fresh uncertainty to the finalisation of the Auto Policy 2026-31 at a time when the existing policy is set to expire this month. Any tax changes must be incorporated into the budget that the National Assembly is expected to pass shortly. IMF Insists on Standard Rate and Direct Subsidies Government officials shared the tax proposals with the IMF on Thursday. They had suggested a 1% sales tax on new energy vehicles and a 50% reduction in the standard 18% rate for hybrid vehicles. The IMF rejected the idea of any concessional sales tax rates for vehicles. It maintained that the full 18% rate should apply and that any support for buyers or the industry should come through direct subsidies instead. This approach, according to the Fund, helps protect the overall tax base and avoids permanent distortions. Finance ministry sources said the IMF asked for more clarifications on the proposals. The IMF resident representative did not respond to requests for comment. Special Assistant to the Prime Minister on Industry Haroon Akhtar Khan also declined to confirm whether the 1% rate proposal had been rejected.The lender’s position reflects its broader focus on revenue mobilisation under Pakistan’s ongoing programme. Reduced rates on vehicles would have lowered collections at a time when the government has committed to corrective measures if revenues fall short by December.Policy Finalisation Faces Procedural and Coordination Hurdles The disagreement has made it harder to complete the Auto Policy 2026-31 before the June 24 target. Internal meetings, including those chaired by Deputy Prime Minister Ishaq Dar, have remained inconclusive so far. A key reason is that the Ministry of Industries and Production did not carry out inter-ministerial consultations as required under the Rules of Business. This lapse has created friction with the Ministry of Commerce, which is the custodian of the National Tariff Policy. The auto policy must align with the tariff rationalisation framework now in its second year. Without quick resolution, the new policy risks missing the window to be reflected in the finance bill.The impasse comes at a sensitive moment for the automobile sector. Higher sales tax on new energy vehicles would likely push up their prices and slow the shift toward cleaner mobility. At the same time, sticking to the IMF’s advice could help maintain fiscal discipline and prevent future revenue gaps that might require additional taxation measures later in the year.

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