FOR some months now, the government has been working on a new industrial policy that, according to Finance Minister Muhammad Aurangzeb, will encourage pro-business conditions in order to boost the pace of industrialisation. Speaking at a workshop organised by the Securities and Exchange Commission of Pakistan and the Pakistan Banks Association in Karachi recently, Mr Aurangzeb said the policy w
Pakistan’s small and medium enterprises (SMEs) are the backbone of our economy. With over 5.2 million businesses spread across manufacturing, services, and trade, SMEs contribute nearly 40 per cent to the GDP and employ more than 80pc of the non-agricultural labour force. From the furniture makers of Gujrat to the tech startups of Karachi, these businesses reflect the diversity and potential of Pa
As Pakistan engages with the US on the details of a trade deal, one that includes partial tariff relief — reducing rates from 29 per cent to 19pc — and explores deeper commercial ties, including potential higher US imports and investment in key sectors, the private sector has responded with cautious optimism. The rate reduction signifies a significant reversal of the tariff hike imposed on Apri
The government on Tuesday announced that Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif’s upcoming visit to China later this month will mark the formal launch of the second phase of the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC-II), focused on industrial cooperation, after a delay of about five years. “Prime minister’s upcoming visit will mark the formal launch of CPEC Phase-II, with both sides expected to set c
Torrential rains on Tuesday severely disrupted industrial operations across Karachi, with many factories unable to resume afternoon and night shifts due to urban flooding, road blockages, and transport shortages. The rains also delayed export shipments as goods carriers were unable to move due to flooded roads and overflowing nullahs. The industrial sector, which typically operates in three