Business

The Federation of Pakistan Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FPCCI) has praised the government for presenting a pro-business budget for the fiscal year 2026-27. This budget is designed to foster economic growth and enhance business activities. Alignment with Business Needs On Saturday, the FPCCI released a statement emphasizing that the budget measures align with the needs of the business community. These initiatives are anticipated to stimulate economic development and attract substantial investment. Positive Economic Impact The FPCCI is optimistic that the government’s initiatives will result in: Increased industrial productivity Job creation across various sectors Overall benefits for the national economy

A World Bank delegation, led by Pakistan Country Director Bolorma Amgaabazar, visited the under-construction Tarbela Fifth Extension Hydropower Project. The team expressed satisfaction with the project’s pace and quality, highlighting its role as a pivotal energy initiative. Significance of the Tarbela Project The Tarbela Fifth Extension project is a vital component of Pakistan’s plan to increase its renewable energy capacity. The World Bank’s support emphasizes the project’s crucial impact on the national power supply. World Bank’s Involvement During their visit, World Bank officials observed multiple stages of the construction process and attended detailed briefings on the project’s progress. Their positive assessment signifies a sustained commitment to strengthening Pakistan’s energy infrastructure.

ISLAMABAD — Federal Minister for Finance and Revenue, Muhammad Aurangzeb, announced on Saturday that the Federal Budget 2026-27 focuses on export-led growth. This strategy aims to boost the country’s exports and secure sustainable economic development. Government’s Commitment to Industrial Expansion The finance minister highlighted the budget’s emphasis on creating a competitive environment that promotes industrial expansion. By concentrating on these areas, the government seeks to enhance economic competitiveness and facilitate substantial industrial growth. Long-Term Economic Goals The announcement reflects an ongoing commitment to policies that support economic vitality through increased export activities. These efforts are in line with Pakistan’s broader objectives of achieving long-term growth and prosperity.

LAHORE — Chief Traffic Officer (CTO) Lahore, Syed Abdul Raheem Shirazi, paid a visit to the Sundas Foundation on Saturday. During this visit, he met children battling thalassemia and personally donated blood to aid the cause. Shirazi emphasized the vital role blood donation plays in saving lives and bringing joy to families. Support from City Officials Shirazi received a warm welcome from Sundas Foundation’s Founder President Muhammad Yaseen Khan, Director Khalid Abbas Dar, Director Finance Ali Rauf, and social leader Abdullah Malik. Several traffic wardens also joined him in donating blood to help thalassemia patients. Importance of Voluntary Blood Donations Shirazi stressed the importance of regular blood donations to save children with thalassemia. He encouraged healthy individuals to voluntarily engage in this life-saving activity. Shirazi praised the Sundas Foundation as a beacon of humanitarian service and urged citizens to participate in ongoing blood donation initiatives. Lahore Traffic Police’s Humanitarian Commitment The CTO highlighted that thalassemia patients rely on regular blood donations. Each donation can significantly impact lives, saving a child and uplifting a family. He reiterated the societal duty to join this humanitarian effort, affirming the commitment of Lahore Traffic Police to social and humanitarian causes.

SARGODHA — The Faisalabad Electric Supply Company (FESCO) has intensified its efforts against electricity theft, arresting 14 individuals in Sargodha on Saturday. Coordinated Task Force Operation Task force teams conducted coordinated raids in various districts to tackle unauthorized power usage. These strategic operations led to multiple arrests. List of Arrested Individuals The following suspects have been apprehended: Tanveer Khan Hakeem Khan Saqlain Bakht Khan Abdul Saboor Waleed Khan Hafizullah Farzand Arain Tariq Jameel Additional individuals were detained as the operation proceeded. Legal Measures The local police have filed cases against those arrested, bolstering efforts to stop power pilferage in the area. These measures form part of a larger initiative to enhance compliance and ensure the integrity of the electricity supply.

BAHAWALPUR — Sardar Ramesh Sing Arora, Punjab Minister for Human Rights and Minorities Affairs, expressed high praise for the Pakistan armed forces, noting the significant support from minority communities in safeguarding national security. These statements were delivered at a ceremony at Islamia University Bahawalpur. National Unity and Youth Empowerment Minister Arora applauded the armed forces for their dedication to the nation, emphasizing the country’s unity in support of them. He encouraged the youth to contribute to Pakistan’s global image through education and devotion. By reinforcing the Punjab government’s commitment, he highlighted the importance of backing citizens from diverse religious backgrounds. Support for Minority Communities Arora outlined initiatives to assist minority communities, particularly through providing financial aid during religious festivals to families in need. He stressed the crucial role minorities play in Pakistan’s societal makeup and reiterated the government’s dedication to their social and economic growth. Promoting Tolerance and Cooperation Addressing the necessity of tolerance and interfaith harmony, Minister Arora stated that Pakistan’s sustainable progress hinges on cooperation among all citizens. He urged the youth to engage with modern education and technology, highlighting government programs aimed at empowering them to tackle future challenges.

ISLAMABAD — Atif Ikram Sheikh emphasized the importance of media and business collaboration for driving economic growth. This was highlighted during the inaugural meeting of the FPCCI Central Standing Committee on Media & Broadcasting. Meeting Details and Key Participants The meeting took place at the FPCCI Capital Office, led by Faisal Zahid Malik, Chairman and CEO of Pakistan Observer. The primary focus was on strengthening media-business partnerships to propel economic progress. Challenges in the Media Industry Crisis management within the media industry was a central issue discussed. Participants tackled several challenges, including: Advertisement difficulties Delayed financial recoveries Strategies for sustainable sector growth Benefits of Strengthened Partnerships Sheikh pointed out the mutual advantages of a strong media-business alliance. He stressed its critical role in significantly boosting economic development. Looking ahead, the committee intends to further these partnerships to benefit both sectors.

ISLAMABAD — The price of 24 karat gold in the local market has surged by Rs 4,370 per tola. The current price stands at Rs 444,336, up from Rs 439,966 on the previous trading day. This increase is reported by the All Pakistan Sarafa Gems and Jewellers Association. Impact of Market Conditions Gold prices have risen due to fluctuating market conditions and global trends in the trade of precious metals. These changes significantly influence purchasing decisions for local jewelers and investors. Frequent Rate Updates The All Pakistan Sarafa Gems and Jewellers Association updates rates regularly. These updates account for variations in international gold prices and shifts in currency exchange rates, ensuring they reflect current market conditions.

Positive Reception of Federal Budget FAISALABAD — The Pakistan Textile Exporters Association (PTEA) has praised the federal budget, calling it balanced and growth-oriented. They assert that it aligns well with the nation’s economic realities. The association is optimistic that the budget’s pro-industry initiatives and supportive policy measures will stimulate economic activity. These measures are vital for fostering the textile industry’s growth. Impact on Industrial Growth PTEA officials express confidence that the budget has the potential to significantly boost industrial growth. It aims to support sustainable economic development nationwide. By bolstering economic prospects, the budget is seen as a crucial step forward for strengthening the Pakistani economy. Textile Sector’s Outlook The association highlights the textile sector’s positive outlook on the government’s fiscal approach. This outlook prevails despite ongoing economic challenges in the country.

ISLAMABAD — Finance Minister Muhammad Aurangzeb, along with Information Minister Attaullah Tarar and Minister of State for Finance Bilal Azhar Kayani, provided a detailed overview of the Federal Budget 2026–27 in a press briefing. The briefing took place at P-Block, Pakistan Secretariat. Key Budget Priorities Finance Minister Aurangzeb emphasized the government’s main fiscal strategies and priorities for the upcoming fiscal year. These include: Facilitating comprehensive economic growth Increasing levels of public investment Ensuring long-term fiscal sustainability Government Commitment Information Minister Attaullah Tarar highlighted the government’s commitment to transparency and accountability as guiding principles in the implementation of the budget. Initiatives for Investment and Welfare Minister Kayani detailed targeted initiatives aimed at stimulating investment in key sectors. He also noted efforts to bolster crucial social welfare programs.