Author: Khalil Ahmed

Pakistan’s first gas field was found in 1952 in Balochistan and the commercial exploitation of the field began in 1955. Sui gas field accounts for a quarter of Pakistan’s gas production. The exploration activities went on and gas was discovered in all four provinces of our dear homeland. Whenever discussion breaks out anywhere in any circle, it is said that Pakistan is blessed with abundant gas reserves, however, no serious efforts have been made so far for exploration. Not to speak of Balochistan, Sindh and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KPK) are the provinces where abundant reserves are available. Let me share my…

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Additional gas exploration activities will give Pakistan edge over global drilling slump Interview with Mr Abbas Bilgrami, — energy sector expert PAGE: Tell me something about yourself and your organization, please: Abbas Bilgrami: I am an advisor to the energy and energy infrastructure industry. I am developing a number of projects in Malaysia, Pakistan and South Africa. My company Juniper Advisors focuses on the energy, renewables and related infrastructure. I have also been lucky to have been involved in building energy infrastructure in Pakistan and regionally. I have also been privileged to have advised the Government of Pakistan as part of the…

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Interview with Dr. Ayub Mehar – an economist [box type=”shadow” align=”” class=”” width=””]Profile: Dr. Ayub Mehar is currently serving as Professor at Iqra University and is also associated as economist with the Gerson Lehrman Group, Austin USA (Political Upheaval and Global Competitiveness project for World Economic Forum). Before this, he has been working at various responsible positions in industry and academic institutions in Pakistan. He has served Federation of Pakistan Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FPCCI) as Director General (R&D) for 6 years and Economic Advisor in Economic Cooperation (ECO) Chamber of Commerce and Industry. He is alumni member of…

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Exclusive interview with Mr Naeem Zamindar – Chairman, Board of Investment PAGE: Tell me something about yourself and BoI (Board of Investment) please: Naeem Zamindar: I am a results-driven business leader with experience in venture capital, building businesses in mobile and fixed line communications, cable TV and mobile financial services, renewable energy and education. Previously, I have been the CEO of Acumen Fund and Wateen Telecom, founding team member and CSO of the largest private sector company in Pakistan — Jazz, and a Senior Investment Manager at Intel Capital in Silicon Valley. The Prime Minister has a vision for a prosperous…

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Interview with Mr Aamir Ijaz Khan – member ICMA-Pakistan [box type=”shadow” align=”” class=”” width=””]Profile: Professional Qualifications: Fellow Cost & Management Accountant (FCMA) from Institute of Cost & Management Accountants of Pakistan SAP FICO Certified Consultant from Abacus Consulting, Lahore partnering with SAP Malaysia Certified Management Accountant (in progress) from Institute of Management Accountants, USA Professional Experience: Since April 2012, working with Innovative (Pvt) Limited, only Gold Partner in Pakistan of APC-MGE (a Schneider group company) largest UPS manufacturer in the world and only Gold Label Service Partner of Diebold Nixdorf a global leader in ATMs; as Head of Quality Assurance…

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Interview with Mr Anis Majeed – Chairman, Bombi’s Group, Karachi Wholesales Grocers Association (KWGA) [box type=”shadow” align=”” class=”” width=””]Profile: Mr Anis Majeed is Chairman of Bombi’s Group and Karachi Wholesales Grocers Association (KWGA). He has been active managing committee member of Karachi Chamber of Commerce and Industry (KCCI). He is also General Body member of the Federation of Pakistan Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FPCCI) on behalf of Rice Exporters Association of Pakistan (REAP). He has been in pulses (commodities) business for more than 35 years. Anis Majeed and his brothers took over business from their father who established pulses…

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Interview with Mr Muffasar Atta Malik – President, Karachi Chamber of Commerce & Industry PAGE: Tell me something about yourself please: Muffasar Atta Malik: I started my student life from an Army-run school in Sialkot and after graduating from Murray College, Sialkot got admitted in Nishtar Medical College, Multan in 1982 to fulfill the desire of my parents. But Allah SWT had some other role carved for me and in a surprise move I had to leave my professional studies and joined my family business in Karachi, as per my father’s wish. So I started my business career in 1982 at the…

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The claims of prosperity and progress made by the incumbent government belie the reality. Almost 50% of the total population of 208 million lives below the poverty line in Pakistan. And those considered bourgeois also face difficulty in meeting both ends meet these days. So where is that prosperity? What kinds of goggles are required to see, touch or at least feel that prosperity? A very big question, indeed!!! Let alone owning a house in Pakistan by the majority of the population, even the so-called bourgeois find it difficult to maintain the living standards being enjoyed by them for the…

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Banks should be more supportive for the masses and for corporate industry growth An exclusive interview with Mr. Barkatullah Lone – Chairman, GB International Economic Forum [box type=”shadow” align=”” class=”” width=””]Profile: Mr. Barkatullah Lone is Chairman of GB International Economic Forum and is associated with a FMCG Group as CFO in a GCC county. He is a Chartered Management Accountant and Chartered Certified Accountant from UK, Chartered Global Management Accountant from the USA, Gold Medalist Management Accountant and Public Finance Accountant from Pakistan plus he holds Master’s Degree in Economics and LLB from Karachi University. He has been associated with…

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Branding a product is a buzz-word across the globe which brings about value of the product. In the brand-conscious society like that of ours to some extent, branding fruits and vegetables may bring optimal benefits for the poor vegetable and fruit growers around the country. It would be great if someone at the helm of affairs may tell the value of brands to our otherwise uneducated agro-based community by apprising them of only a few brands such as Nike, Apple, Samsung etc. If these brands don’t go well with them, big basket may be referred which says buy farm fresh…

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Interview with Sheikh Nisar Ahmed Parcham Walay – Managing Director, VIP Flags [box type=”shadow” align=”” class=”” width=””]PROFILE: Sheikh Nisar Ahmed Parcham Walay was born in Delhi (India) in August 1947. He completed graduation in 1965 and migrated to Pakistan in 1967 with no money in hand. He started his business first by taking experience in a textile mill and after two years he was able to start his own factory initially with four power looms and then gradually increased number of looms and production in cloth industry.[/box] PAGE had an exclusive conversation with Sheikh Nisar Ahmed Parcham Walay about Pakistani brands,…

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It was way back in 2008 that the crude prices went as high as $147 per barrel shaking the entire non-oil producing world. And again, it was in the same year i.e. 2008 that the crude prices went as low as $32 per barrel causing unparalleled inventory losses. Pakistan was one of the worst affected countries in 2008 since almost one third of the imports are oil imports. However, 2014 brought very good news for Pakistan since the oil glut in the world proved blessing for the countries that are net importers of oil. When crude prices were as low…

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There lies the challenge for most social enterprises and a question that has been asked by many and successfully executed by a few. In a rapidly changing environment and the growing need for expansion, the urge to scale opportunities and unlock human potential is at the forefront in the mind of any social entrepreneur. Put simply, the question now is “How can we get 100x the impact with only a 2x change in the size of the organization?” The idea of scaling impact is to be able to deploy a limited amount of resources and magnify the area of effect…

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Patients with heart disease may get treatment free of cost with superior care in Pakistan. One under-treatment patient, at National Institute of Cardiovascular Diseases (NICVD) Larkana, belonging to Shahdadkot revealed to PAKISTAN & GULF ECONOMIST (PAGE) that she was brought by her family members in emergency at 4am (in the morning). Once they reached, she was admitted and given proper treatment by the doctors. According to her, it is unprecedented that heart patients are being treated with great care and professionalism without any charges and without any source for the treatment. Even the medicine during the treatment is provided by…

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Providing skills to downtrodden under CSR remain insufficient Leap forward measures must be taken to improve vocational training for sustainable development Interview with Muhammad Khalid – an analyst [box type=”shadow” align=”” class=”” width=””]Profile: Muhammad Khalid is a retired Army officer. He served Pakistan Army for about 27 years. After retirement, he did a few jobs including an assignment in a multinational company in the Middle East. Recently, he has completed Masters in Philosophy in Peace and Conflict Studies from NDU, Islamabad as a regular student. His thesis of research is regarding Internal Security Policy of Pakistan 2014-2018.[/box] PAGE had an…

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Interview with Syed Muslim Hasany – Director, Green Peak International [box type=”shadow” align=”” class=”” width=””]Profile: Syed Muslim Hasany is currently working as Director Financial Advisory and Business Development with Green Peak International, a Consultancy firm in Karachi. He is a mid-aged professional accountant, member of Institute of Chartered Accountants of Pakistan since 1993 and Certified Public Accountant from US since 2002. He has been working mostly in the area of Corporate Governance, including Audits and Compliance. During his career, he got opportunities to work in four different countries including Saudi Arabia, Canada, Oman and Pakistan. As his career demands, he…

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Interview with Mr Farooq Dadi — Revenue Analyst [box type=”shadow” align=”” class=”” width=””]Profile: Mr Farooq Dadi is a revenue analyst. He did Masters in International Relations from Karachi University in 1976-77. He is a Rotarian for last 20 years and has been serving the community projects to serve the community in terms of different projects i.e. Water and Sanitation, Health, Education and Eradication of Polio etc.[/box] PAGE: How would you comment on the human capital of Pakistan? FAROOQ DADI: We have hardly invested on our human capital. We need to build universities (mainly engineering and agricultural) because this will eventually lead…

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Must constitute boards for different crops to identify problem, remedies and reforms Interview with Mr Mahfooz Ursani — Additional General Secretary, Sindh Abadgar Board PAGE had an exclusive conversation with Mr Mahfooz Ursani about agriculture sector. The excerpts of the conversation are as follows: Agriculture is the culture and the lifestyle where I opened my eyes. From childhood to youth I saw my elders cultivating different crops round the year. Putting all their energy, wisdom, efforts, hopes and money in sowing it and then pray for good weather from God to raise it for the finest and richest yield. My whole…

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Interview with Mr Abdul Rahim Janoo – former Chairman, Rice Exporters Association of Pakistan (REAP) [box type=”shadow” align=”” class=”” width=””]Profile: Chairman: — Haji Razak Janoo Memorial Trust, Karachi. Pakistan Economic Forum. Masjid Al-Razak, S.I.T.E/Masjid Al-Hamida, Super Highway/Jama Masid Haider-e-Karrar (Clifton)/Jama Masjid Mustafa (Nooriabad)/Jama Masjid Umer (Manzoor Colony) Former Chairman: — Rice Exporters Association of Pakistan (REAP). FPCCI Export Trophy Awards and Achievement Awards 2015 Accounts FPCCI 2015 Fair and Exhibition Committee FPCCI 2015/2016 Former Senior Vice President: Federation of Pakistan Chambers of Commerce & Industry. Former Vice Chairman: Pakistan-Rice-Board, Government of Pakistan. Former President: Dhoraji Cooperative Housing Society. Member Managing:…

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New Mobile-Wallet Scheme facilitates Pakistanis abroad in swift, convenient and cost effective manner Interview with Mr Tariq Malik – President, Korangi Association of Trade & Industry (KATI) [box type=”shadow” align=”” class=”” width=””]Profile: Born in Karachi, on November 14, 1952, Mr. Tariq Malik graduated as bachelor of Commerce in 1973 from the University of Karachi. A celebrated English debater for various institutions, Mr. Malik held various elected positions as a student leader. With the surge of students from East Pakistan into Karachi after December 1971, Mr. Malik promptly launched and organized an effective campaign to build a Book Bank for free…

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Interview with Dr. Ayub Mehar — an economist [box type=”shadow” align=”” class=”” width=””]Profile: Dr. Ayub Mehar is currently serving as Professor at Iqra University and is also associated as economist with the Gerson Lehrman Group, Austin USA (Political Upheaval and Global Competitiveness project for World Economic Forum). Before this, he has been working at various responsible positions in industry and academic institutions in Pakistan. He has served Federation of Pakistan Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FPCCI) as Director General (R&D) for 6 years and Economic Advisor in Economic Cooperation (ECO) Chamber of Commerce and Industry. He is alumni member of…

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Interview with Mr Nasim Beg – CEO, Arif Habib Consultancy PAGE: Kindly tell me something about yourself: NASIM BEG: I am the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Arif Habib Consultancy and have been associated with the Group for seventeen years in various capacities. My overall work experience is forty-seven years, having qualified as a Chartered Accountant in 1970. I have worked both within Pakistan, as well as abroad. During the 47 years, I have worked in the financial services, as well as the real economy. PAGE: What is your take on the economic performance of Pakistan during 2017? NASIM BEG: The economic…

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Interview with Mr Khushnood Aftab –CEO and founder, Viper Technology (Pvt) Limited [box type=”info” align=”” class=”” width=””]Profile: Mr Khushnood Aftab is the CEO of Viper Technology. He is one of the entrepreneurs who has withstood all types of predicaments and has never given up, just proving that Pakistani brands are second to none.[/box] PAGE: What is your take on the economic performance of Pakistan during 2017? KHUSHNOOD AFTAB: Pakistan’s GDP remained around 5% and is expected to remain good in the future. 5% growth was I think the best in nine years. Accelerating growth is good news and reflects the…

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Interview with Mr Zafar Iqbal Ahmed – Founder President, Small & Medium Enterprises Alliance (SAMEA) [box type=”shadow” align=”” class=”” width=””]Profile: Mr Zafar Iqbal Ahmed is the founder President of Small & Medium Enterprises Alliance (SAMEA). He is one of the personalities who has always been very vociferous proponent for the promotion and growth of SMEs in Pakistan. He articulates that SMEs are the backbone of the economy. He is the President of Defence Residents’ Society, President of Bazme Kiran, President of Society for Prevention of Waywardness and President of Society for Promotion of Arabic.[/box] PAGE: What kind of impact could…

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Interview with Mr Hamid Hussain Qureshi – Chief Executive, Macca Food International [box type=”shadow” align=”” class=”” width=””]Profile: Mr Hamid Hussain Qureshi is the Chief Executive of Macca Food International, which deals in world class top quality rice varieties of Pakistan, fresh frozen sea foods, allied food commodities and branded products, milling, processing as exporting group of companies having business operations in Asia, America, Europe, Myanmar, Singapore, Sweden and Canada with clients all across the world.[/box] PAGE: What kind of impact could rupee devaluation have on rice exporters? Hamid Hussain Qureshi: Pakistani Rice Exporters will be having short term gains of profits…

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Interview with Mr Khalid Tawab – Chairman, Tawab Group of Companies PAGE: Kindly tell me about yourself: KHALID TAWAB: I am Chairman of Tawab Group of Companies which is renowned named in the manufacturing of paper and board and steel. I have served as Senior Vice President and Vice President of FPCCI and Karachi Chamber. I am honorary Consul General of Mozambique since 1989. President of Pakistan awarded me Sitara-e-Imtiaz in 2009 in recognition of my outstanding public services. My company got two time FPCCI Export Awards and one time International Asia Award due to highest exports. I am also a…

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Interview with Mr. Badruddin Fakhri – CEO, Galadari Cement (Gulf) PAGE: Kindly tell me about yourself: BADRUDDIN FAKHRI: I may briefly tell you that I passed my ICMAP final in 1976. At that time I was working in an Indian Cement Company Associated Cement Co. Ltd, which had two cement plants in Pakistan and 16 plants in India with its Head Office in Bombay. They had very strong systems whereby they were able to control 18 factories very effectively. Having worked on those systems helped me in the growth of my career. After the war with India which broke out in…

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Interview with Mr. Sohail A. Butt – CEO, Energy Energetics PAGE: KINDLY TELL US SOMETHING ABOUT YOURSELF: SOHAIL BUTT: I am a UK qualified Chartered Accountant and have spent over thirty years of my career working in the energy sector value chain that includes oil & gas exploration and production, refining, petrochemicals and oil marketing companies. My most recent area of focus is to provide consulting and advisory services in the field of energy strategy, midstream and downstream projects development. I have in the past two years focused on highlighting energy sector issues and discussed reforms required for addressing the chronic…

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Interview with Mian Zahid Hussain – Chief Executive, KenLubes International PAGE: KINDLY TELL US ABOUT YOURSELF: MIAN ZAHID HUSSAIN: I belong to Chiniot Shaikh family. My factory is located in Korangi Industrial area, Karachi. We deal in the manufacturing of industrial and automotive lubricants. I came into business when I was just 10 years of age while completing my education simultaneously. I took charge of my business when I was about to complete my matriculation. This early age involvement into our business gave me a chance to earn experience of meeting different people and understanding different aspects of trade and…

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Interview with Mr. Kashif Habib – Chief Executive, Power Cement Limited [box type=”shadow” align=”” class=”” width=””]PROFILE: Mr Kashif A. Habib is the Chief Executive of Power Cement Limited. He completed his articleship from A. F. Ferguson & Co. Being a member of Institute of Chartered Accountants of Pakistan, he gained experience pertaining to different sectors serving clients spanning to financial, manufacturing and service industries. His experience includes being Executive Director of different cement and fertilizer companies of the Arif Habib Group.[/box] While telling us about his organization, he said, “Power Cement Limited aims to be recognized nationally and internationally as…

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Interview with Syed Muhammad Talha – Director, Safe Mix Concrete (Pvt) Limited PAGE: KINDLY TELL ME ABOUT YOURSELF AND SAFE MIX CONCRETE LIMITED: SYED MUHAMMAD TALHA: I am the fellow member of the Associations of Certified Chartered Accountants and hold a Master’s degree from Karachi University. I completed my articleship from EY Ford Rhodes and Co, Chartered Accountants, where I gained experience of diverse sectors serving clients spanning the financial, manufacturing, trading and service industries. Before joining the Arif Habib Group Company, I served Al-Abbas Group and Ghulam Farooq Group. I am serving as a Director of Safe Mix Concrete (Pvt)…

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[dropcap]A[/dropcap]s a journalist with experience of around two decades, I have witnessed every finance minister saying that Pakistan is going to be an economic hub very soon. I am still waiting for that VERY SOON service. I have interacted with quite a few finance ministers face-to-face and have heard them saying that our policies would lead Pakistan to the path of progress. It has never happened? Some people say that Pervez Musharraf’s era was an era of somewhat prosperity. I have so many reasons not to believe it at all since that era led us to consumption. Let me be…

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Interview with Mr. Barkatullah Lone – Chairman, Gilgit-Baltistan International Economic Forum [box type=”shadow” align=”” class=”” width=””]PROFILE: Mr. Barkatullah Lone is Chairman of Gilgit-Baltistan International Economic Forum and is associated with a FMCG Group as CFO in a GCC county. He is a Chartered Management Accountant and Chartered Certified Accountant from UK, Chartered Global Management Accountant from the USA, Gold Medalist Management Accountant and Public Finance Accountant from Pakistan plus he holds Masters Degree in Economics and LLB from Karachi University. He has been associated with the corporate sector in Finance and Audit profession at various positions. His articles on Economy…

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Interview with Syed ShariqWaqar — economy analyst [box type=”shadow” align=”” class=”” width=””]PROFILE: Syed Shariq Waqar has got over 20 years of diversified professional experience both at national and international level in medium and large scale organizations.[/box] PAGE: YOUR VIEWS ON SAVINGS CULTURE IN PAKISTAN: SYED SHARIQWAQAR: There is a famous proverb ‘A penny saved is a penny earned’. On a general scale, the proverb has been religiously followed; however, as a nation we are following it in a way contrary to what it is teaching us. Pakistan stands amongst the countries with lowest savings-to-GDP ratio, standing at a dismal 13.1% in…

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[dropcap]P[/dropcap]akistan & Gulf Economist (PAGE) witnessed an elderly lady patient being brought by a donkey cart by her family members to The Indus Hospital also known as Recep Tayyip Erdogan Hospital in Muzaffargarh, Punjab. The poor use donkey cart as a kind of ambulance in such far-flung areas. However when reached, the patient was provided a stretcher by The Indus Hospital and was taken inside the hospital and treated with great care. When asked by PAGE, the patient and the attendants were all praise for The Indus Hospital where everyone is treated free of cost with respect and care. The Indus…

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(PAGE) was briefed by Mr Shehryar Ahmad, General Manager Communication Byco Petroleum Pakistan Limited. Following are the excerpts: [dropcap]O[/dropcap]ne of Byco’s major strategic advantages is its Single Point Mooring (SPM) facility. The SPM is the only floating liquid port in the country, allowing Byco to import both crude oil and refined petroleum products directly. At a time when the other two key ports in Karachi are facing extreme congestion due to increased port operations resulting in economic loss and higher financial costs, Byco’s SPM is a strategic advantage for Pakistan’s economy and a National Asset. The SPM allows much larger…

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Interview with Mr Shamim Ahmed Firpo — A leading businessman PAGE: KINDLY TELL US ABOUT YOURSELF AND YOUR BUSINESS: SHAMIM FIRPO: I am a self-made person and I feel proud whenever I share my success story to motivate others especially the students. I entered the business field at a very young age. My business journey began in 1968, when I started my food business with the name of “Firpo Restaurant” at Tariq Road Karachi. By the blessings of Allah SubhanahuTa’ala and my mother’s prayers, my business got success and after serving into this dynamic & tempting field, the “Firpo” brand was…

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Interview with Mr Mustafa Mirchawala – CEO, Mirchawala’s Hub of Accountancy [box type=”shadow” align=”” class=”” width=””]PROFILE: Mustafa Mirchawala is a compelling and sought after trainer and speaker who helps his audience learn complex concepts in simple ways. Having a user friendly style, he speaks regularly at leading business schools and in the corporate fraternity with exposure of various universities. He brings with himself over 9 years of professional training experience of IFRS, Financial Management and tax which is complimented by a rich blend of practical experience. Mustafa has served leading universities in Pakistan for training session like Bahria University, Commecs,…

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Interview with Syed Farhan Karim — Vice President, Capital Market Arif Habib Limited [box type=”shadow” align=”” class=”” width=””]PROFILE: Syed Farhan Karim carries a proven track record of establishing client relationship, dealing and executing brokerage deals in Capital Market of Pakistan. He has over twenty years of experience in the fields of Research and Equity Sales. He has been serving Arif Habib Limited since 1997 and currently holds a position of Vice President, Capital Market. He holds an MBA (Finance) degree from The International University (Missouri) as well as a Bachelor’s degree in Commerce and Economics. He was awarded as third…

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Keeping politics, economics beyond individuals and institution can help boost venture in the country Interview with Syed Ali Raza Bukhari, CEO Vector Securities (Pvt) Limited [box type=”shadow” align=”” class=”” width=””]PROFILE: Syed Ali Raza Bukhari co-founded Vector Securities (Pvt) Limited. It is a stock brokerage firm registered with the Pakistan Stock Exchange under their code TREC-025. The firm provides multi-channel trading platforms to its clients; from research-based advisory and execution to a low-cost online trading platform.[/box] PAGE: WHAT ARE YOUR VIEWS ABOUT 2018 IN TERMS OF BUSINESS ACTIVITIES IN PAKISTAN? SYED ALI RAZA BUKHARI: There are two perspectives to analyze business activities…

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Backing to Islamic banking admirable, but much work still needs to be done Interview with Mr. Irfan Siddiqui — President & CEO, Meezan Bank [box type=”shadow” align=”” class=”” width=””]PROFILE: Mr. Irfan Siddiqui is the founding President and Chief Executive Officer of Meezan Bank. His educational background includes a Foundation Course in Accountancy from Sunderland, UK and he is a Fellow Chartered Accountant from Institute of Chartered Accountants England and Wales. He has served at a number of senior management positions including Chief Executive Officer at Al-Meezan Investment Bank Limited, as a General Manager at Pakistan Kuwait Investment Company, Manager Finance…

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SBP rightly supervising to check risk of compliance in the banking sector Interview with Mr. Naim Farooqui –CEO, Sindh Modaraba [box type=”shadow” align=”” class=”” width=””]PROFILE: Mr. Naim Farooqui did his O & A levels from Karachi Grammar School and proceeded to United States in January 1974 from where he obtained his Bachelor of Science degree in Industrial Engineering from University of Houston in 1978. Subsequently he obtained an MBA degree in 1983. During this entire period he initially did odd jobs to finance his education and after obtaining his first degree in Engineering worked as an engineer in oil-based industries…

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Interview with Mian Zahid Hussain, (Sitara-e-Imtiaz) – President, Pakistan Businessmen and Intellectuals Forum [box type=”shadow” align=”” class=”” width=””]PROFILE: Mian Zahid Hussain belongs to Chiniot Shaikh family. He is a graduate and earned his degree from Karachi. He was born in Punjab in 1955. His factory is located in Korangi Industrial area, Karachi. He deals in the manufacturing of industrial and automotive lubricants. He came into business when he was just 10 years of age while completing his education simultaneously. He took charge of his business when he was about to complete his matriculation. This early age involvement into his business…

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Interview with Dr. Ayub Mehar — a leading economist of Pakistan [box type=”shadow” align=”” class=”” width=””]PROFILE: Dr. Ayub Mehar is serving as Professor at Iqra University and is also associated as Economist with the Gerson Lehrman Group, Austin USA (Political Upheaval and Global Competitiveness project for World Economic Forum). Before this, he has been working on various responsible positions in industry and academic institutions in Pakistan. He has served Federation of Pakistan Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FPCCI) as Director General (R&D) for 6 years. He is alumni member of the International Academy of Leadership (IAF) Gummersbach Germany, where he…

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Mehran is a symbolic brand of Pakistan with achievement and response worldwide Interview with Mr Gul Mohammad Lot – Chairman, Mehran Group of Industries [box type=”shadow” align=”” class=”” width=””]PROFILE: Mr Gul Mohammad Lot was born in Pakistan in the Diplo area of Thar District. At a very young age, he joined his father, Mr. Ghulam Muhammad Lot in his business. As far as education is concerned, he completed his Bachelors in Administration from the London School of Business and obtained Master’s Degree in Political Science from the University of Sindh, Hyderabad. As a student of Political Science and a compassionate…

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Interview with Mr Nasim Beg — Chief Executive, Arif Habib Consultancy [box type=”shadow” align=”” class=”” width=””]PROFILE: Mr Nasim Beg qualified as a Chartered Accountant in 1970 and over the time has worked in the automobile industry as well as financial services including some time in the UAE and the UK in financial services. He has been with the Arif Habib Group for last seventeen years having joined it to set up an asset management business. He currently is engaged in setting up its business consultancy unit and is also advising and supporting the Group’s entire range of financial services activities.…

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The series of project will create approximately 700,000 new jobs and add up to 2.5 percent to Pakistan’s growth rate Interview with Sardar Shoukat Popalzai, President Balochistan Economic Forum [box type=”shadow” align=”” class=”” width=””]PROFILE: Sardar Shoukat Popalzai, President of the Balochistan Economic Forum, comes from the traditional Popalzai tribe. He gained his academic degree in International Relations with major in Diplomacy and Anti-Terrorism. He has been leading many Ministerial, Governmental and private business delegations to various countries and is also a member of several important advisory committees of prestigious government organizations and business representative bodies. Over the years, he has…

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Exclusive Interview with Mr Lal Dino Mari Baloch — Honorary Investment Counsellor, Board of Investment (BoI) Prime Minister’s Office Government of Pakistan in Hong Kong & Chief Executive Bizz & Trade International Limited, Hong Kong [box type=”shadow” align=”” class=”” width=””]PROFILE: Mr. Lal Dino Mari Baloch was born in Khairpur Mirs in a political/landlord family. He got involved in business rather than going to political side. Mr. Baloch has 28 years business experience in various fields. He is the Chief Executive of Bizz & Trade International Ltd (BTI) and few other companies. Under his leadership, BTI has been successfully providing consultancy services besides…

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[dropcap]PAGE[/dropcap] (Pakistan and Gulf Economist) sought views of the women dump truck drivers of Tharparkar, Sindh namely Ms. Seeta from Mithi, Ms. Lata from Nagar Parker, Ms. Gulaba from Islamkot, Ms. Rukhsana from Nagar Parker, Ms. Dhano from Nagar Parker, Ms. Marvi Bheel from Nagar Parker, Ms. Ramoo from Islamkot, Ms. Saavitri from Nagar Parker and Ms. Daimey from Nagar Parker. All these females get instructions about driving in a comfortable training room from 9am to 5pm everyday with a female instructor and they get a chance to drive a vehicle as well. They all praised their female instructor and told…

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Interview with Ms. Tara Uzra Dawood — a Canadian-Pakistani entrepreneur [box type=”shadow” align=”” class=”” width=””]PROFILE: Ms. Tara Uzra Dawood is a Canadian-Pakistani entrepreneur, money manager and freelance journalist. At the age of 14, Tara was selected as Canada’s Youth News Representative, which is the youth wing of the Associated Press. With her entrepreneurial savvy as a young journalist, Tara established a network of links with cosmetic labels, record labels and movie studios in Canada, the United States, and Europe. Tara went on to study at Cornell University, Oxford University, and Harvard Law School, where she won numerous awards, scholarships and…

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Inclusion of women will add another dimension and diversity to the boards of companies Interview with Ms. Ameena Saiyid — Managing Director, Oxford University Press [box type=”shadow” align=”” class=”” width=””]PROFILE: Ms. Ameena Saiyid, OBE, is the Managing Director of Oxford University Press, Pakistan and the representative for Oxford University Press Pakistan, India, China and Malaysia in the Middle East. She is the Co-Founder and Director of the Karachi and Islamabad Literature Festivals. She is the first woman in Pakistan to become head of a multinational company. In 2009, she was elected Vice President of the Overseas Investors Chamber of Commerce…

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Interview with Mr H. M. Shahzad, Chairman All Pakistan Motor Dealers Association [box type=”shadow” align=”” class=”” width=””]PROFILE: Mr. H. M. Shahzad is in the automobile business since 1980 and this is the year when he established Shahzad Motors at New M. A. Jinnah road where it is still located. His business is the import and sales of used cars. He is the Chairman of the All Pakistan Motor Dealers Association (APMDA) and has been representing the association in government and at other forums for a long time. Due to his frank and candid demeanor, he has earned the respect in…

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Interview with Mr Ahmed Owais Thanvi — Managing Director, King’s Group Builders and Developers PAGE: WHAT CAN YOU TELL US ABOUT THE REAL ESTATE MARKET IN PAKISTAN? AHMED OWAIS THANVI: The real estate market of any country acts as the backbone of its economy and covers the major portion of assets within any geographical boundary. The overall real estate market in Pakistan presents a strong picture and Karachi’s market is a clear stand out in terms of volume and asset quality. Karachi as the biggest city of the country contributes 70 percent in Pakistan’s economy and acts as the major investment…

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Introduction of single window operation may simplifies its tax system Interview with Syed Muhammad Talha – Director, Safe Mix Concrete Limited [box type=”shadow” align=”” class=”” width=””]PROFILE: Syed Muhammad Talha is CFO (Chief Financial Officer) of Javedan Corporation Limited, Safe Mix Concrete Limited and International Builders and Developers (Pvt) Limited. He is also serving as a Director of Safe Mix Concrete Limited. He is associated with the group for more than 8 years. He has a working experience of 15 years in various diversified capacities. Javedan Corporation Limited launched its project named as Naya Nazimabad (NN) which is a well-planned gated…

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Interview with Mr Salim Ghauri – CEO, NETSOL Technologies Inc [box type=”shadow” align=”” class=”” width=””]PROFILE: Mr Salim Ghauri is a technologist by profession and a software developer by choice. He has been working in the IT industry for last 39 years. He founded NETSOL Technologies in 1996. NETSOL Technologies is a provider of IT and enterprise software solutions. The Company’s primary source of revenue is the licensing, customization, enhancement and maintenance of its suite of financial applications for businesses in the global lease and finance industry.[/box] PAGE: KINDLY TELL US ABOUT THE LEADING PRODUCTS OF YOUR ORGANIZATION: SALIM GHAURI: NETSOL is…

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Interview with Dr Saiyid Khusro Iqbal — Head of HR, General Tyre & Rubber Company (Pakistan) [box type=”shadow” align=”” class=”” width=””]PROFILE: Dr Saiyid Khusro Iqbal is successfully managing the human resource and budgets of General Tyre & Rubber Company (Pakistan), which has about 2,800 employees; 12 billion rupee sales turnover; famous brand around the globe; market leader; 5 branches and collaborating with a German company Continental Tyre. He got an opportunity to work in three continents namely Asia, Africa and Australia. He has broad and successful experience in both local and international good HR practices. He has traveled widely and…

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Interview with Ms Maheen Rahman — CEO, Alfalah GHP Investment Management Ltd [box type=”shadow” align=”” class=”” width=””]About Alfalah GHP Investment Management Limited: The Company is licensed by SECP under the Non-Banking Finance Companies (Establishment and Regulation) Rules, 2003 (NBFC Rules). It was incorporated on October 18, 2004 as a public limited company under the Companies Ordinance, 1984. The sponsor of Alfalah GHP Investment Management Ltd is Bank Alfalah Limited. Other shareholders include GHP Beteiligungen Limited and MAB Investments Inc. At present, the company is managing total assets of PKR 50 billion (approx USD 474 million) through various mutual funds schemes…

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Interview with Dr Amjad Waheed — CFA, Chief Executive Officer, NBP Fullerton Asset Management Limited (NAFA) [box type=”shadow” align=”” class=”” width=””]PROFILE: Dr Amjad Waheed holds a doctorate in Investments & Finance from Southern Illinois University, USA, and is also a Chartered Financial Analyst. For last eleven years, he is CEO of NBP Fullerton Asset Management Ltd (NAFA), which is a subsidiary of National Bank of Pakistan, with Fullerton Fund Management Company of Singapore as the other joint venture partner. NAFA is presently managing twenty mutual and pension funds, and several portfolios. Total assets under management of NAFA are presently about…

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MUFAP is making significant contributions and regulated the industry norms to great extent Interview with Ms Mashmooma Zehra Majeed — CFA, FRM, Chief Executive Officer, Mutual Funds Association of Pakistan (MUFAP) [box type=”shadow” align=”” class=”” width=””]PROFILE: Ms. Mashmooma Zehra Majeed joined MUFAP in 2012 as the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the association. She has been associated with the asset management industry in Pakistan for over fifteen years with her forte being investment management and product development. She has played an instrumental role in launching the first Islamic open-end mutual fund in Pakistan as well as the launch of the…

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Interview with Mr Khalid Tawab (Sitara-e-Imtiaz) – Chairman, Tawab Group of Companies [box type=”shadow” align=”” class=”” width=””]PROFILE: Mr Khalid Tawab is Chairman of Tawab Group of Companies which is renowned for the manufacturing of paper, board and steel. He has served as Senior Vice President and Vice President of Federation of Pakistan Chambers of Commerce & Industry (FPCCI) and Karachi Chamber of Commerce & Industry ( KCCI). He is also an honorary Consul General of Mozambique since 1989. President of Pakistan awarded him Sitara-e-Imtiaz in 2009 in recognition of his outstanding public services. His company got two times FPCCI Export…

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Interview with Sheikh Nisar Ahmed ParchamWalay – Managing Director, VIP FLAGS [box type=”shadow” align=”” class=”” width=””]PROFILE: Sheikh Nisar Ahmed ParchamWalay was born in Delhi, India in August 1947. He completed graduation in 1965 and migrated to Pakistan in 1967 with no money in hand. He started his business first by taking experience in a textile mill and after two years, he was able to start his own factory initially with 4 power looms and then gradually increased number of looms and production in cloth industry. In 1985, he set up his company named VIP FLAGS and started his flag business.…

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Interview with Muhammad Talib Ahmed – Chief Executive Officer, Affan Traders [box type=”shadow” align=”” class=”” width=””]PROFILE: Muhammad Talib Ahmed, a young entrepreneur, set up his organization named Affan Traders in 2016, which is a surgical items’ wholesale supplier in Karachi and Lahore and would be giving service throughout Pakistan in future.[/box] PAGE: WHAT ARE YOUR FEELINGS AS YOUTH REGARDING THE IMPORTANCE OF THE INDEPENDENCE DAY? MUHAMMAD TALIB AHMED: 14th August may be an ordinary date of the English calendar for the rest of the world but it holds immense importance in the life of every Pakistani as it is the independence…

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Interview with Dr Syed Arif Hussain – CEO, Excel Insurance Company Limited [box type=”shadow” align=”” class=”” width=””]PROFILE: Dr Syed Arif Hussain is a motivated person bringing to Excel Insurance Company Limited his expertise in management, resource development, marketing and execution of business strategies. His professional experience is spread over 20 years at progressive senior level positions and has the experience of underwriting, reinsurance, claims management and marketing with the State Life Insurance Corporation of Pakistan. He has been proactively involved in the operations of a Family Takaful Company, Dawood Family Takaful Limited since its inception and as a Chief Executive…

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Interview with Mr Hasanali Abdullah — Managing Director, EFU General Insurance Ltd and Chairman, Insurance Association of Pakistan [box type=”shadow” align=”” class=”” width=””]PROFILE: Mr Hasanali Abdullah is Chartered Accountant and Certified Director from Pakistan Institute of Corporate Governance (PICG). He has been associated with EFU General Insurance Limited since 1979 and is Managing Director & Chief Executive of the Company since 2011. He is also a Director of EFU Life Assurance Ltd, Allianz EFU Health Insurance Ltd, EFU Services (Private) Ltd, Tourism Promotion Services (Pakistan) Limited (owners of Serena Hotels), Honorary Treasurer of Aga Khan Hospital & Medical College Foundation,…

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Gov should take responsibility of financial expenses of at least 25pc of students studying in the private sector Interview with Professor Mohammad Rais Alvi — Director, KASBIT PAGE: TELL ME SOMETHING ABOUT YOURSELF AND KASBIT, PLEASE: PROFESSOR MOHAMMAD RAIS ALVI: I have been working for the last 51 years in the field of education. I worked as college professor, Additional Secretary Government of Sindh, Executive District Officer (EDO) CDGK, Registrar University of Karachi, Guest Professor Tokyo University, Vice Chancellor Qalandar Shahbaz University and Rector Newports Institute. Currently, I am working as Director KASBIT (Khadim Ali Shah Bukhari Institute of Technology). I…

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Interview with Mr Saim Amin –Manager Training, CORPORATE FORUM [box type=”shadow” align=”” class=”” width=””]PROFILE: Mr Saim Amin is one of the dynamic young entrepreneurs of Pakistan. He is co-founder of CORPORATE FORUM, one of the leading corporate training organizations in Pakistan. Having completed his education, he came up with an idea to launch a quality corporate training organization. He is hardly 29 years of age with a success story. His aim was to ensure quality corporate training with individual attention so that learning actually takes place.[/box] PAGE: WHAT MADE YOU COME UP WITH AN IDEA TO LAUNCH A CORPORATE TRAINING…

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Interview with Mr Shamsuddin A. Shaikh – CEO, Engro Powergen Ltd, Sindh Engro Coal Mining Company & Thar Power Company Ltd [box type=”shadow” align=”” class=”” width=””]PROFILE OF SHAMSUDDIN A. SHAIKH: Mr Shamsuddin A. Shaikh is the CEO of Engro Powergen Ltd, Sindh Engro Coal Mining Company & Thar Power Company Ltd. Prior to his current position, Mr. Shaikh was Senior Vice President at Engro Foods. He is Chairman of the Board of Directors of Engro Powergen Thar (Pvt) Limited and Engro Powergen Qadirpur Limited while he also serves on the Board of Directors of Sindh Engro Coal Mining Company, Thar…

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Interview with Mr Mahmood Baqi Moulvi – Chairman, M. M. Group of Companies PAGE: TELL ME SOMETHING ABOUT YOURSELF AND YOUR ORGANIZATION: MAHMOOD BAQI MOULVI: Allah ta’aIa has been very kind to me. I started my career as a cadet in the Merchant Navy in 1977 and after that joined a shipping company in Karachi. In 1985, I opened my own shipping company and then in 1995 became a ship owner and expanded my shipping business into ship demolishing as well. In 2000, I diversified into rice trade and Alhamdulillah became the top rice exporter from Pakistan for two consecutive…

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Interview with Mr Irfan Siddiqui — President & CEO, Meezan Bank [box type=”shadow” align=”” class=”” width=””]PROFILE: Mr Irfan Siddiqui is the founding President and Chief Executive Officer of Meezan Bank. His educational background includes a Foundation Course in Accountancy from Sunderland, UK and he is a Fellow Chartered Accountant from Institute of Chartered Accountants England and Wales. He has served at a number of senior management positions including Chief Executive Officer at Al-Meezan Investment Bank Limited, as a General Manager at Pakistan Kuwait Investment Company, Manager Finance and Operation at Abu Dhabi Investment Company and Senior Business Analyst at Exxon…

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Setting up export-oriented industries is the only way for economic growth for our country Interview with Mr Tanweer Haral — Head Strategic Marketing, National Rural Support Program (NRSP) Microfinance Bank Limited [box type=”shadow” align=”” class=”” width=””]PROFILE: Mr Tanweer Haral is currently working as Head Strategic Marketing at NRSP Microfinance Bank Limited. He also worked for MCB Arif Habib Savings and Investments Limited spanning over 11 years where his last assignment was Head of Sales, Marketing. He even had the privilege of gaining a lot of experience in Corporate Banking with the leading banks for more than 6 years after completing…

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Local food outlets taking more profits as to their foreign counterparts Interview with Mr Naim Anwar — President & CEO, Crescent Star Foods Ltd [box type=”shadow” align=”” class=”” width=””]Profile Mr Naim Anwar has been in business for over last thirty years in various trades out of which major part of 22 years has been in insurance working in various roles from an agent to the current CEO level with an accounting background with vast corporate experience spread over all areas of finance to underwriting to reinsurance to sales and operations. CSIL (Crescent Star Insurance Ltd), the parent company is in…

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Interview with Mr Rafiq Rangoonwala – President, Pakistan Food Association [box type=”shadow” align=”” class=”” width=””]Profile Mr Rafiq Rangoonwala has been associated with the restaurant industry for last 37 years. He started his career with KFC in Houston, worked in Carribbean Region looking after English speaking island before moving to Cairo, Egypt as Franchise Service Manager for Egypt and Saudi Arabia, and then was promoted as Marketing Director for Middle East for KFC International in 1991. He overlooked KFC, Hardees, AMERICANA Chicken Tikka, TGI Fridays, and Harry Ramsdens in UAE before taking over KFC business in Pakistan as CEO for 15…

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Interview with Muhammad Jawed Bilwani – Chairman, Pakistan Apparel Forum & spokesman of seven Industrial Associations of Karachi [box type=”shadow” align=”” class=”” width=””]Profile Muhammad Jawed Bilwani is the proprietor of M/s. J.B. Industries, one of the leading and prominent manufacturers and exporters of knitted garments and dyed fabric specializing in high quality knitting, stitching and dyeing with latest hi-tech machines. He is Chairman of Pakistan Apparel Forum; former Central Chairman & presently Chief Coordinator of Pakistan Hosiery Manufacturers & Exporters Association; Board Member of SITE Ltd; President Haji Abdullah Haroon Muslim Gymkhana; former President Pakistan-Afghanistan Joint Chamber of Commerce and…

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Interview with Mr Shamim Ahmed Firpo – President, Karachi Chamber of Commerce & Industry PAGE: KINDLY TELL US SOMETHING ABOUT YOURSELF: SHAMIM AHMED FIRPO: Besides discharging my services as President of Karachi Chamber, I am also the Chairman of M/s Firpo Private Limited and M/s Saeed Ghani. I am also the President of Pak-Ukraine Trade & Culture Information Center. My association with Karachi Chamber dates back to 2007 when I became part of Businessmen Group being led by its Chairman Mr. Siraj Kassam Teli. I have also served the business and industrial community of Karachi as Former Senior Vice Chairman KCCI,…

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Under current plan, Sindh Bank foresees consumer financing to increase significantly by 2020 Interview with Mr Tariq Ahsan — President & CEO, Sindh Bank Limited [box type=”shadow” align=”” class=”” width=””]Profile Mr. Tariq Ahsan has joined Sindh Bank Limited as Executive Vice President and Head of Treasury at its inception in December 2010 and was later appointed as its acting President & Chief Executive Officer (CEO) on April 15, 2016 and confirmed as its President and Chief Executive Officer (CEO) on July 29, 2016. During his tenure in the financial services industry, he has had versatile work experience of over 27…

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Interview with Mr Gul Mohammad Lot – Chairman, Mehran Group of Industries [box type=”shadow” align=”” class=”” width=””]Profile Mr Gul Mohammad Lot was born in Pakistan in the Diplo area of Thar District. At a very young age, he joined his father, Mr. Ghulam Muhammad Lot, in his business. He is currently a Chairman of Mehran Group of Industries. As far as education is concerned, he completed his Bachelors in Administration from the London School of Business and obtained Master’s Degree in Political Science from the University of Sindh, Hyderabad. As a student of Political Science and a compassionate patriot, he…

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Modarabas are playing significant role for the promotion of Islamic finance within the country More availability of trained employees and awareness within the public key path to make progress Interview with Muhammad Shoaib Ibrahim — MD & CEO, First Habib Modaraba [box type=”shadow” align=”” class=”” width=””]Profile: During his service tenure, Muhammad Shoaib Ibrahim has worked in almost each and every department of the company and has gained extensive experience of banking and finance particularly in Islamic Finance both in support and core function of the institution. At present, First Habib Modaraba (FHM) is well positioned in Islamic financial market with…

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Interview with Mr Pervaiz Ahmed – An Islamic Finance professional [box type=”shadow” align=”” class=”” width=””]Profile Pervaiz Ahmed is an Islamic Finance professional. He has over 28 years of leadership experience in local, multinational and government organizations. He is the founding Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Pak-Qatar Family Takaful. Currently, he is associated with The Indus Hospital as Executive Director and with Al-Meezan Investment management as Independent Director.[/box] PAGE:YOUR VIEWS ON THE GROWTH OF ISLAMIC FINANCE IN PAKISTAN: PERVAIZ AHMED: In Pakistan, public by and large does not want to deal with products with Riba and its associated products. Hence, there…

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Interview with Mr Irfan Siddiqui — President and CEO, Meezan Bank [box type=”shadow” align=”” class=”” width=””]Profile: Mr Irfan Siddiqui is the founding President and Chief Executive Officer of Meezan Bank. His educational background includes a Foundation Course in Accountancy from Sunderland, UK and he is a Fellow Chartered Accountant from Institute of Chartered Accountants England and Wales. He has served at a number of senior management positions including Chief Executive Officer at Al-Meezan Investment Bank Limited, as a General Manager at Pakistan Kuwait Investment Company, Manager Finance and Operation at Abu Dhabi Investment Company and Senior Business Analyst at Exxon…

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Gwadar port is the key to economic prosperity, regional connectivity and maritime development for Pakistan Interview with Mr Ahmed Chinoy, a renowned businessman [box type=”shadow” align=”” class=”” width=””]PROFILE Mr Ahmed Chinoy is a businessman by profession and social activist by nature. Being in his profession for over 25 years with a vast experience and knowledge, he is associated with the textile industry since the beginning of his career. His business has diversified into more categories that are: Construction Development, Project Management and Controlled Poultry Farms. He has served as the CPLC Chief for over 6 years and is associated with…

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Interview with Mr Amir ul Ebad Khan – CEO, Raas Systems Inc [box type=”shadow” align=”” class=”” width=””]PROFILE – Over twenty years of Engineering experience in Energy & Environment Management – Responsible for Implementing and monitoring strategies to improve Energy Mix and Energy Management within Environment & Cost Constrains – Successfully completed projects for Alternate Energy, Stand-alone units as well as Tie-Grid projects – In-depth knowledge of Energy Audit & Management – Well informed with KYOTO PROTOCOL & CDM Certification – Detail knowledge & Experience of Echo Industrial Development QUALIFICATION: – M.S Leading to Ph.D (Energy & Environment)Continue – Master of…

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Interview with Sardar Shoukat Popalzai – President, Balochistan Economic Forum [box type=”shadow” align=”” class=”” width=””]PROFILE Sardar Shoukat Popalzai, President Balochistan Economic Forum, gained his degree in International Relations with major on diplomacy, economics and anti terrorism before spending nearly 24 years on professional career in the field of information service on International Diplomacy — Corporate Information and Media Monitoring. Over the years, he has made presentations at numerous important conferences and corporate briefings. He is also recipient of awards from USA, Great Britain, France, the People’s Republic of China and the Federal Republic of Germany. BALOCHISTAN ECONOMIC FORUM: Formed in…

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Interview with Syed Ali Raza Bukhari — Chief Executive, Vector Securities (Pvt) Ltd PAGE: KINDLY TELL ME ABOUT YOURSELF AND YOUR CAREER: SYED ALI RAZA BUKHARI: I have been associated with the financial sector for quite over a decade now and have been involved in addressing multiple dimensions from catering to specific client needs to diligently managing back office operations including risk management and compliance. It is a matter of great privilege and prestige for me to have been associated with the capital markets in various capacities. Being the front line manager of a stock brokerage firm and in particular…

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Interview with Mr Faraz Hussain — SAP ERP Execution Head, TallyMarks Consulting PAGE: KINDLY TELL ME ABOUT YOURSELF AND YOUR CAREER: FARAZ HUSSAIN: In my humble opinion, I believe in always being open to knowledge as I am a staunch believer of the fact that mankind is disposable and what remains of us is merely what we leave behind. Hence, over the last decade and a half, I have immersed myself in learning and imparting the technical know-how to those under my wing. I manage a vigorous team of some of the most skillful SAP Consultants in South Asia and…

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Interview with Mr Hamad Rasool Bhullar, Analyst [box type=”shadow” align=”” class=”” width=””]Profile Mr Hamad Rasool Bhullar got his basic commerce education from Hailey College of Commerce and later on pursued professional education at ICMA Pakistan, ICSP and ICAP. In addition to that he did some post graduate Diplomas in IT, Islamic Finance and MPhil in Finance. He worked for a firm of Chartered Accountants for almost 12 years till 2003 after which he has been working in both private and public sectors. He has the privilege to issue first Sukuk in Pakistani market. He has been involved in training, advisory…

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Interview with Mr M. Abdul Aleem – CEO, Overseas Investors Chamber of Commerce and Industry (OICCI) [box type=”shadow” align=”” class=”” width=””]Profile Mr M. Abdul Aleem is a Fellow Chartered Accountant (gold medalist) and a Cost and Management Accountant with over 40 years of experience in senior management positions in leading multinational and national companies. He served in a senior executive role in Exxon Chemicals Pakistan, now Engro Corporation, for over 16 years before joining Pakistan Tobacco, which led him to move to British American Tobacco subsidiaries overseas as a CEO for operating companies in Indo-China and Indian ocean region. On…

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Interview with Mr Samad Habib — Chief Executive, Javedan Corporation Ltd [box type=”shadow” align=”” class=”” width=””]PROFILE After completing his education in Business Administration, Mr Samad Habib started his career at the Arif Habib Group joining the brokerage business. He moved through various aspects of the business from an analyst to research and eventually moved towards leading the business. During the time in the financial services sector, he served as a core team member looking at various group investments at a strategic partnership level and developed a strong desire to see Pakistani businesses operate according to international standards. With time, the…

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Interview with Mr Abdul Sami Khan – Chairman, Pakistan Petroleum Dealers Association and Chairman CNG Dealers Association [box type=”shadow” align=”” class=”” width=””]Profile Mr Abdul Sami Khan (Alig), Sitara-e-Imtiaz, was born in India and belongs to the Kakar tribe. He completed his education from Aligarh Muslim University. His family migrated to Pakistan. His father, Mr Abdul Waheed Khan, started Terry Towel factory business and he also joined him in the business. Then he stepped into the petrol business and since then he has been very active in it. His designations are as follows: – Chairman, Pakistan Petroleum Dealers Association – Chairman,…

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Meezan Bank is leading the Pakistan’s banking sector to pass health benefits to the consumers Interview with Mohammad Raza — Group Head Customer Support, Meezan Bank [box type=”shadow” align=”” class=”” width=””]Profile Mohammad Raza is currently serving Meezan Bank as the Group Head of Customer Support. He graduated with a Bachelor of Engineering from DCET-NED University of Engineering & Technology and holds a Masters degree in Business Administration from Institute of Business Management (CBM). He is a DAIBP and has also completed a Post Graduate Diploma in Islamic Banking and Finance from the Centre of Islamic Economics. He joined Meezan Bank…

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Interview with Mr Sohail Butt – CEO, Energy Energetics Consulting [box type=”shadow” align=”” class=”” width=””]PROFILE AND THE CURRENT ENERGY SITUATION: Mr Sohail Butt has spent over twenty five years internationally in the energy sector value chain as a finance professional, systems and business process improvement specialist and as a consultant/advisor working with senior oil and gas executives to develop and implement value creating strategies in transformational and business development mode. He is a UK-qualified Chartered Accountant and most recently his area of focus is to provide consulting and advisory services in the field of petroleum, power generation, transmission and distribution…

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