Business

During the second week of June, Pakistan’s total liquid foreign reserves rose to $22.74 billion. This data was provided by the Associated Press of Pakistan. State Bank of Pakistan’s Role The State Bank of Pakistan reported a notable increase in its reserves, now at $17.22 billion. This marks a positive shift in Pakistan’s foreign exchange position. Efforts for Economic Stabilization This growth occurs as Pakistan continues efforts to stabilize its economy and bolster foreign currency reserves. The government’s strategies focus on strengthening economic infrastructure.

ISLAMABAD — Federal Minister for Planning, Development and Special Initiatives, Professor Ahsan Iqbal, has called for enhanced market monitoring and improved supply chain mechanisms. This decision emerged during a National Price Monitoring Committee (NPMC) meeting held on Thursday, where the minister reviewed the current price situation of essential commodities. Price Stabilization and Consumer Protection During the meeting, Minister Ahsan Iqbal emphasized the importance of price stabilization to protect consumer interests amid fluctuating market conditions. Senior officials were instructed to devise effective strategies for closely monitoring market dynamics. Securing a Consistent Supply of Goods The discussions were focused on ensuring a steady supply of essential goods and preventing unexpected price hikes. Consistent supply chains are key to maintaining economic stability. Improving Transparency and Accountability The NPMC is investigating several initiatives aimed at increasing transparency and accountability within the supply chain. These measures are expected to directly address consumer concerns by making the market more reliable and predictable.

ISLAMABAD — Federal Minister for Board of Investment, Qaiser Ahmed Sheikh, met with Reza Amiri Moghadam, the Iranian Ambassador to Pakistan. The meeting focused on enhancing bilateral investment opportunities and strengthening economic ties between Pakistan and Iran. Exploring Collaboration Opportunities The officials identified several potential collaboration areas. They stressed the significance of increasing mutual investments to benefit both nations’ economic landscapes. Sheikh emphasized Pakistan’s favorable investment environment and reiterated the government’s commitment to facilitating Iranian investors. Strengthening Economic Cooperation Ambassador Moghadam expressed optimism about expanding economic cooperation. He welcomed initiatives to foster greater connectivity between the business sectors of Pakistan and Iran. Strategic Importance of Bilateral Relations The meeting highlighted the strategic importance of enhancing bilateral relations amidst evolving regional dynamics. Both parties recognized the potential for economic growth through strengthened partnerships.

Pakistan’s Ambassador to China, Khalil Hashmi, recently hosted a high-level Chinese delegation in Beijing. This delegation comprised representatives from 40 leading firms in pharmaceuticals, biotechnology, and healthcare. The meeting took place at the Embassy of Pakistan. Key Role of China Overseas Development Association The China Overseas Development Association led the delegation. Their primary goal was to provide an in-depth briefing on investment opportunities in Pakistan. The focus was on the rapidly expanding sectors of the nation’s economy. Upcoming Karachi Conference Highlights This meeting served as a prelude to the 6th Pakistan-China Business-to-Business (B2B) Investment Conference. Scheduled for Karachi, the conference aims to strengthen economic ties between Pakistan and China. It will explore potential joint ventures in key sectors.

ISLAMABAD — Federal Minister for Planning, Development and Special Initiatives Ahsan Iqbal led a session of the National Price Monitoring Committee (NPMC) on Monday. The primary focus was on reviewing current price trends and assessing measures for effective inflation control. Strategies for Price Stabilization The meeting gathered key stakeholders to discuss strategies aimed at stabilizing prices. Ensuring the availability of essential goods nationwide was a priority. Participants reviewed relevant data extensively. Various policy measures were considered to tackle the economic challenges arising from rising cost pressures. This collaborative approach is crucial for maintaining market stability. Role of the National Price Monitoring Committee The NPMC serves as a crucial forum for government interaction with various sectors. Its goal is to maintain the affordability and accessibility of products for the general public. The outcomes of this meeting are intended to guide future planning and development initiatives, aiming to foster economic growth. Focus on Economic Stability Ahsan Iqbal highlighted the importance of collective efforts to manage price fluctuations and support economic stability. He emphasized the need for all sectors to contribute towards effective solutions. These efforts are vital to combating inflation and ensuring a steady economic landscape, benefiting both consumers and the broader economy.

ISLAMABAD — Federal Minister for Planning, Development and Special Initiatives Ahsan Iqbal chaired a crucial meeting of the National Price Monitoring Committee (NPMC). The session focused on evaluating inflation trends across the country and identifying strategies to stabilize the prices of essential commodities. Reviewing Current Price Situation The committee undertook a detailed review of the current price scenario. Discussions revolved around various strategies aimed at alleviating the financial burden on citizens. There was a strong emphasis on prompt market interventions to manage price fluctuations effectively. Significance of Timely Interventions Timely interventions were deemed crucial for controlling price variability. The meeting highlighted the importance of effective market monitoring and strategic actions to ensure price stability. Comprehensive Planning and Policy Execution Attendees emphasized the necessity for comprehensive planning and efficient policy execution. The primary aim is to shield the population, especially vulnerable segments, from inflationary pressures. Stakeholders were urged to collaborate efficiently to achieve these objectives.

ISLAMABAD — Pakistan’s exports during the first eleven months of fiscal year 2025-26 totaled Rs 7,827,925 million, according to the Pakistan Bureau of Statistics (PBS). This represents a decline of 5.08% compared to Rs 8,246,790 million recorded in the same period last year. Monthly Export Performance In May 2026, year-on-year export growth was marginal at 0.39%, with exports reaching Rs 749,452 million. This is a slight increase from Rs 752,392 million in May 2025. However, on a month-to-month basis, exports rose significantly by 8.83%, up from Rs 688,656 million in April 2026. Key Export Commodities May 2026’s main export commodities included: Knitwear: Rs 124,251 million Readymade garments: Rs 115,407 million Bed wear: Rs 79,514 million Additionally, exports of cotton cloth amounted to Rs 40,641 million, various rice products totaled Rs 31,511 million, and petroleum products reached Rs 14,955 million. Import Trends Between July and May, imports rose by 7.04% to Rs 17,668,819 million, compared to Rs 16,506,992 million the previous year. In May 2026, imports were recorded at Rs 1,536,547 million, marking an 18.30% decrease from April 2026 and a 3.66% decline from May 2025. Significant imports included petroleum crude, valued at Rs 195,538 million, and petroleum products, totaling Rs 141,630 million.

ISLAMABAD — The Pakistan Stock Exchange (PSX) showcased strong performance on Thursday. The benchmark KSE-100 Index climbed 887.19 points, a 0.49% increase, concluding at 181,398.22 points. This rise is up from the previous close of 180,511.02 points. Trading Volume and Investor Interest The trading session saw a considerable volume, with 1.242 billion shares traded in the ready market. This indicates strong investor interest and robust participation. Factors Driving the Bullish Trend The continued bullish trend highlights increased market confidence. Analysts link the positive performance to various factors: Investor optimism Favorable economic indicators Increased interest in the equity market Implications for the Equity Market The PSX’s significant gains highlight rising interest in the equity market, evidenced by boosted trading activity.

ISLAMABAD — The Pakistani rupee exhibited a slight appreciation against the US dollar, gaining one paisa in interbank trading on Thursday. The currency concluded the day at Rs278.26, slightly up from the previous closing rate of Rs278.27, as reported by the Forex Association of Pakistan. Open Market Exchange Rates In the open market, the buying and selling rates for the US dollar experienced minor fluctuations. Although the latest report did not specify exact figures, these shifts underscore the dynamic nature of currency exchange rates. Factors Influencing Exchange Rate Fluctuations The slight appreciation in the rupee’s value occurs amid constant fluctuations in the foreign exchange market. This volatility is frequently driven by various economic conditions and adjustments in financial policies.

ISLAMABAD — The Chairman of the Securities and Exchange Commission of Pakistan (SECP), Dr. Kabir Ahmed Sidhu, has urged the Pakistan Mercantile Exchange (PMEX) to speed up the creation of physically deliverable agricultural futures contracts. These contracts are designed to enhance the agricultural sector by improving pricing mechanisms and risk management. Integration with EWR System Dr. Sidhu highlighted the importance of integrating these agricultural futures contracts with an Electronic Warehouse Receipt (EWR) system. This system provides real-time data crucial for ensuring transparency and efficiency in trading. The integration is expected to benefit both producers and consumers within the agricultural market. SECP’s Modernization Efforts This initiative is part of the SECP’s ongoing efforts to modernize Pakistan’s capital market infrastructure. By advancing these efforts, the SECP aims to offer innovative financial solutions to key sectors of the economy, thereby improving overall sector performance.