In today’s fast-paced digital landscape, businesses are constantly seeking innovative ways to optimize operations and enhance productivity. Robotic Process Automation (RPA) has emerged as a revolutionary technology that enables organizations to streamline workflows, reduce errors, and achieve cost efficiency by automating repetitive tasks. This article explores the fundamentals of RPA, its benefits, use cases, and its potential to reshape industries. What is RPA? Robotic Process Automation refers to the use of software robots or “bots” to mimic human actions within digital systems. These bots can interact with applications, extract and process data, and perform routine tasks that were traditionally handled…
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Spotify brought the magic of music to life at its much-anticipated year-end celebration, Wrapped 2024 event in Karachi. The vibrant evening showcased the year’s top artists, songs, and listeners, and was attended by a diverse audience of music lovers, influencers, and local artists. Hosted by Zehra Merchant, the event began with DJ SIDD’s performance, who kept the night alive with his dynamic beats. Annural Khalid, Spotify’s top woman artist of 2024 Wrapped, followed with a soulful performance, and the night reached its peak with Hasan Raheem, whose signature energy had the crowd on their feet. Speaking at the occasion, Talha Hashim, Spotify’s Marketing Manager for…
IBA is leading the charge toward a sustainable future with its ambitious green initiatives. As part of its ongoing commitment to environmental stewardship, IBA has introduced several groundbreaking projects aimed at reducing its carbon footprint and promoting renewable energy across its campuses & hostels. One of the key highlights is the launch of electric-powered shuttles at the IBA Main Campus. These eco-friendly vehicles, powered by the solar plant at the campus, offer a green transportation solution for students, faculty, and staff. This initiative aligns with IBA’s sustainability goals and represents a significant step towards minimizing dependency on fossil fuels, ensuring…
The Chairman of National Business Group Pakistan, the President of the Pakistan Businessmen and Intellectuals Forum, the President of All Karachi Industrial Alliance, the Chairman of the FPCCI Advisory Board, and the President and former provincial minister, Mian Zahid Hussain, said on Thursday that the slow internet is badly affecting the economy. Businesses are bearing the brunt of the slow internet, with the employment of a large number of people hanging in the balance, underscoring the urgent need for a solution, he said. Mian Zahid Hussain’s call for government intervention to resolve the slow internet issue is not just a…
Blockchain technology has emerged as one of the most revolutionary innovations of the 21st century, transforming industries and creating new opportunities for secure, transparent, and decentralized solutions. Although initially developed to support cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin, blockchain’s potential extends far beyond digital currencies. This article explores the fundamentals, applications, and future prospects of blockchain technology. What is Blockchain? At its core, blockchain is a distributed ledger technology (DLT) that records transactions in a secure and immutable manner. Unlike traditional databases that rely on centralized servers, blockchain operates on a decentralized network of computers, known as nodes. Each node maintains a copy…
IBA Karachi held its Convocation for the Class of 2024 at the Main Campus. It marked a Momentous Occasion as 1353 Graduates were conferred degrees in several disciplines. The Graduating Batch included 990 Graduates from 6 Undergraduate programs, 362 Graduates from 11 Postgraduate programs, and 1 PhD graduate. The Chief Guest of the ceremony was the Honorable Chief Minister of Sindh and Patron IBA, Syed Murad Ali Shah. Ms. Sultana Siddiqui, President of Hum Network & Founder of Moomal Productions attended as a Guest of Honor. Patron IBA, Mr. Shah, praised IBA for building a Legacy of Leadership, Excellence & Impact, supported by World Class Faculty, 67% of whom hold…
Pakistan Mercantile Exchange Limited (PMEX) has appointed Mr. Khurram Zafar as the Chief Executive Officer, who has already taken charge. Mr. Khurram Zafar joins PMEX with a robust background in business, technology, and capital market leadership in Pakistan, Europe, and the United States. Prior to his appointment at PMEX, Khurram led a Pakistan focused venture capital fund, founded the LUMS Center for Entrepreneurship, and served on the Board and Digital Financial Services advisory committee of Karandaaz Pakistan. He has also served as the Chief Information Officer at the Lahore Stock Exchange and has consulted for Merrill Lynch, Visa, and Bank…
Engro Corporation is pleased to announce a strategic partnership with Pakistan Mobile Communications Limited (“Jazz”) and its parent company VEON Group, marking a significant step forward in expanding Pakistan’s digital connectivity. This initiative aims to drive affordable, widespread access to telecommunication services, supporting national efforts to bridge the digital divide. Through a scheme of arrangement, Jazz’s telecom infrastructure assets, housed under its wholly owned subsidiary Deodar (Private) Limited (“Deodar”), will vest into Engro Connect, a subsidiary of Engro Corporation. Engro will guarantee the repayment of Deodar’s debt of USD 375 million and provide Jazz with an additional USD 187.7 million.…
GCC is a flourishing garden in the middle of a fire: first SG The new slogan to greet citizens in the member states of the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) is “The future is Gulf”. Despite the ongoing regional unrest due to the Israeli genocide in Gaza and the West Bank, and its invasion of Lebanon, as well as the sudden re-eruption of fighting in Syria, plans for a brighter future dominated the 45th GCC Summit in Kuwait on Sunday. Although Abdullah Bishara told me that the summit was held at a time when the world is “facing serious and unpredictable…
Envoy attracts Chinese investment in textile Pakistan welcomes Chinese investment in its textile sector, said Khalil Hashmi, Pakistan’s Ambassador to China, while highlighting the strategic advantages of injecting capital into the textile industry, which is called a pillar of the country’s economy. He was speaking at the Pakistan-China B2B Investment Meeting on Textiles held in Suzhou, China. Organised by the Pakistani embassy, the consulate general in Shanghai and the Board of Investment (BOI), the event in Suzhou – a renowned hub for China’s textile industry – was aimed at fostering joint ventures, trade and investment partnerships between leading Pakistani and…
Engro Partners with VEON’s Jazz to Expand Pakistan’s Digital Connectivity: Engro Corporation is pleased to announce a strategic partnership with Pakistan Mobile Communications Limited (“Jazz”) and its parent company VEON Group, marking a significant step forward in expanding Pakistan’s digital connectivity. This initiative aims to drive affordable, widespread access to telecommunication services, supporting national efforts to bridge the digital divide. Samsung One UI 7 Beta Unveiled With New Features: Samsung has announced a delay for One UI 7, pushing its release to early 2025. Despite the later-than-expected arrival, a beta program launches today, showcasing some of the new features.Key improvements include enhanced…
Pakistan Stock Exchange signs MoU with IBA Karachi to enhance capacity building and data sharing with students & faculty of the Institute. Pakistan Stock Exchange and the Institute of Business Administration (IBA) Karachi have formalized their collaboration by signing a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) aimed at enhancing capacity building and data sharing. This MOU marks a significant milestone in their shared commitment to advancing financial education and market research in Pakistan. The MoU was signed by Mr. Farrukh H. Sabzwari, Managing Director & CEO of Pakistan Stock Exchange, and Dr. S Akbar Zaidi, Executive Director of IBA Karachi, during a…
Kibor rate is the average interest rate at which term deposits are offered between prime banks in the Pakistani wholesale money market or interbank market. KIBOR as a benchmark, to encourage transparency and improve management of the market risk undertaken by banks. Kibor Rates In Pakistan TENOR BID OFFER 1 – Week 14.89 15.39 2 – Week 14.71 15.21 1 – Month 14.18 14.68 3 – Month 12.36 12.61 6 – Month 12.31 12.56 9 – Month 12.05 12.55 1 – Year 11.94 12.44 Last Updated on 6th Dec 2024 Source: SBP
by Felix Richter International Anti-Corruption Day is observed annually on December 9 to raise awareness about the harmful effects of corruption and to promote efforts to combat it. Introduced by the United Nations in 2003 following the adoption of the United Nations Convention against Corruption, the day emphasizes the global nature of the problem, which erodes public trust, exacerbates inequality and undermines development. While corruptions is in fact a global issue, the degree to which people perceive it to be a problem varies greatly across countries. According to Ipsos’ What Worries the World survey, 26 percent of respondents from 29 countries named financial…
by Florian Zandt At 4.3 million metric tonnes of loaded and unloaded international air freight, Hong Kong International Airport remains the most important cargo airport despite still lagging behind its 2019 volume by around 500,000 metric tonnes. As data from Airports Council International (ACI) shows, most airports with the highest volume of air freight have yet to reach pre-pandemic levels in this segment, with two notable exceptions. Ted Stevens Anchorage International Airport, situated six miles south of the biggest city in Alaska, increased the volume of international freight handled by 500,000 metric tonnes, moving up two ranks to fourth place compared to 2019. Cargo going…
by Anna Fleck According to the World Health Organisation (WHO), an estimated 1.19 million people die in road accidents around the world each year. The United Nations General Assembly has set the target of halving this number by 2030. Road traffic injuries have become the leading cause of death for people aged between 5 and 29 years old. According to the WHO, more than half of all road traffic deaths are of pedestrians, cyclists, and motorcyclists. As this chart shows, road safety (or lack of) is a global issue. But in some places, road deaths are more likely than others, with as many as nine…
by Florian Zandt The airports with the highest number of embarking and disembarking passengers in 2023 have largely regained their pre-pandemic momentum, with Istanbul, Denver and Dallas-Fort Worth climbing 21, 10 and seven spots, respectively, to their current ranks. Four of the eight airports in the top list can be found in the United States. According to data released by industry association Airports Council International (ACI) in July 2024, Atlanta Hartsfield-Jackson was and remains the airport with the highest volume of passenger traffic. The airport served 105 million passengers in the past year, down five percent compared to 2019 figures. Overall passenger figures, however,…
by Anna Fleck The state of illegal, unreported and unregulated fishing has worsened globally since 2021, according to the 2023 IUU Fishing Risk Index. In 2023, the global IUU score was 2.28 out of 5 (where 5=worst and 0=best), up from 2.24 in 2021. While only a small change, this highlights how there has been no notable progress in overall global IUU fishing risk in recent years. As the following chart shows, China was the worst performing country of 2023 with a high 3.69 out of 5. While China also held this unenviable position in 2021 and 2019, the country has improved slightly since…
by Anna Fleck, How many years can we expect to enjoy our retirement in good health? According to calculations by Statista, Europeans could expect to have around 12 healthy years after their retirement, as of 2022 (EU-27: 11.7 years), with the average effective age of exit from the labour market 63. Pensioners living in Norway, Slovenia and Luxembourg are estimated to have 15 to 16 healthy years after retirement, while the Maltese, Belgians, French and Swedes were also above the European average (14 to 15 years). Indicators such as the average exit age from the labor market also influence the number…
by Felix Richter While “Made in China” has become a staple of our everyday lives, with everything from our phones to our clothes made in “the world’s factory”, that hasn’t always been the case. It wasn’t until China’s accession to the World Trade Organization in 2001 that the country really opened up to the world economy, quickly turning it into the most important link in today’s global supply chains. Our chart, based on WTO data, illustrates China’s breathtaking rise to the top of the world’s merchandise exporters over the past 23 years, while also showing who dominated world trade before the China’s manufacturing…
The showbiz industry has significant potential to boost Pakistan’s economy by creating jobs, generating revenue, and enhancing the country’s global image. By leveraging the growing interest in media, entertainment, and cultural exports, Pakistan can position its showbiz industry as a key driver of economic growth. The showbiz industry holds immense potential to contribute to Pakistan’s economy. By addressing the challenges and implementing supportive policies, Pakistan can transform its entertainment sector into a significant economic driver. With strategic investment and global outreach, the industry can not only boost revenues but also reshape the country’s cultural and economic narrative. Key Ways Showbiz…
TCL, Pakistan’s No. 1 LED TV brand has partnered with Arsenal to celebrate the power of unity and collaboration. In their latest campaign, Arsenal players Declan Rice, Mikel Merino, and Ben White star to showcase how resilience and team spirit can pave the way for greatness and extraordinary moments. Celebrating a Team-First Mentality Beyond the Pitch This partnership is about more than technology and football it’s a celebration of the values of teamwork, resilience, and community. Whether it’s supporters rallying behind their club or families overcoming challenges together, the campaign spotlights how small, everyday efforts can lead to greatness. Through…
DWP Technologies, Pakistan’s leading technology experts and part of the DWP Group, has been honored with the prestigious Data Center Technologies Integration Recognition Award at the Huawei Partner Connect event during GITEX 2024 in Dubai. This top-tier recognition underscored DWP Techonologies’ exceptional ability to design and deliver state-of-the-art hybrid green data center solutions, meeting customer’s advanced AI and high-performance computing requirements. It highlighted DWP Technologies’ unwavering commitment to innovation, technical expertise, and project execution. By delivering cutting-edge data center infrastructure solutions and ensuring exceptional customer experiences, DWP Technologies has solidified its position as a trusted partner in the technology landscape…
Quantum computing is an advanced field of computation leveraging the principles of quantum mechanics to process information in fundamentally new ways. Unlike classical computers, which use bits as binary states (0 or 1), quantum computers utilize quantum bits, or qubits, which can exist in superpositions of states, enabling them to represent both 0 and 1 simultaneously. Core Concepts of Quantum Computing Superposition: Qubits can exist in multiple states at once, allowing quantum computers to explore many possibilities simultaneously. Entanglement: When qubits become entangled, the state of one qubit is inherently connected to another, no matter the distance. This enables incredibly…
Good health is the foundation of a happy and fulfilling life. By adopting consistent habits, you can enhance your physical and mental well-being. Here are five practical tips: Balanced Nutrition Eat a variety of whole foods, including fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains. Limit processed foods, added sugars, and unhealthy fats to maintain energy levels and prevent diseases. Stay Physically Active Engage in at least 30 minutes of moderate exercise daily, such as walking, jogging, or yoga. Regular activity strengthens your heart, boosts immunity, and improves mental health. Hydration Matters Drink plenty of water throughout the day. Staying hydrated…
Written By Cressida Bowyer, University of Portsmouth and Erika Hughes, University of Portsmouth Member states of the UN environment assembly are meeting this week in Busan, South Korea to discuss the details of a global plastics treaty for the fifth, and hopefully final, time. Negotiations can be difficult, monotonous, and often go around in circles. The talks can go on for more than 14 hours a day. Those attending complain of meeting fatigue. So far, despite the efforts of the chair Luis Vayas Valdivieso, the global plastics treaty negotiations remain on a knife edge. Decisions have stalled, corporate interests have…
The reputation of teachers in the education system of Pakistan is a multifaceted issue, reflecting the challenges and opportunities they face in an evolving socio-economic and educational landscape. Teachers are critical to shaping the country’s future by educating the youth, but their status, performance, and public perception vary widely depending on the region, institution, and socio-economic factors. Key Aspects of Teachers’ Reputation in 2024 Societal Respect and Perception Urban vs. Rural Divide: In urban areas, teachers in well-established private institutions often enjoy higher respect due to perceived competence, better resources, and higher salaries. However, in rural areas, teachers sometimes struggle with…
Delivery milestone celebrated today at a special event and showcase in Dubai Airline reveals latest interiors, industry-first technologies and innovations onboard Addition of A350 to Emirates fleet primes airline for growth amid robust travel demand Emirates has officially unveiled the very first Airbus A350-900 to join its fleet at an exclusive event showcase in Dubai. The event, led by Sir Tim Clark, President Emirates Airline in the presence of His Excellency Abdulla Bin Touq Al Marri, UAE Minister of Economy, was attended by VIP guests, aerospace partners, government officials and dignitaries, members of the media, as well as aviation enthusiasts.…
Published in The News, on Nov 28th, 2024, By AFP IAEA’s resolution urged Iran to “fulfil its legal obligations” under Non-Proliferation Treaty (NPT) ratified in 1970 TEHRAN: Iran will hold crucial talks on Friday with France, Germany, and the United Kingdom to discuss its nuclear programme. The vital meeting comes after the three European nations, along with the United States, decided to get Tehran censured by the UN nuclear watchdog. Last week’s chiding prompted a defiant response from Tehran, but its officials have since signalled willingness to engage with other parties ahead of the return of US President-elect Donald Trump, whose…
Published in Saudi gazette, on Nov 28th, 2024, KYIV — Russia attacked Ukraine early in the morning on Thursday with scores of missiles and drones launched across the entire country, targeting the energy grid and leaving up to 1 million Ukrainians without electricity. Explosions were reported in multiple cities, including Kyiv, Kharkiv, Mykolayiv, Odesa, Lutsk and Rivne in an attack that lasted more than nine and a half hours. Ukrainian Air Defence reported that 176 missiles and drones out of 188 have been intercepted. President Volodymyr Zelensky said Moscow has specifically targeted Ukraine’s energy infrastructure. He said several regions have been…
Published in Reuters, on Nov 27th, 2024, By Humeyra Pamuk WASHINGTON, Nov 27 (Reuters) – The Biden administration is pushing ahead with a $680 million arms sales package to Israel, a U.S. official familiar with the plan said on Wednesday, even as a U.S.-brokered ceasefire in Lebanon between Israel and Lebanese armed group Hezbollah has come into effect. The package, which was first reported by the Financial Times, includes thousands of joint direct attack munition kits (JDAMs) and hundreds of small-diameter bombs, according to the official, speaking on condition of anonymity. The news comes less than a day after the ceasefire…
Published in Aljazeera, on Nov 27th, 2024, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu says Israel urged the court to suspend the warrants against him and former Defence Minister Yoav Gallant pending the outcome of the appeal. Israel has told the International Criminal Court that it will appeal against arrest warrants for Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and former Defence Minister Yoav Gallant over their actions in the war on Gaza, as France said it believes Netanyahu could have “immunity” from the warrant. Netanyahu’s office said on Wednesday that Israel also urged the ICC to suspend the warrants against him and Gallant for alleged “war crimes”…
Published in Reuters, on Nov 27th, 2024, By David Brunnstrom Nov 27 (Reuters) – Russia’s deputy U.N. ambassador said on Wednesday any decision by President-elect Donald Trump’s incoming administration to cut support for Ukraine would be a “death sentence” for the Ukrainian army, while accusing Kyiv of trying to drag NATO countries into direct conflict with Russia in the meantime. Speaking to the U.N. Security Council, Dmitry Polyanskiy accused the outgoing Biden administration of trying through its increased support to Ukraine to create a “mess, both in Russia and with the new team in the White House.” Polyanskiy said Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy…
Published in Aljazeera, on Nov 27th, 2024, Thousands of displaced people set out to return to their homes in southern Lebanon, but others heed Israeli warnings to stay out. A ceasefire between Israel and Hezbollah has appeared to hold on its first day as thousands of displaced people set out to return to their homes in southern Lebanon despite Israel’s military announcing restrictions on movement in the area. Israeli military spokesperson Avichay Adraee said on X on Wednesday that residents would be barred from travelling south of the Litani River, about 30km (20 miles) from the Israeli border, from 5pm…
Published in The Nation, on Nov 27th, 2024, Azhar Khan FIFA, in partnership with Qatar, has unveiled a groundbreaking $50 million FIFA World Cup 2022 Legacy Fund aimed at delivering transformative social programs worldwide. Collaborating with global organizations such as the World Health Organization (WHO), World Trade Organization (WTO), and UNHCR, the UN Refugee Agency, this initiative will extend the impact of the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022 beyond football, addressing critical global issues including refugee support, public health, education, and football development. The Legacy Fund, announced during a high-profile virtual event featuring FIFA President Gianni Infantino and leaders from…
Published in Geo News, on Nov 26th, 2024, By Faizan Lakhani Board members will discuss various options including adopting hybrid model, say sources ICC meeting to be held online on Nov 29. Various options to come under discussion. Board inclined toward hybrid model: sources. KARACHI: The International Cricket Council (ICC) on Tuesday called a board meeting on November 29 to deliberate on the future of the ICC Champions Trophy 2025, scheduled to be hosted in Pakistan in February-March next year. The meeting will be held online, and all board members have been provided with the agenda, an ICC spokesperson confirmed. According…
by Anna Fleck, Indian billionaire Gautam Adani, chairperson of the Adani Group, is currently embroiled in a fraud scandal. Last week, U.S. federal prosecutors accused him of being involved in a $265 million bribery scheme to secure solar energy projects in India as well as misleading investors and lenders. The Adani Group has denied accusations. According to Forbes’ Real-Time Billionaires List, as of November 25, 62-year-old Gautam Adani is the second richest man in Asia. He is the chairperson of the Adani Group, a conglomerate that deals with businesses exporting and importing raw materials and finished goods, including coal trading, mining, oil and…
by Katharina Buchholz The U.S. international adoption landscape has changed fundamentally in the past years as fewer and fewer children arrive in the country as adoptees. This is the result of many nations changing their stance on allowing or supporting outgoing overseas adoption. Recently, the practice of uprooting children has been called into question. Additionally, countries have increasingly been wanting to show that they can handle sensitive social issues like adoption locally. The biggest recent change came from China, which in 2018 still sent almost 1,500 children to the U.S. as adoptees. In the fiscal year of 2023, this had fallen to…
by Felix Richter, The release of ChatGPT in the fall of 2022 and the many AI-powered tools that followed in its tracks have sparked an excitement around artificial intelligence that sometimes feels like a 21st century gold rush. “AI is transforming every industry, company and country,” Jensen Huang, founder and CEO of Nvidia said this week. And while big tech companies invest billions of dollars to build the infrastructure necessary to run large language models, not everybody is convinced that AI will be as transformational as many people currently believe – especially from a consumer perspective. According to Statista Consumer Insights, there’s still a…
This World Children’s Day, English Biscuit Manufacturers (EBM) shared a heartwarming message from the nation’s favorite brand, Peek Freans Sooper. This campaign emphasizes the need for equality in the simple joys that brighten a child’s world. Aligned with this year’s global theme, the initiative serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of fairness for children in all aspects of life, both big and small. Shahzain Munir, Executive Director of EBM, shared a heartfelt message, stating, “Even the simplest acts can shape the lives of our children. This idea is encapsulated in the campaign message, ‘Aik Jaisee Bachpan Ki Seedhi…
Zindigi Prize, Pakistan’s first homegrown entrepreneurial community by Zindigi – powered by JS Bank, takes its first step onto the global stage with inaugural regionals in Kenya, empowering changemakers worldwide. This milestone event took place at St. Paul’s University, Limuru Campus, where over 50 startups from various universities across Kenya participated in a day filled with inspiring pitches, engaging speeches, and vibrant social performances. The event was graced by distinguished guests, including Dr. Abraham, Deputy Vice Chancellor of Academics at St. Paul’s University, and Mr. Lenox Omondi, CEO and Founder of Ecobana, recognized as one of Africa’s leading startups. Their…
Cheezious, A proud Pakistani brand is setting a new benchmark for delivery excellence with the official launch of its #AaRahaHuMein campaign. The brand is proud to announce its commitment to faster, more reliable delivery with the release of its new Digital Video Commercial (DVC), showcasing its operational upgrades. With the launch of this campaign, Cheezious is reaffirming its commitment to delivering exceptional customer satisfaction. Customers can place their orders until 3 AM, and Cheezy Riders will deliver their food directly to their doorsteps with an assurance of efficiency and speedy delivery. This initiative underscores Cheezious dedication to staying ahead of…
The Chairman of National Business Group Pakistan, the President of the Pakistan Businessmen and Intellectuals Forum, the President of All Karachi Industrial Alliance, the Chairman of the FPCCI Advisory Board, and the President and former provincial minister, Mian Zahid Hussain, said on Monday that restrictions on the Internet to deal with few hundred miscreants is a wrong move which is against the national interests. Slow Internet is damaging hundreds of IT companies, banks, e-commerce companies, and millions of freelancer youth, and the country is losing a lot of foreign exchange, he said. Mian Zahid Hussain said that the political parties…
The Aga Khan University Hospital (AKUH) organized a public awareness session to mark World Diabetes Day, offering valuable information and resources to help manage and prevent diabetes. The three-hour session featured expert talks, interactive activities, demonstrations, and a Q&A with AKUH specialists. The panel emphasised the critical role of exercise, a balanced diet, and routine check-ups in managing diabetes—a condition that increases the risk of several serious health complications. They highlighted how regular consultations and tests can aid in early detection and treatment. Guests availed themselves of free health screenings, including blood glucose, cholesterol, HbA1c, blood pressure, and measurements of…
Alibaba.com, a leading platform for global business-to-business (B2B) e-commerce, hosted the Key E-Commerce Leader Award (KEL) Grand Finale in Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam. The event celebrated the achievements and contributions of outstanding B2B e-commerce sellers from across South and Southeast Asia, reflecting Alibaba.com’s commitment to fostering the growth of small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in the global e-commerce sector. The finale featured ten top sellers from Pakistan, Vietnam, India, Thailand, Malaysia, and Indonesia. Alibaba.com announced the top three awardees: Ms. Xuan Hai Yen (Proline Vietnam), Ms. Natasha Gogna (Shri Krishna International, India), and Mr. Tayyub Hussnain (Norwich Streetwear, Pakistan).…
In 2025 profitability, asset quality to boost GCC banking sector resilience: S&P The banking sector in the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) region has been doing well. Banks have reported strong profitability and asset quality indicators in addition to strong capitalization and sufficient liquidity. This performance is expected to continue next year despite lower interest rates potentially impacting growth. However, an unanticipated, severe increase in geopolitical risk or a major decline in oil prices could weigh on the GCC banking sector’s creditworthiness. In its latest GCC Banking Sector Outlook 2025, S&P Global Ratings says that while it does not expect a…
Government unveils climate finance strategy Pakistan introduced its first National Climate Finance Strategy (NCFS) at the COP29 conference in Baku, on Thursday, outlining a framework to mobilise climate finance for adaptation and mitigation. Federal Finance Minister Muhammad Aurangzeb and Romina Khurshid Alam, Prime Minister’s Climate Change Coordinator, unveiled the strategy, which aims to scale climate-related investments, attract international finance, and enhance domestic financial systems, according to a press statement released by the Ministry of Climate Change & Environmental Coordination. Aurangzeb described NCFS as a roadmap to secure climate funding and said it is built on principles of transparency, accountability, and…
NASTP and Khazana Cloud Establish Pakistan’s First Hyperscaler Cloud Solution: The NASTP, Special Technology Zone, is thrilled to announce a Strategic agreement with Khazana Cloud to launch a Tier 3 Data Centre powered by Huawei. This pioneering facility will deliver advanced cloud and AI solutions, tailored to the unique needs of public as well as private sector clients across Pakistan.With Huawei’s leading-edge technology and robust support, this Data Center will operate at peak efficiency, ensuring reliability and security for all clients. NASTP and Khazana are proud to bring these transformative capabilities to Pakistan, empowering organizations with cutting-edge cloud solutions that streamline operations,…
Management Association of Pakistan holds 39th Corporate Excellence Awards “The MAP’s Corporate Excellence Awards have set a benchmark for recognizing organizations that strive to achieve higher standards of governance, ethical business practices and sustained growth.” This was stated by the Sindh Chief Minister, Murad Ali Shah while addressing the 39th Corporate Excellence Awards (CEA) ceremony organized by the Management Association of Pakistan (MAP). He added, “MAP’s leadership in advocating for these principles has helped foster a culture of transparency, accountability and integrity within Pakistan’s business community.” The Chief Minister commended the awards for establishing a framework where organizations operate under…
Kibor rate is the average interest rate at which term deposits are offered between prime banks in the Pakistani wholesale money market or interbank market. KIBOR as a benchmark, to encourage transparency and improve management of the market risk undertaken by banks. Kibor Rates In Pakistan TENOR BID OFFER 1 – Week 14.95 15.45 2 – Week 14.94 15.44 1 – Month 14.87 15.37 3 – Month 13.54 13.79 6 – Month 13.38 13.63 9 – Month 13.16 13.66 1 – Year 13.07 13.57 Last Updated on 18th Nov 2024 Source: SBP
by Anna Fleck, According to OECD data, South Korea has the most work to do in order to close the gender wage gap. A male worker in South Korea out-earned his female counterparts by 29.3 percent in 2023. The problem is also highly evident in other Asian countries, for example Japan. In 2023, the wage gap between the sexes was 22.0 percent there. Even though things are slightly better in North America, the U.S. still has a wage gap of around 16 percent. Limited data was reported for 2023, however in 2022 the OECD average for the year stood at around 11…
by Florian Zandt Toyota generated $298.3 billion in revenues between April 2023 and March 2024, more than double the amount of Honda, the Japanese public company with the second-highest revenue in the last fiscal year, according to sales data aggregated by Nikkei. While tech and tech-adjacent companies from Japan traditionally aren’t as highly valued as their Chinese and U.S. counterparts, Toyota’s financial performance earned the corporation a spot among the 50 publicly traded companies with the highest market capitalization. Coming in 44th puts Toyota ahead of firms like Nestlé, McDonald’s or Shell. The market power of Toyota is also apparent in the fact…
by Thomas Hinton, Travel and tourism was already a fast-growing sector before the pandemic temporarily, albeit drastically, stunted its seemingly unstoppable progress. For nine consecutive years prior to 2019, the growth of the global travel and tourism sector exceeded that of the global economy and now it is already back on track. In 2024 the sector is forecast to pick up pace again contributing 3.6% to global gross value added over the next five years, more than even the information and financial services sectors. The strength of this travel and tourism momentum is made even more apparent when we observe the stark contrast…
by Felix Richter Despite inflation cooling to the lowest level in more than three years in recent months, there’s no way around the fact that consumer prices in the United States have risen sharply over the past three years, as several factors came together to form a perfect storm of inflationary pressures. Since February 2020, the last month before the Covid-19 pandemic disrupted the global economy, the Consumer Price Index for All Urban Consumers (CPI-U) has increased 21.7 percent. Assuming the Fed’s targeted 2-percent inflation rate, prices would only have increased by 9.7 percent during that period, illustrating how severe the recent inflation…
Need for Immediate Action to Tackle Pakistan’s Economic and Environmental Challenges The 8th Edition of THE FUTURE SUMMIT concluded in Karachi with a packed hall at a local hotel in Karachi. On the inaugural day of the summit, Farrukh Amin, CEO of Unity Foods Limited, and Muhammad Azfar Ahsan, Founder & Chairman of Nutshell Group, welcomed the audience. The opening session was a compelling lineup of leaders and policymakers addressing the theme “What Matters Now” in a rapidly evolving world. Senator Muhammad Aurangzeb, Federal Minister for Finance & Revenue, discussed Pakistan’s macroeconomic journey, noting, “We have seen encouraging progress in…
Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) has the official Airline Partner for IDEAS 2024 (Arms for Peace), the premier defence exhibition in Pakistan. As part of this strategic partnership with Badar Expo Solutions, PIA will showcase its support by displaying the IDEAS 2024 insignia on six of its aircraft and Airline crew Vehicles Notably, this includes the Boeing 777-LR (Registration No. AP-BGZ), a renowned aircraft that once held the world record for the longest non-stop commercial flight. The selection of this iconic aircraft to carry the IDEAS logo underscores a commitment to highlighting Pakistan’s technological achievements and promoting its global presence through…
Improving psychological well-being and behavior among Pakistan’s workforce can positively impact economic growth by enhancing productivity, reducing absenteeism, and fostering innovation. In 2024, integrating mental health support and fostering positive psychological behavior can be particularly influential in Pakistan’s context, where economic pressures, job insecurity, and social stresses are prevalent. How improved psychological well-being can contribute to economic growth is being as follows: Increased Productivity: Mental health plays a critical role in workplace productivity. Addressing issues like stress, burnout, and anxiety can help employees focus better, work more efficiently, and be more resilient in handling work pressures. Research shows that employees…
The automobile industry in Pakistan has experienced significant growth and transformation over the past few decades. Emerging as one of the key sectors of the economy, it plays a crucial role in job creation, technological advancement, and the overall industrial landscape of the country. Historical Background The roots of the automobile industry in Pakistan date back to the 1950s, with the establishment of assembly plants for foreign manufacturers. The first notable vehicle assembly plant was set up in 1953, marking the beginning of local automobile production. Over the years, various international brands have partnered with local firms, leading to the…
Leveraging personal assets can play a significant role in reducing poverty in Pakistan in 2024 by empowering individuals and households to create sustainable income streams, build resilience, and improve their economic stability. Personal assets, both tangible (such as land, livestock, small businesses) and intangible (such as skills, education, and social networks), can be harnessed through targeted initiatives that enable people to utilize what they already possess to lift themselves out of poverty. Here are some key ways personal assets can contribute to poverty reduction in Pakistan: Microfinance and Access to Credit: Providing access to small loans and credit facilities allows…
Unity Foods Limited and Nutshell Conferences Group are jointly organizing the 8th Edition of THE FUTURE SUMMIT (TFS), Pakistan’s largest corporate event, in strategic partnership with Faysal Bank Limited and Overseas Investors Chamber of Commerce and Industry (OICCI). The event will be held in the financial capital of Pakistan, Karachi, on November 6-7, 2024. THE FUTURE SUMMIT is a platform where industry experts, thought leaders, and innovators from across the globe unite to reshape economic dynamics and strategic landscapes. Senator Muhammad Aurangzeb, Federal Minister for Finance & Revenue; Muhammad Ali, Minister of State for Power, Government of Pakistan; Dr. Bakheet…
Enjoy some winter sun and use your Emirates boarding pass to unlock five months of exclusive offers at hundreds of locations in Dubai and the UAE Emirates has today announced the return of its popular My Emirates Pass, allowing passengers to enjoy exclusive offers at hundreds of locations in Dubai and the UAE. Starting from 1st November 2024 to 31st March 2025, My Emirates Pass enables customers to use their boarding pass to enjoy incredible discounts at restaurants, family days out, tranquil spa treatments, luxury shopping outlets, private pools and much more. Emirates customers flying to or through Dubai can simply…
The Sindh Government, in partnership with ChildLife Foundation, has achieved a significant milestone of reducing the province’s infant mortality rate to half as compared to the rest of Pakistan. This progress highlights the Sindh government’s dedication to improving healthcare for children through innovative public-private partnership programs. A recent study conducted by the U.S-based PALISI Global Health network (2021-2022) evaluated pediatric ERs at Civil Hospital, Karachi and Sheikh Zayed Children Hospital, Larkana. The study found mortality rate for critically ill children (above 1 month) in these hospitals at 1.2%, comparable with the best private hospital in Pakistan. The finding underscores the…
Indus Motor Company (IMC) proudly participates as the Diamond Sponsor of the 2024 Pakistan Auto Show (PAPS), being held from 25th to 27th October in Lahore. A key highlight during this year’s Pakistan Auto Show (PAPS) 2024 at IMC’s stand, is their exploded view of their Corolla Cross, the first-ever, ‘Make in Pakistan’, Hybrid Electric Vehicle (HEV) that boasts the highest-ever local content. The event was attended by IMC’s Senior Director Manufacturing, Mr. Makoto Kubota and Director Manufacturing, Mr. Wali Muhammad Khan. With their continued focus of “Make in Pakistan,” IMC showcases its rigorous commitment to local manufacturing, sustainability, and…
Institute of Business Administration (IBA), Karachi hosted a launch ceremony for Women Leadership Forum (WLF), in collaboration with IBA-ORIC & IBA Leadership Club, at the IBA City Campus. The event attracted participants from various industries, including NGOs, banking, finance, health, and academia. Commencing the event, Dr. Irum Saba, Associate Professor, School of Business Studies (IBA-SBS) and Founder, WLF, delivered the opening remarks, followed by a warm welcome from Dr. S Akbar Zaidi, Executive Director, IBA Karachi. Ms. Sultana Siddiqui, President of Hum Network, graced the occasion as Special Guest, and Ms. Shazia Marri, Member of the National Assembly, as Chief Guest,…
The Overseas Investors Chamber of Commerce and Industry (OICCI) organized a unique event, the “Dining in the Dark Experience,” in collaboration with Khaas Foodz Kitchen (KFK) on Thursday. This initiative brought together OICCI’s member companies and foreign investors to emphasize the importance of disability inclusion and address the challenges persons with disabilities (PWDs) face in corporate environments. The highlight of the event was a sensory dining experience, where attendees were blindfolded and led through the meal cooked by visually impaired chefs from KFK, a social enterprise committed to training and employing individuals with disabilities. This unique setting allowed participants to…
Zong, Pakistan’s leading cellular and digital services provider, proudly announces its achievement of the prestigious TIA-942-C Rated-3 Certification for its Data Center located at Zong HQ, Islamabad. This certification is a testament of Zong’s unwavering commitment to be an excellent information services and technology innovation company of Pakistan. The TIA-942 is an internationally recognized standard for Data Center infrastructure, and the Rated-3 certification highlights Zong’s dedication to offering state-of-the-art solutions to its customers. This achievement demonstrates that Zong’s Data Center adheres to strict criteria for system redundancy, uptime, and disaster resilience, reinforcing the company’s position as a leader in the…
Explore Ali Jahangir Siddiqui’s vision for enhancing cross-border trade & economic connectivity between Pakistan and Central Asia through strategic initiatives. Pakistan, with a globalized economy, highly requires cross border trade, especially in this era, as Pakistan is to accelerate its economic interface with its neighboring regions. Ali Jahangir Siddiqui, while holding different leadership positions, has been vocal about the fact that Pakistan requires it to develop better ties for trade, especially resource-rich Central Asia. Involvement in forums like WEF speaks volumes of the strategic efforts needed to be done to strengthen Pakistan’s position as a regional trading hub and attract…
Written By Grace Chang Chief Executive Officer, Kintsugi Japan has long suffered from a culture of overwork and in extreme cases people have been at risk of ‘karoshi’ meaning ‘death by overwork’. Consequently, the country is now taking critical steps to change its culture of extreme work pressure. Here’s how innovation and technology are helping to drive this transformation and support workers’ wellbeing and mental health. In 1969, a 29-year-old man died of a stroke while working in the delivery department of Japan’s largest newspaper. As the tragic details of his death emerged, it became clear that gruelling work conditions had…
Written By Samuel J. White, York St John University and Philippe B. Wilson, York St John University With the popularity of CleanTok on social media, we’re constantly being reminded about how dirty everything around us is. But while you might feel you should disinfect every surface in your home or send your child off to school with antibacterial gels so their hands stay clean, science actually shows us that being exposed to a bit of dirt can be good for kids’ health. Evidence suggests that exposure to the microbes in dirt might actually help children develop stronger immune systems –…
Written By Caterina Sarfatti Managing Director, C40 Cities Climate Leadership Group Emma Blunt Senior Business Manager, Inclusive Climate Action, C40 Cities Climate Leadership Group This article is part of:Centre for Urban Transformation Globally, a shortage of green skills is delaying climate action, especially in cities. Climate action can create a third more jobs than business-as-usual approaches but green jobs must be accessible to those in most need. By prioritizing partnerships with businesses, unions and communities, we can close the skills gap and deliver decent jobs. There are many reasons for delays in climate action. One of them, especially in our cities,…
Written By Stefanie Broszeit, Plymouth Marine Laboratory Nature protection, conservation and restoration is “not a trivial matter but key to human survival,” according to scientists quoted in a 2005 UN report. To demonstrate this, they developed the concept of “ecosystem services” – the benefits that people derive from nature. Over the next 20 years, this concept has been in constant development to reflect our growing understanding of how ecosystems work and how we benefit from them. For many people, it feels wrong to take a human-centred view on nature. But for governments and conservation organisations, this concept is a useful…
Written By Abdulaziz Almaslukh Senior Researcher, Saudi Information Technology Company (SITE) Social engineering cyber attacks are characterized by being automated, adaptive and tailored to their targets. AI has been used to carry out social engineering cyber attacks to defraud people and companies of millions of dollars. Countering this requires a coordinated approach with cooperation across sectors at its heart. Generative AI (GenAI) and Large Language Models (LLM) in particular, have taken the world by storm. The technology has shown tremendous potential to automate various day-to-day tasks, ranging from basic IT helpdesk requests to sophisticated user behaviour analysis. This task automation is…
Written By Alessandro Valentini Lead, Innovative Finance for Nature, World Economic Forum This article is part of: Centre for Nature and Climate The annual biodiversity funding gap to protect nature is estimated at $700 billion. A new report from the World Economic Forum offer businesses guidance on how to approach nature finance. Innovative nature financing instruments like biodiversity credits are gaining in popularity. Since the adoption of the Global Biodiversity Framework (GBF) in 2022, increasing resources from the private sector have been allocated to bridge the $700 billion annual financing gap on nature. This is an encouraging trend, which should come in addition…
Written By James Leather Director, Transport Sector Office, Asian Development Bank Sudhir Gota Co-Team Lead, Asian Transport Outlook, Asia Development Bank (ADB) As the climate crisis worsens, Asia and the Pacific must tackle rapidly rising transport emissions, which is the second-fastest growing source of emissions in the region. The current status of Asian transport creates a good opportunity for the region’s countries to leapfrog older technologies to create more sustainable transport options. There are six steps Asian countries could take to embed sustainable transport into their Nationally Determined Contributions to improve the world’s chances of beating climate change. Time is…
Written By Dorit Dor Chief Technology Officer, Check Point Software Technologies Complexity in cybersecurity reduces visibility and increases vulnerability to human error and attacks. Consolidating security tools into a unified platform is crucial for eliminating blind spots and improving efficiency. AI enhances threat detection and remediation but transparency and clear policies are essential for harnessing its power effectively. Complexity has fascinated me throughout my career. From algorithms in computer science to the threat landscape in cybersecurity, complexity and its resulting variance create fascinating challenges. But the reality is complexity is the enemy of security. Fundamentally, complexity in cybersecurity means a lack…
Published in Reuters, on Oct 24th, 2024, By John Irish and Maya Gebeily PARIS, Oct 24 (Reuters) – World powers raised $1 billion to ease the humanitarian crisis in Lebanon and support its army at a conference in Paris on Thursday, with France’s foreign minister urging Israel to heed the message to cease fire and focus on diplomacy. Some 70 government delegations and 15 international organisations met in Paris to help Lebanon, but a low-level U.S. presence and its looming election dimmed prospects for a swift halt to fighting. “The message (for Israel) is simple: Cease fire!” France’s Foreign Minister Jean-Noel Barrot told…
Published in Geo News, on Oct 23rd, 2024, By AFP “Saudi Arabia has asked that we organise joint exercises in Red Sea,” says Iranian navy commander Saudi Arabia has not confirmed whether it will hold exercises with Iran. Delegations from both countries to hold consultations: Iranian commander. Both countries resume relations after severed diplomatic ties in 2016. Iran and Saudi Arabia are planning to conduct joint military exercises in the Red Sea, according to an Iranian report not confirmed by Riyadh, in what would be a first for the regional heavyweights. The two countries, which have long backed opposing sides…
Published in AlJazeera, on Oct 23rd, 2024, Hezbollah confirms death of Hashem Safieddine, who had been widely expected to be chosen as the group’s next leader. Israeli warplanes have attacked multiple buildings in Lebanon’s southern coastal city of Tyre, sending up large clouds of black smoke, as the Lebanese armed group Hezbollah confirmed that a top official widely expected to be the group’s next leader had been killed in an Israeli strike. There were no reports of casualties in Tyre, where the Israeli military had issued evacuation warnings ahead of the strikes. The Lebanese state-run National News Agency reported on…
Published in The Guardian, on Oct 20th, 2024, By Raf Nicholson New Zealand secured a maiden T20 World Cup title, defeating South Africa by 32 runs after a mammoth effort from the all-rounder Melie Kerr, who was named player of the tournament. After top-scoring with 43 from 38 balls, Kerr was rendered barely able to walk because of cramp brought on by the Dubai heat, but nevertheless she snatched the wickets of Laura Wolvaardt and Anneke Bosch at both ends of the 10th over, turning the match on its head. It is New Zealand’s first global trophy since 2000, and…
Published in Reuters, on Oct 23rd, 2024, By Krishn Kaushik and Ethan Wang NEW DELHI/BEIJING, Oct 23 (Reuters) – Chinese President Xi Jinping and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi agreed on Wednesday to boost communication and cooperation between their countries and resolve conflicts to help improve ties that were damaged by a deadly military clash in 2020. The two leaders met on the sidelines of the BRICS summit in Russia for their first formal talks in five years, signalling that ties between the Asian giants have begun to recover from the diplomatic rift caused by the clash along their disputed Himalayan frontier. India and China,…
Published in Aljazeera, on Oct 24th, 2024, Turkey says it hit targets linked to the Kurdistan Workers’ Party, which it blames for the attack on aerospace and defence company TUSAS. Turkey’s Air Force has struck Kurdish targets in Iraq and Syria in apparent retaliation for an attack on a key state-run defence company that killed five people and wounded more than 20. On Thursday, the Ministry of National Defence said 47 targets were “destroyed” in the aerial offensive on Wednesday, without providing details on the locations that were hit. It said “all kinds of precautions” were taken to prevent civilian harm. end…
Published in Saudi Gazette, on Oct 24th, 2024, By Steve Rosenberg KAZAN — There aren’t many world leaders who’ve been in power for 30 years. Alexander Lukashenko of Belarus has been accused of stealing elections, crushing dissent and dismantling democracy. The UK, the EU and the US do not recognize him as the legitimate president of Belarus. There’s something else you should know about him: if there’s any leader who knows Vladimir Putin inside out, it is Lukashenko. The two men have known each other for years and meet regularly. Alexander Lukashenko met me on the sidelines of the Brics…
Published in Geo News, on Oct 22nd, 2024, By Web Desk Ibrahim earns pro card in Men’s Physique category in global tournament organised by World Fitness Federation Pakistani bodybuilder Rameez Ibrahim brought home the gold he earned in the Mr Universe 2024 competition organised by the World Fitness Federation in Las Vegas, USA. It is worth noting that, alongside Pakistan, 44 other countries participated in the global event. The other countries included Australia, South Africa, Zimbabwe, Canada, Argentina, UK, USA, Philippines, Japan, Korea, China, India, Iran, Afghanistan, Iraq, Malaysia, Singapore, Thailand, Vietnam, Myanmar, New Zealand, Spain, Italy, Germany, France, Malta Greece,…
by Anna Fleck 47 media professionals have been killed in 2024 so far due to their journalistic activities, according to the Reporters Without Borders (RSF) database. By far the deadliest place for journalists last year was in the Palestinian territories, where 14 deaths have already been counted in the first ten months of the year. Following some way behind are Pakistan with six deaths currently reported there, five in Bangladesh, four in Mexico, three in each of Sudan, Myanmar and Iraq, as well as two deaths in Ukraine and Colombia, respectively. A single journalist was also killed in each of the following…
by Felix Richter, When leaders of the newly expanded BRICS group meet in Kazan, Russia, this week, one of the talking points will be Russia’s push for an alternative international payment platform that would reduce the U.S. dollar’s dominance in global trade and international payments and better shield countries like Russia from sanctions in the future. In reaction to Russia’s invasion of Ukraine in February 2022, a number of Russian banks were banned from SWIFT as part of the wide-ranging international sanctions imposed against the country, making it harder but not impossible for Russia to take part in international trade and…
by Anna Fleck, Global growth is expected to remain “stable yet underwhelming” in 2024 and 2025, at a steady 3.2 percent, according to the International Monetary Fund (IMF) October World Economic Outlook, published Tuesday. As the following chart shows, India, China, Russia and the United States are forecast to see contractions in their economic output between 2024 and 2025. In Russia, this change is expected to be most pronounced, dropping 2.3 percentage points. Meanwhile, 2025 is forecast to be an improved year for growth in the United Kingdom, Japan and Germany. There have been several notable revisions since the July 2024 World…
by Katharina Buchholz, In the year 2030, Millennials or even Gen Z members are expected to be contributing the largest share of consumer spending in many countries in Africa, Asia and also some in Latin America. This is according to a report by World Data lab, Nielsen and GfK. By 2030, Gen Z will be the biggest-spending generation in much of Sub-Saharan Africa, India and Pakistan as well as Indonesia, the Philippines, Mexico and Peru, among others. Millennials meanwhile will be the largest spenders, for example, in China, Russia, much of North Africa and the Middle East as well as South Africa, Australia, New…
This clarification is being issued in context to the installation charges of Conical Baffles in consumers’ gas bills. Pursuant to the meeting chaired by Prime Minister of Pakistan on the progress of energy conservation measures on January 05, 2023, Government of Pakistan through Ministry of Energy (Petroleum Division) advised both Sui Companies to install conical baffles in the existing geysers at the customer premises and declared this as MANDATORY. Accordingly, petition was filed to OGRA for amendment in domestic and commercial consumer’s contract for installation of conical baffle. OGRA after due process and public consultation approved the amendment in contract…
In Pakistan’s economy, Saudi Arabia to invest $2bn Saudi investment minister Khalid Al Falih said bilateral trade with Pakistan has surged by 80 percent to $5.4 billion from $3 billion in 2019 Saudi Arabia and Pakistan have signed 27 memorandums of understanding totalling $2 billion. The investments will target industry, agriculture, information technology, food, education, mining and minerals, health, petroleum and energy, Dawn newspaper reported. The MoUs were signed in the presence of Pakistan’s prime minister Shehbaz Sharif, chief of army staff general Asim Munir and Saudi Arabia’s investment minister Khalid Al Falih. Sharif assured the Saudi investors that the…
Poultry farmers seek help Poultry farmers across Pakistan are facing hard times as rising input costs, especially poultry feed, are becoming unbearable for them. Many farmers, particularly those engaged in small-scale farming, are bound to shut down their businesses, which will impact not only their livelihood but also the local economy in their areas. “While the poultry industry holds tremendous potential, it faces several hurdles that hinder its progress,” said Waseem Malik, a medium-scale poultry farmer from central Punjab. Rising prices of poultry feed, largely driven by volatile international markets for soybean and maize, have increased the production cost for…