Domestic cement sales dipped 17 per cent to 20 million tonnes in the first half of the current fiscal year from 24m tonnes in the same period last year reflecting the construction slowdown due to persisting unfavourable economic conditions. All Pakistan Cement Manufacturers Association (APCMA) spokesperson on Wednesday said that builders were reluctant to launch new projects while the routine
Global oil prices plunged on Wednesday over China demand concerns and European gas prices sank to their lowest levels since November 2021 as mild winter weather reduced demand. Crude prices extended losses from a day earlier, diving around five per cent, over concern about demand in the world’s biggest oil importer China, amid a steep rise in Covid infections in the country. At around 1600 G
The recently announced energy conservation measures may turn into an occupational nightmare for thousands of riders engaged in the food and grocery delivery business nationwide. The National Energy Efficiency and Conservation Plan envisages the closure of commercial markets by 8:30pm every evening. Riders say their incomes will nosedive if the cut-off is applied to the food delivery business as
An uncontrollable upward trend in prices of wheat flour and chicken has left consumers high and dry as rates witnessed a fresh jump over the last few days. While prices of various flour varieties shot up to Rs140-160 per kg, that of live poultry reached Rs420 per kg amid lack of any official check on sellers who are raising prices at their whims. Millers now quote the rates of flour no. 2.5
The Healthcare Devices Association (HDA) has warned the relevant authorities of disruption of medical and surgical treatment facilities across the country after the recent restriction making registration with the Drug Regulatory Authority of Pakistan (Drap) mandatory for the import of medical and surgical equipment. “Drap has not been able to make decisions on most of the registration applica