Samsung is gearing up to redefine the foldable smartphone market with a game-changing lineup slated for 2025. With the unveiling of its highly anticipated tri-fold smartphone, Samsung aims to not only challenge Huawei’s Mate XT but also solidify its position as a leader in foldable innovation. The South Korean tech giant plans to launch four…
Politics
The National Electric Power Regulatory Authority (NEPRA) has introduced a groundbreaking proposal to offer electricity consumers the option to pay their bills in multiple installments throughout the year. This move seeks to alleviate financial pressure on consumers while ensuring the financial stability of distribution companies (DISCOs). Proposed Amendments for Consumer Relief As part of…
WASHINGTON, Jan 20 (Reuters): On his first day back in office for a second term, U.S. President Donald Trump revoked Joe Biden’s October 2023 executive order that established safety standards for artificial intelligence (AI). The now-revoked order had aimed to mitigate the risks AI poses to consumers, workers, and national security while fostering responsible development…
In a significant move to enhance governance and maintain law and order, the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP) government has announced the establishment of a specialized force at the district level. This force, modeled on the police, aims to handle crime investigations, transport criminals to court, and perform other critical duties in alignment with government directives.…
The 2025 Annual Meeting of the World Economic Forum (WEF) is taking place from January 20–24 in Davos, Switzerland. Under the theme "Collaboration for the Intelligent Age," this year’s event gathers some of the most influential leaders across the globe to discuss pressing global issues, from geo-economic uncertainty and climate change to advancements in artificial…
The Islamabad Excise and Taxation Department has announced an extension for token tax payments, offering vehicle owners an additional 15 days to meet their obligations. The new deadline, January 31, 2025, aims to accommodate the increasing rush at tax counters and streamline the process for citizens. Strict Measures for Defaulters The department has introduced…
Pakistan is actively engaging with global partners to foster economic growth, strengthen bilateral relations, and explore innovative solutions for sustainable development. From deepening ties with Japan and Hong Kong to focusing on social impact financing, Pakistan is charting a path toward economic resilience and inclusion. Collaboration with Japan: A Strengthened Partnership Federal Minister for…
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif’s Strategic Vision for IT Sector Growth Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif has laid out an ambitious roadmap to transform Pakistan’s Information Technology (IT) sector into a global powerhouse, targeting a remarkable $25 billion in IT exports over the next five years. Chairing a series of high-level meetings, the premier emphasized the…
Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif has outlined a transformative vision for Pakistan's customs and revenue systems. At the heart of this vision is the faceless customs assessment system, which aims to revolutionize the nation's import processes by minimizing human intervention and maximizing efficiency. Faceless Customs System: A Landmark Innovation The faceless customs system, initially…
Islamabad, January 12, 2025 – The Federal Board of Revenue (FBR) has initiated a major procurement of 1,010 Honda City 1.2L CVT vehicles valued at approximately Rs. 6 billion. This move aims to bolster tax enforcement and streamline operations by enhancing mobility and operational efficiency for its officers. Procurement Details and Financial Plan FBR…
Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif Unveils Comprehensive Development Plans Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif has announced a series of groundbreaking initiatives aimed at empowering citizens, boosting the economy, and ensuring sustainable development across the province. From affordable housing to agricultural reforms and small business support, her administration is focused on creating a better…
The Pakistani government has finally acknowledged the critical challenges facing Gwadar Port, a project of immense strategic importance under the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC). Despite its potential to revolutionize regional trade and bolster the national economy, Gwadar Port has long been mired in operational inefficiencies, infrastructure shortcomings, and socio-political hurdles. Understanding Gwadar Port's Strategic…
The Federal Budget 2025-26 is set to be unveiled in the first week of June 2025, as per the latest Budget Call Circular issued by the Finance Division. This critical fiscal document will outline the government's economic strategy, spending priorities, and revenue targets for the next financial year, paving the way for the country's financial…
Pakistan is trailing behind its regional neighbors in critical areas like exports, education, and healthcare spending, according to a report by ProPakistani. While neighboring countries like India, Bangladesh, and Sri Lanka show significant progress, Pakistan’s performance has been underwhelming, raising concerns about the country’s economic and social priorities. Decline in Export-to-GDP Ratio Over the…
In a significant relief for electricity consumers, the National Electric Power Regulatory Authority (NEPRA) has announced a reduction in power tariffs under the monthly Fuel Cost Adjustment (FCA) mechanism. Consumers of all Power Distribution Companies (DISCOs) and K-Electric will benefit from a decrease of 75 paisa and 49 paisa per unit, respectively, for the months…
Navigating Legal Hurdles: ATIR Rulings on Scanned Signatures Overseas Pakistanis are facing significant challenges in contesting Federal Board of Revenue (FBR) decisions, as highlighted by recent rulings from the Appellate Tribunal Inland Revenue (ATIR) Islamabad. A two-member Division Bench-I of the ATIR recently dismissed an appeal filed by a non-resident taxpayer due to procedural issues…
The Ministry of IT and Telecom’s ambitious E-Office system, designed to transition federal ministries and divisions to a paperless workflow, is reportedly doing more harm than good. Developed by the National Information Technology Board (NITB), the system is riddled with technical flaws that disrupt daily operations and force civil servants to rely on traditional paperwork.…
D.M. Textile Mills Limited (PSX: DMTX) has announced a strategic decision to shift its principal line of business from textiles to real estate. The company’s Board of Directors and shareholders have approved this transition, with the process now under review by the Securities & Exchange Commission of Pakistan (SECP) and the Company Registration Office (CRO)…
The federal government has officially shelved plans to privatize the Pakistan National Shipping Corporation (PNSC) through a public offering. This decision stems from PNSC's strategic importance to national security, economic stability, and its critical role in the maritime sector. Established under the Pakistan National Shipping Corporation Ordinance 1979, PNSC is a key state-owned enterprise…
ISLAMABAD: The Pakistan Bureau of Statistics (PBS) has launched the much-anticipated 7th Agricultural Census 2024, a groundbreaking initiative designed to leverage advanced digital tools for data collection. The census aims to address critical issues of food security, sustainable farming, and agricultural resilience by providing evidence-based insights for policy formulation. Key Highlights: Nationwide Operations The…