Business

Business – NEN Agency

Welcome to the Business section of NEN Agency, where we decode Pakistan’s economy, spotlight entrepreneurs, and track global market trends. From corporate boardrooms to small-town startups, our coverage connects you to the decisions, deals, and developments shaping financial life in Pakistan and beyond.

Inside This Category

  • Pakistan Economy: Government policies, taxation, inflation, trade, and growth indicators.

  • Startups & SMEs: Success stories of Pakistani entrepreneurs and innovative ventures.

  • Stock Market & Finance: Updates on PSX, forex, banking, and financial literacy.

  • Global Business: Trends from international markets, MNC activities, and economic events.

Why Our Business Coverage Stands Out
We don’t just report the numbers — we explain what they mean for you. Our team digs deeper into the “why” behind every headline, giving readers the context they need to make informed decisions.

Business, Economy

PKR Gains Marginally as SBP Monitors Forex Market Trends

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Karachi, August 28, 2025, 04:17 PM PKT – The Pakistani Rupee (PKR) gained 0.2% against major currencies today. The State Bank of Pakistan (SBP) is intensifying its monitoring of forex market trends to maintain currency stability. Forex Market Stability and Exchange Rates The Financial Markets Association’s bulletin on August 28 highlighted competitive trading rates. Pakistan’s forex market displayed reduced volatility in key currency pairs, including: USD at PKR 283.61 GBP at PKR 381.69 EUR at PKR 329.68 JPY at PKR 1.9150 In the open market, the USD traded at PKR 283.80, aligning closely with interbank rates. This indicates improved price stability and reduced speculative pressure. SBP Efforts to Limit Speculation Zafar Paracha, an official from the SBP, stated, “We’re closely tracking market dynamics to ensure stability.” The PKR’s slight appreciation is linked to the SBP’s efforts to curb speculative trading. Exporters report smoother transactions, boosting trade confidence. Enhanced forex stability allows businesses to plan international transactions more reliably, lowering currency risks for both importers and exporters. Digital Forex Monitoring Platform Launch The SBP plans to launch a dedicated forex monitoring app on October 1, 2025. This platform aims to increase transparency for businesses and individuals involved in foreign exchange and remittances. In July 2025, Pakistan’s remittances reached $2.8 billion, underscoring the importance of transparent forex operations for the national economy. This substantial inflow supports the country’s foreign exchange reserves and strengthens the rupee against major currencies. Positive Reception by the Business Community The Karachi Chamber of Commerce has praised the current forex market stability. Representatives urge policymakers to maintain economic policies that bolster currency stability and promote trade growth. A currency trader noted, “This strengthens our economy,” reflecting positive market sentiment. Market participants anticipate continued stability with the current monitoring measures in place.

Business

Sargodha Flood Relief Intensifies as Chenab Flood Wave Peaks

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Sargodha, August 28, 2025, 11:13 AM PKT – The Sargodha district administration has intensified flood relief efforts as a massive wave of 1 million cusecs surges through the River Chenab at Kot Momin. At Qadirabad, a peak flow of 1,017,000 cusecs was recorded, prompting widespread emergency responses. Mass Evacuations and Emergency Aid Due to rising floodwaters, over 3,500 residents and 2,000 livestock have been evacuated. Deputy Commissioner Muhammad Wasim assured, “We’re ensuring no loss of life with comprehensive relief measures.” Relief camps provide essential food and medical aid to displaced families. The Pakistan Army supports relief operations across 12 flood-affected villages near Kot Momin, conducting rescue and aid efforts continuously. Flood Monitoring and Forecasts Officials anticipate that floodwaters will recede by August 30, but vigilance is maintained. The Provincial Disaster Management Authority (PDMA) reported medium flood levels at Marala and Khanki, urging locals to heed safety alerts and evacuation orders. Region-wide monitoring stations track water flow patterns to improve safety measures. Economic Impact on Agriculture Local farmers face significant crop losses as floods severely disrupt the agricultural sector, submerging cultivated lands. Authorities plan a comprehensive damage assessment in September to evaluate the flood’s economic impact on agriculture and determine compensation needs. “We’re committed to recovery,” stated DPO Sohaib Ashraf, emphasizing ongoing community support. The economic impact of the flood extends beyond immediate aid, posing long-term challenges to agricultural revenue. Stay updated at nenagency.

Business

SBP Adjusts Forex Policies to Stabilize PKR Amid Rate Fluctuations

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Karachi, August 28, 2025, 11:04 AM PKT – The State Bank of Pakistan (SBP) has launched new foreign exchange policies to stabilize the Pakistani Rupee (PKR). These measures aim to manage currency market fluctuations and enhance investor confidence by bridging the gap between official and open market rates. Forex Policies for Market Stability The central bank announced these measures following a Financial Markets Association bulletin on August 27, providing exchange rates for the September 29 settlement. Key rates include: USD at PKR 281.80 GBP at PKR 378.91 EUR at PKR 326.86 JPY at PKR 1.9060 SBP Governor Jameel Ahmad noted, “These measures will enhance market confidence and curb volatility.” Focused Interventions for Fluctuation Control The revised forex policies include several targeted interventions to manage currency fluctuations: Stricter controls on speculative trading activities Increased reserve requirements for importers Daily monitoring of exchange rates Implementation of digital tools for real-time rate tracking by September 15 These interventions represent the central bank’s most comprehensive forex measures in recent months. PKR Market Performance Insights Policy adjustments come after a 0.4% depreciation of the PKR against the USD since August 20. The State Bank seeks to align interbank rates with open market trends, prompted by the USD reaching PKR 282.50 in the open market. Currency volatility remains a challenge for importers and exporters involved in international trade. Business Community Support The Karachi Chamber of Commerce supports these initiatives. Representatives call for additional measures to aid exporters in maintaining Pakistan’s trade competitiveness. “Stability is key for trade,” emphasized a chamber spokesperson, underscoring the need for predictable exchange rates for effective business planning. Exporters stress the importance of consistent forex policies to compete internationally. Stay updated at nenagency.com.

Business

Pakistan, Bangladesh Plan Joint Trade Commission to Boost Economic Ties

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Islamabad, August 24, 2025, 11:15 AM PKT – Pakistan and Bangladesh plan to establish a Joint Trade Commission, marking a significant step towards enhancing economic cooperation. This initiative follows high-level meetings in Dhaka, aimed at strengthening bilateral relations between these South Asian nations. Ambitious Bilateral Trade Targets The commission aims to set ambitious trade targets by focusing on coordinated policies and strategic partnerships. Pakistan’s Commerce Minister Jam Kamal Khan and Bangladesh’s Adviser for Commerce, Sk. Bashir Uddin, highlighted the importance of mutual economic growth and increased cross-border trade during their discussions. Key Sectors for Economic Growth According to Khan, the commission will boost bilateral trade, particularly in the following key sectors: Agriculture and food products Textiles and garments Energy and renewable resources These sectors present significant opportunities to expand trade relationships and explore new market potentials. Reactivating the Joint Economic Commission The discussions also underscored the importance of reactivating the Joint Economic Commission (JEC), which has been inactive since 2005. Revitalizing the JEC is crucial for streamlining investment and trade mechanisms, improving policy coordination, and resolving regulatory barriers obstructing commerce. Infrastructure and Tariff Reforms Both nations are committed to reducing tariffs and enhancing logistics infrastructure to ensure smoother cross-border trade and foster economic growth. Improving infrastructure will tackle longstanding challenges, while tariff cuts are expected to make products more competitive, enhancing export opportunities. Stay updated at nenagency.

Business

MDA Accelerates Construction of 22 Modern Bus Shelters in Multan

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Multan, August 23, 2025, 08:35 PM PKT — The Multan Development Authority (MDA) is rapidly advancing the construction of 22 modern bus shelters throughout the city. With five shelters already operational, this marks a significant step forward in infrastructure development. Infrastructure Investment in Public Transport This Rs. 110 million project aims to enhance public transport by offering comfortable waiting areas for citizens. An MDA spokesperson emphasized that the designs reflect Multan’s cultural heritage while accommodating its climatic conditions. Costing Rs. 5 million per shelter, this initiative represents a crucial move in urban development. Each shelter is designed to be both climate adaptive and culturally significant. Public-Private Partnership for Development Director MDA, Rana Waseem, highlighted the rapid progress of the project, which leverages a public-private partnership model to ensure timely completion. The construction details are as follows: Nine shelters constructed by the Multan Development Authority. Ten shelters developed by private sector companies. Five shelters currently operational. The remaining shelters nearing completion. Enhancing Urban Mobility with Modern Shelters Aligned with future electric bus routes in Multan, this project aims to ensure organized and safe transportation. Commissioner Aamir Karim Khan stated that these shelters will transform urban mobility, fostering sustainable urban growth. Economic Boost for Multan through Infrastructure The initiative upgrades public infrastructure in Punjab’s fifth-largest city, improving daily commutes for thousands. It enhances urban connectivity and stimulates local economic activity, solidifying Multan’s status as an emerging commercial hub.

Business

Envoys of Five Countries Present Credentials to President Zardari

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Islamabad, August 22, 2025 – President Asif Ali Zardari received diplomatic credentials from envoys of five countries at Aiwan-e-Sadr. This ceremony is crucial for strengthening Pakistan’s bilateral trade partnerships with Asia and Europe. Envoys Present Diplomatic Credentials Envoys from five nations participated, including the High Commissioner-designate of Sri Lanka, Rear-Admiral H.L.A. Don Fred Senevirante. The Ambassadors-designate joining him were: Chandra Warsenanto of Indonesia Kylychbek Sultan of Kyrgyzstan Wolfgang Oliver Kutschera of Austria Ina Ruth Luise Lepel of Germany The Armed Forces provided a guard of honour, underscoring the ceremonial formality. Fostering Trade and Investment President Zardari congratulated the envoys on their appointments, showing optimism about enhanced bilateral ties. He focused on expanding economic cooperation with particular attention to: Bilateral trade and investment Economic partnerships and business collaboration Cultural exchange programs Strengthening Economic Ties with Asia and Europe President Zardari emphasized the critical role of economic cooperation with Sri Lanka, Indonesia, Kyrgyzstan, Austria, and Germany. He noted how these relationships could yield mutual benefits across various fields. The diplomatic engagements showcase Pakistan’s commitment to increasing its economic footprint. These partnerships aim to foster new growth avenues and investment opportunities across multiple sectors. This ceremony highlights Pakistan’s strategic goal to strengthen international trade relationships and enhance business collaboration with key partners in Asia and Europe, vital for economic development.

Business

�Uzbekistan and Oman Strengthen Bilateral Cooperation

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Muscat, August 22, 2025 – A high-level Uzbek delegation, led by Minister of Investment, Industry, and Trade Laziz Kudratov, visited Oman to advance economic ties. The visit concentrated on exploring trade opportunities and bolstering cooperation between the two nations. Key Sectors in Economic Cooperation The Uzbek delegation engaged in extensive meetings with Omani officials, including Minister of Commerce, Industry, and Investment Promotion Qais Al Yousef. Their discussions focused on joint projects that would benefit both countries across various strategic sectors. Priority Areas for Trade Cooperation Oil and gas development Renewable energy initiatives Agricultural technology Textile manufacturing Mining and mineral resources Investment Climate and Foreign Capital Uzbekistan presented its favorable investment climate, highlighting comprehensive investor protections and competitive tax benefits designed to attract foreign capital. The country’s developed industrial zones offer significant advantages for international businesses. At an investment exhibition, Omani corporations such as Suhail Bahwan Group and Asyad Group showed interest in collaborations to expand market presence and enhance trade relations. Agreements to Boost Trade The two nations reached agreements on economic initiatives within key sectors, establishing a framework for long-term relations and trade diversification. This partnership is expected to substantially boost bilateral trade, create new market opportunities, and benefit businesses in both countries. Omani media extensively covered the increasing importance of Uzbekistan-Oman relations, marking a new chapter in their trade cooperation.

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