Syngenta offers free-of-cost distribution to 15,000 wheat farmers in Sindh

Syngenta Pakistan, a leading agriculture innovation and technology company that provides crop protection, seeds, and digital services to millions of Pakistani farmers, has joined hands with the Government of Sindh for a groundbreaking initiative to support wheat farmers in the province with free-of-cost distribution of their leading herbicide product to 15,000 growers. This program promises to enhance wheat cultivation and maximize yields across 45,000 acres of farmland.
The Country General Manager of Syngenta Pakistan, Zeeshan Hasib Baig stated that: “Syngenta Pakistan is strongly committed to support our growers and to promote food security of Pakistan. In this context, we have partnered with the Government of Sindh to empower the wheat growers during the upcoming season for higher productivity and profitability. This wheat product is a state-of-the-art herbicide, designed to deliver exceptional weed control, enabling farmers to achieve optimal yields with a single application. By equipping farmers with cutting-edge solutions, we aim to boost wheat production, reduce weed-related losses, and contribute to a food secure Pakistan.”
The Director General of Sindh Government’s Department of Agriculture Extension “Munir Ahmed Jumani” said: “Wheat farming has great potential in Sindh, and it is a pleasure to see Syngenta coming up with this gracious offer to distribute Free of Cost Herbicide among the farmers. Our Agriculture Extension Department will extend every possible support to enable the farmers to maximize productivity, while reducing the cost of wheat cultivation to ensure food security.”
Dubai Islamic Bank Partners with Nestlé Professional to Enhance its Customer Experience
Dubai Islamic Bank Pakistan Limited has partnered with Nestlé Professional to offer customers a selection of hot beverages at its Wajaha- Priority Banking Lounge. This collaboration enables visitors to enjoy hot beverage of their choice, be it NESCAFÉ or traditional NESTEA Cardamom, Karak & Kashmiri chai creating a more pleasant and relaxing experience. Dubai Islamic Bank currently operates 12 Wajaha- Priority Banking Lounge across various cities, enhancing convenience and comfort for its valued clientele.
The announcement was made during an MOU signing ceremony, attended by representatives of both organizations. The collaboration underscores a shared commitment to improving customer experience and fostering meaningful connections.
“Dubai Islamic Bank is proud to set a benchmark for customer service through its Wajaha- Priority Banking Lounges,” said Mr. Junaid Ahmed, CEO, Dubai Islamic Bank Pakistan. “By partnering with Nestlé Professional, we aim to elevate the experience we offer, providing not just financial solutions but also an atmosphere that reflects our commitment to customer well-being and satisfaction.” He further added.
Jason Avanceña Chief Executive Officer, Nestlé Pakistan stated, “We are pleased to collaborate with Dubai Islamic Bank Pakistan in bringing Nestlé Professional’s selection of warm drinks to their customers. This partnership aligns with our mission to enhance everyday moments for people.”
This new offering is part of Dubai Islamic Bank Pakistan’s ongoing efforts to enrich the Wajaha Priority Lounge experience, combining leisure with premium banking services to better serve its valued clientele.
Corporate sector boosts Pakistan’s agriculture growth
The corporate and financial sector of Pakistan are investing to develop the agriculture sector. This view emerged at the launch of The State of Pakistan’s Agriculture 2024 report by Pakistan Business Council (PBC) and Pakistan Agricultural Coalition (PAC) in an event at National Foods Limited Corporate Head Office in Karachi the other day.
Ehsan Malik, CEO of PBC, in his opening remarks said that agriculture sector has the greatest potential to contribute to economic and food security and uplift the rural population. “This report highlights how the corporate sector is playing an impactful role in developing the agriculture sector,” said Ehsan.
Kazim Saeed, CEO of PAC, said the wherever we see international class agriculture in Pakistan, we often find a leading corporate player working directly with farmers. This report documents how corporate and financial players are bringing capital, technology, and expertise to the agriculture sector for growth and prosperity.
“These prospects merit replication and scaling up for the growth of Pakistan’s agriculture,” said Kazim, adding that many companies are adopting practices that reduce environmental impact, such as regenerative agriculture, eco-friendly production methods, and efficient resource use. The event features presentations by the companies whose projects have been documented as case studies in the report.
Abrar Hasan, Global CEO National Foods Limited (NFL), applauded the efforts of PBC and PAC as well as other corporate sector players who are driving the agri sector towards growth. Talking about NFL’s case study, he said that National Foods is committed to self-sufficiency
to increase exports as well as digitize farming in Pakistan, ultimately maintaining a robust value chain. Our products and our partnerships are a testament to the positive impact of technology. The “Seed to Table” initiative exemplifies our commitment to growth beyond borders, expanding to international markets as well as enabling the national economy through exports. NFL’s intervention to develop the tomato value chain and create import substitution for tomato paste proved fruitful for the company and the country.”
“We can create potential for exports by developing the value chain for tomato paste, as tomatoes have a high export potential compared to other crops” said Abrar, adding that the NFL intervention presents a strong example of how to respond to the sharp depreciation of the rupee in recent years.
Adil Sattar from K&N’s said that over the last six decades, K&N’s has been at the forefront of poultry breeding, the introduction of new technologies in poultry farming, poultry processing, and new approaches in retailing of poultry-based consumer products for domestic and global markets while maintaining food safety and Halal certification by hand slaughtering rather than stunning despite the cost and effort involved.
Faraz Zafar, Investment Director AlKaram, talked about what will become Pakistan’s largest shrimp farm. Al-Karam’s Dhabeji Aqua Foods is will be a shrimp farm on 400 acres, which will feature 300 half acre ponds in Sindh’s District Thatta. AlKaram has also invested in companies for cultivation and drone-based services. Faisal Iftikhar, CEO AquaHatch, cited the vision of Garibsons and Jaffer Group for investing in a fish seed and shrimp seed business to support the farmers of high-value fish and shrimp across Pakistan.
Taimur Malik of Drawdown Farm by Thal Industries highlighted the importance of regenerative agriculture for protecting Pakistan’s soils, water, and biodiversity.
Amer Aziz, CEO HBL Zarai Services spoke about how to harness the corporate sector to
serve farmers and M Aminuddin, CEO TPL Insurance, talked about protecting livelihoods of farmers through crop insurance.
Tax shortfalls may further hurt the looming economy
The federal government’s failure to expand its tax net and curb tax evasion has resulted in a tax shortfall that may widen to around Rs 400 billion by the end of December.
According to reports, this tax shortfall could further increase by Rs 50–60 billion in December alone, following the Federal Board of Revenue’s (FBR) failure to meet its target for the July-November period which fell short by Rs 341 billion despite imposing record taxes exceeding Rs 1.5 trillion in the budget.
This alarming decline underscores the growing financial strain on Pakistan’s economy. Experts warn of an urgent need for collective responsibility to expedite measures against tax evasion, particularly in the tobacco sector, which remains a significant source of revenue leakage.
Minister of State for Finance and Revenue, Ali Pervaiz Malik, stated during an event hosted by the Institute of Public Opinion and Research (IPOR) that the FBR has been directed to control evasion estimated at Rs300 billion to Rs350 billion within the illicit cigarette trade. It is important to note that these figures do not account for smuggled cigarettes, which could inflate the total by two to three times.
According to an IPOR report, out of 264 surveyed cigarette brands, only 19 fully complied with Track and Trace (TTS) regime requirements, which mandate the use of TTS stamps. Non-compliant brands accounted for 58% of the market, comprising locally manufactured duty-not-paid (DNP) brands (65%) and smuggled brands (35%), with violations ranging from missing TTS stamps to non-adherence to pricing or health warning regulations.
Moreover, the excessive consumption of cigarettes among youth is a pressing concern. The affordability of cheap, illicit cigarettes significantly contributes to this issue, making prevention efforts increasingly challenging. However, with strong enforcement of anti-smuggling laws and transparent monitoring, these risks can be minimized.
VEON Group injects $15m in Mobilink Bank to fuel growth and tech advancement
Global digital operator VEON Group reaffirms its confidence in the growth potential of Pakistan’s microfinance sector and Mobilink Bank by investing USD 15 million in fresh capital to drive the bank’s strategic ambitions. The capital injection will empower Mobilink Bank to expand its offerings in Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprise (MSME) financing, explore Islamic banking, and accelerate its ongoing transition into a technologically advanced, future-ready digital bank.
As Pakistan’s leading digital microfinance bank, Mobilink Bank is committed to fostering financial inclusion and meeting the evolving needs of its diverse customer base. The investment comes at a pivotal time for the banking industry, as the State Bank of Pakistan (SBP) has substantially lowered its policy rate, showcasing its proactive role as a regulator in fostering economic stability and growth. Mobilink Bank will utilize these funds to optimize its operational capabilities, expand its outreach, and introduce cutting-edge digital products and services to its individual and enterprise customers.
With a strong focus on underserved and unbanked segments, Mobilink Bank strives to catalyze economic activity and provide accessible financial solutions to fuel socio-economic development. VEON Group’s investment also highlights its strategic vision of fostering digital innovation and supporting Mobilink Bank’s mission to be a key player in Pakistan’s financial ecosystem. This commitment aligns with VEON’s broader objectives of driving technological advancements and empowering communities through sustainable economic development.
Welcoming the investment, Chairman Mobilink Bank & CEO Jazz, Aamir Ibrahim said, “This capital infusion of USD 15 million by VEON underscores their steadfast confidence in Mobilink Bank’s vision and trajectory. It empowers us to further expand our portfolio, driving growth in MSME financing, Islamic banking, and technology-driven operations. Together, we are fostering digital readiness and financial inclusion, ensuring that MMBL continues to play a pivotal role in shaping a progressive and inclusive financial landscape in Pakistan.”
Haaris Mahmood Chaudhary, Interim CEO Mobilink Bank, shared, “Veon’s investment signifies the solid confidence our parent company places in Mobilink Bank’s capability to lead the fintech revolution in Pakistan. The timing of this strategic investment is fitting as Pakistan’s economy is in a revival phase, and the banking industry anticipates enhanced activity in the wake of a significant reduction in policy rates by the SBP. This investment will be pivotal in further advancing our strategic goals, promoting MSME growth, expanding into Islamic banking, and enhancing our digital capabilities to strengthen our position as a future-ready digital bank.”
VEON’s investment heralds a transformative era for Mobilink Bank, reinforcing its mission to advance financial inclusion and social mobility. With over 20 million monthly active users and a vast network of 400,000+ touchpoints, the bank champions inclusivity, technological innovation, and customer-centricity, besides a robust commitment to socio-economic and environmental progress.
Mobilink Bank is part of the VEON group, a global digital operator that provides converged connectivity and digital services to nearly 160 million customers in six dynamic markets that are home to 7% of the world’s population.
Domestic cement despatches declined by 4.76% during December 2024
According to the data released by All Pakistan Cement Manufacturers Association (APCMA), local cement despatches by the industry during the month of December 2024 were 3.370 million tons compared to 3.539 million tons in December 2023, showing a decline of 4.76%. Exports despatches however increased by 49.35% as the volumes increased from 524,656 tons in December 2023 to 783,550 tons in December 2024.
Total Cement despatches during December 2024 were 4.154 million tons against 4.063 million Tons despatched during the same month of last fiscal year, showing an increase of 2.23%.
In December 2024, North based cement mills despatched 2.9 million tons cement showing a decline of 3.71% against 3.012 million tons despatches in December 2023. South based mills despatched 1.254 million tons cement during December 2024 that was 19.25% more compared to the despatches of 1.052 million tons during December 2023.
North based cement mills despatched 2.786 million tons cement in domestic markets in December 2024 showing a decline of 5.11% against 2.936 million tons despatches in December 2023. South based mills despatched 584,684 tons cement in local markets during December 2024 that was also 3.04% less compared to the despatches of 603,010 during December 2023.
Exports from North based mills increased by 50.18% as the quantities increased from 75,967 tons in December 2023 to 114,089 tons in December 2024. Exports from South also increased by 49.20% to 669,461 tons in December 2024 from 448,689 tons during the same month last year.
During the first six months of current fiscal year, total cement despatches (domestic and exports) were 22.933 million tons that is 3.97% lower than 23.881 million tons despatched during the corresponding period of last fiscal year. Domestic despatches during this period were 18.122 million tons against 20.228 million tons during same period last year showing a reduction of 10.41%. Export despatches were 31.69% more as the volumes increased to 4.810 million tons during the first six months of current fiscal year compared to 3.653 million tons exports done during same period of last fiscal year.
North based Mills despatched 15.185 million tons cement domestically during the first six months of current fiscal year showing a reduction of 9.46% than cement despatches of 16.772 million tons during July-December 2023. Exports from North increased by 28.81% percent to 992,413 tons during July-December 2024 compared with 770,470 tons exported during the same period last year. Total despatches by North based Mills reduced by 7.78% to 16.177 million tons during first six months of current financial year from 17.542 million tons during same period of last financial year.
Domestic despatches by South based Mills during July-December 2024 were 2.937 million tons showing reduction of 15.02% over 3.456 million tons cement despatched during the same period of last fiscal year. Exports from South increased by 32.47% to 3.817 million tons during July-December 2024 compared with 2.882 million tons exported during the same period last year. Total despatches by South based Mills increased by 6.57% to 6.755 million tons during first six months of current financial year from 6.339 million tons during same period of last financial year.
A spokesman of APCMA expressed grave concerns over the continuous decline in local cement demand. He emphasized that local off takeplays a major role in the industry’s as well as economic growth. “Reduction of duties and taxes by the government can bring the cost of the commodity down which can boost the sales and enable the sector to use its idle capacity,” he added.
Businesses fully support Uraan Pakistan: Mian Zahid
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 January 6 that the business community across the country unconditionally supports Prime Minister Shahbaz Sharif’s national development plan.
After pulling the country out of the economic turmoil and tackling the threat of default, the Prime Minister and his team have inaugurated a five-year national economic plan with a new determination, which has been named “Uraan Pakistan.” This plan has given hope to the public and the business community, he said.
Talking to the business community, the veteran business leader said that this plan is the Prime Minister’s New Year’s gift and a guarantee of a bright future.
He added that the plan includes points regarding export promotion, environment, energy, equality, and empowerment, with exports being the most important.
The business leader said the government wants sustainable economic growth by promoting exports. At the same time, the size of the economy will be increased to one trillion dollars.
Mian Zahid Hussain further said that national unity and harmony are indispensable for the success of this plan, and everyone’s consensus is necessary for its completion.
He remarked that to make the country an economic power, cooperation between the federal government, provinces, and all partners is required, as is learning from the mistakes of the past so that they are not repeated.
The Prime Minister, while mentioning the requirements for the success of “Uraan Pakistan,” said that the elite will have to make some sacrifices to move the country forward, and cheap electricity and a reduction in tax rates are necessary for sustainable development.
Now, we have to move forward with new thinking and concrete steps. At the same time, political parties should align their politics with the national interest.
Mian Zahid Hussain said that Allah Almighty has blessed Pakistan with immense resources. The Pakistani people are very talented and intelligent, and we have experts in every field essential for a country’s development.
However, our people’s skills are not utilized, and many experts leave the country due to a lack of opportunities.
He said that due to wrong policies and a politics of chaos, the resource-rich country is forced to beg repeatedly, which has become an obstacle to its development.
Mian Zahid Hussain further said that only the enemies of the country can disagree with the views expressed by the Prime Minister on the launch of this project. It has become necessary to remove the shortcomings he has identified, for which, instead of statements, planning, and implementation will have to be resorted to.
NBP with LCWU to Revolutionise Fee Collection
National Bank of Pakistan has partnered with Lahore College for Women University (LCWU) to implement a fee collection system on an aggregation model powered by 1-Link. This collaboration introduces a seamless and secure fee payment process, offering students unparalleled convenience and accessibility. With this partnership, students can now pay their fees through NBP’s Digital App or any other bank across Pakistan. NBP has positioned itself as the master collector, supported by an efficient and transparent reporting system that ensures real-time, accurate financial insights for LCWU.
The agreement was led by Mr. Farhan Durrani, Senior Vice President of Digital Solutions at NBP, along with senior representatives from the Retail Banking Group, including Mr. Tanveer Sheikh, Regional Head, Lahore East, and Mr. Rashid Anwar Alvi, Branch Manager of Jail Road, NBP. Representing LCWU, Vice Chancellor Prof. Dr. Shagufta Naz, along with her team, attended the event to celebrate this significant milestone. The partnership offers key benefits to LCWU and its students, including the convenience of fee payments anytime, anywhere, with no additional charges. The advanced reporting system enhances institutional transparency and efficiency, while the initiative supports the digital transformation of Pakistan’s education sector.
NBP’s existing customers can download the Mobile APP and register by following the below-mentioned steps:
Step 1: Login to your NBP Digital Mobile Banking APP.
Step 2: Navigate to ” Bill Payments ”
Step 3: Select ” 1 Bill ”
Step 4: Enter your ” 1 Bill ID ”
Step 5: Review your details for accuracy.
Step 6: Tap “Pay” and you’re done!
New customers can easily open a Digital Account with NBP by downloading the Mobile APP and following the steps “Open Account”.
Step 1: Click ” Open Account ” option at the login screen of NBP Digital App.
Step 2: Enter your Mobile Number, Email, Account Purpose, and other basic information for personal identification.
Step 3: Follow the guidelines to scan and upload the CNIC, Signatures, and Proof of Income.
Step 4: Get a Tracking ID on completion of Digital Account Opening Request.
JS Investments Launches Lahore’s First Digital Wealth Centre
JS Investments, Pakistan’s premier asset management company, has launched Lahore’s first Digital Wealth Centre in DHA Phase 6, marking a transformative step in the country’s wealth management sector.
The Digital Wealth Centre is designed to empower clients with seamless, self-service financial tools and expert guidance. Visitors will experience an advanced, user-friendly ecosystem where they can explore JS Investments’ diverse product suite through interactive screens and engage with goal-based and risk-based investment planning.
In addition, JS Investments introduces a ground-breaking digital account opening solution tailored for Separately Managed Account clients. This process streamlines the opening of bank, brokerage, and investment accounts by connecting them through one powerful unified platform.
Speaking at the launch, Iffat Mankani, CEO of JS Investments, emphasized the company’s commitment to redefining wealth management in Pakistan: “The launch of Lahore’s first Digital Wealth Centre reflects our vision to make wealth management accessible, innovative, and client-centric. We aim to empower individuals to achieve their financial aspirations through personalized, tech-driven solutions that bring efficiency and confidence to their investment journeys.”
JS Investments warmly invites prospective clients, media, and industry partners to experience the future of wealth management at the new Digital Wealth Centre in Lahore.
Global political and economic scene may deteriorate in 2025: Mian Zahid Hussain
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 global political and economic landscape is more likely to deteriorate than improve in 2025.
He said that the idea that the situation would improve after the end of the Cold War proved wrong, and various conflicts have increased instead of decreasing.
Mian Zahid Hussain said that after the end of the Cold War, millions of lives have been lost. At the same time, billions of people have been affected.
Talking to the business community, the veteran business leader said that the change in the balance of power will become more evident during the New Year. Israel and the United States will turn to Iran after controlling Gaza, Hamas, Syria, and Yemen.
The business leader noted that the West’s economic dominance would further decrease, and the anti-Western camp would become stronger.
During this time, instability, uncertainty, and political tension will increase, environmental risks and losses will grow, and the war in Ukraine and the Middle East will continue. The situation in the Middle East may even become tense.
Mian Zahid Hussain said the newly elected US president had stated his policy on ending both wars. Still, Ukraine will suffer more than Russia. At the same time, Israel will benefit in the Middle East, so perhaps the parties will not accept the Trump formula.
Mian Zahid Hussain said that the newly elected US president wants European countries to bear the burden of the Ukraine war instead of the United States. In contrast, European countries do not have enough resources to do so, which will likely affect relations between Europe and the United States.
He said that the newly elected US president had started explaining his policies even before assuming power, which has caused a wave of concern worldwide and increased instability.
In the present situation, the US allies and rivals are equally worried. Concerns are being expressed about the political and economic relations between the US and China, which will affect the whole world.
Mian Zahid Hussain said that, on the one hand, militancy is ongoing in different regions of the world, while on the other hand, fears of a global trade war are growing. During the New Year, trade and investment in more friendly countries will become more subject to politics, and protectionism may also give rise to new blocs.
A large number of Chinese companies will move to other countries to avoid US trade measures, which will have a positive impact on these countries’ economies. Pakistan can also
play its part in this changing trade situation, but it will have to correct its affairs because Chinese investors view Pakistan’s internal situation with concern.
Mian Zahid Hussain further said that democracy is under threat all over the world, tolerance and moderation are disappearing, political fundamentalism is growing, democratic rights and public freedoms are being denied, authoritarian rule is becoming popular, and lawlessness is increasing. The root of all these problems is the failure of political governments to meet the people’s expectations.