Indus Motor reports strong growth in 1hfy25
Indus Motor Company Limited has announced its financial results for the half-year FY 24-25 ended December 31, 2024, showcasing strong growth amidst signs of economic recovery in Pakistan.
The Company’s net sales turnover for the six-month period ended December 31, 2024, surged to Rs. 84.88 billion, up from Rs. 50.91 billion in the corresponding period last year. This significant increase was primarily driven by higher sales volumes of CKD and CBU vehicles, alongside improvements in cost efficiencies and localization efforts.
During the period under review, the Company posted a substantial increase in Profit After Tax (PAT), rising to Rs. 9.96 billion, as compared to Rs. 4.96 billion in the same period last year. The impressive profitability growth is attributed to increased volumes, lower input material costs, favorable exchange rate movements, and optimized cost management initiatives. Additional earnings from investments also played a key role in strengthening the Company’s financial position.
Ali Asghar Jamali, Chief Executive Officer of IMC, commented, “This half of FY 2024-25 has been marked by a stable economic outlook, improved trade balance, and lower inflation, which have positively impacted the auto industry. While these developments are encouraging, challenges remain due to high taxation and duties that continue to affect vehicle affordability. We urge the government to introduce policy measures such as reducing import duties, rationalise the depreciation rates on used car imports, and ease the restrictions on auto financing to facilitate market expansion and further boost local manufacturing.”
The Company’s Earnings Per Share (EPS) for the half-year stood at Rs. 126.69, as compared to Rs. 63.07 in the same period last year. In light of the positive performance, the Board of Directors has declared a second interim cash dividend of Rs. 37 per share, compared to Rs. 13.20 per share in the corresponding period last year.
Additionally, the Board of Directors has appointed Mr. Giri Venkatesh as a Director, following the resignation of Mr. Akihiro Murakami, effective February 27, 2025. The Company expresses gratitude to Mr. Murakami for his contributions and extends a warm welcome to Mr. Venkatesh.
Looking ahead, the Company remains committed to delivering high-quality products and services, enhancing customer satisfaction, and supporting the development of Pakistan’s automotive industry.
Standard Chartered boosts investment in its Futuremakers Women in Tech programme across Africa, the Middle East and Pakistan
Three-year initiative will equip women-led start-ups with essential skills, financing, and networks to drive long-term impact.
Standard Chartered today announced a partnership with Village Capital to continue and expand its Futuremakers Women in Tech Accelerator across Africa, the Middle East, and Pakistan.
Part of Futuremakers by Standard Chartered (Futuremakers), the Bank’s global youth economic empowerment initiative for disadvantaged young people, and with funding from the Standard Chartered Foundation, Futuremakers Women in Tech Accelerator will provide specialised training, catalytic funding, and access to a global network of peers, finance providers, industry leaders, and ecosystem partners.
Over three years, 400 women entrepreneurs will receive support to build thriving microbusinesses, create jobs, and drive lasting social and environmental impact. The initiative aims to:
- Provide more than 32 catalytic grants totalling almost USD1.9m
- Enable and support over 1,200 jobs.
Delivered in collaboration with local expert implementing partners, the Accelerator will be available across 12 of Standard Chartered’s markets, continuing in Bahrain, Botswana, Ghana, Kenya, Nigeria, Pakistan, Saudi Arabia*, South Africa*, UAE, and Zambia, and expanding to two new markets – Uganda and Egypt.
Tanuj Kapilashrami, Chief Strategy and Talent Officer at Standard Chartered, said: “Empowering women is critical to economic growth, and central to our stand of lifting participation by unleashing the financial potential of women and small businesses. We believe equitable access to funding and resources is essential to fostering innovation and driving meaningful social impact – whether it be through our Futuremakers philanthropic programmes, our banking propositions such as the SC Women’s International Network, or the work we do towards supporting a diverse supplier base.
Through the Futuremakers Women in Tech Accelerator, we are addressing the systemic challenges women microbusiness owners face, creating pathways for them to scale their businesses which will, in turn, help drive positive change in their communities.”
Highlighting the partnership’s impact, Rachel Crawford, Chief Strategy and Innovation Officer at Village Capital, said: “Our partnership with Standard Chartered is a gamechanger for women-led start-ups across Africa, the Middle East, and Pakistan. By providing critical resources, catalytic capital, and market-level support, we aim to drive inclusive economic growth and ensure that women entrepreneurs can scale their businesses and impact communities at a transformative level.”
Commenting on the impact of the programme, a Women in Tech alumna, Priscilla, CEO and Co-Founder of Rhea, a microbusiness based in Kenya, said: “The Women in Tech programme has been a gamechanger for my company. It not only provided access to crucial capital, but also a start-up support system that is tailored for women entrepreneurs to ensure they can align their businesses for impact. I’ve gained the financial tools, mentorship, and network needed to scale my business with confidence.”
Launching Futuremakers Women in Tech
Applications for the 2025 Futuremakers Women in Tech Accelerator will open in late April. Participants will receive investment-readiness training, personalised development plans, and expert mentorship, working with advisors and industry leaders to strengthen their business models and access networking opportunities. More than USD600K in grant funding for entrepreneurs will be distributed annually across markets.
Since launching more than a decade ago, Women in Tech has helped more than 4,000 women across 17 of Standard Chartered’s markets. Today’s news follows the announcement that Futuremakers Women in Tech is continuing in the US, with applications already underway.
Futuremakers Women in Tech is one of several programmes that aim to tackle inequality and empower disadvantaged young people. Since launching in 2019, Futuremakers has enabled and supported more than 88,900 jobs.
*Funding for Futuremakers Women in Tech in Saudi Arabia and South Africa is from Standard Chartered not Standard Chartered Foundation.
DP World delivers the beyond boundaries initiative to Pakistan
Pakistan cricket legend Wasim Akram unveiled the repurposed shipping container in Karachi in the final week of the ICC Champions Trophy.
Global logistics provider DP World has continued to deliver the Beyond Boundaries Initiative by unveiling a repurposed shipping container to local beneficiaries at the National Bank Stadium in Karachi.
Legendary Pakistan cricketer Wasim Akram helped launch the eleventh container on the eve of the ICC Champions Trophy semi-finals alongside Junaid Zamir, Chief Executive Officer of DP World’s Qasim International Container Terminal, and Nadeem Khan, Academies Director at the Pakistan Cricket Board, by distributing cricket kits to beneficiaries from several academies. The repurposed container, with an in-built changing room and scoreboard, will be permanently based at National Bank Stadium in Karachi, providing much needed facilities to the communities that utilise the grounds for training and matches.
Junaid Zamir said: “DP World is delighted to bring the Beyond Boundaries Initiative to Pakistan, a country with a deep passion for cricket, amidst the backdrop of the ICC Champions Trophy – the first ICC event held in the region since 1996. We are delighted to work with both our partner, the ICC, as well as the Pakistan Cricket Board, to make a meaningful difference to communities where the cricket kits and container will have a big impact. From supporting the ICC by delivering broadcast equipment for television coverage of the tournament, through to the movement of this container to Pakistan for the launch of this initiative, our global logistics solutions are helping to bring the game to every level.”
Through the latest stop on the initiative’s journey, DP World has now delivered 2,750 cricket kits to grassroots clubs across seven countries, continuing to fulfil a promise that has seen DP World pledge ten cricket kits for every 100 runs scored in ICC tournaments.
Wasim Akram added: “Pakistan is a cricketing nation with a proud history, producing players that have thrilled audiences worldwide. However, with the kit and equipment needed to access the sport, it can be expensive and ultimately prohibitive to the potential superstars of tomorrow. I know first-hand the importance of owning high quality cricket kits, that you can call your own, so I look forward to seeing how this initiative will benefit young players across this country and beyond”.
The repurposed container unveiled today has been delivered by DP World’s end-to-end logistics capabilities. Produced in Dubai, the container embarked on a three-day journey of more than 1,000km’s, through DP World’s Jebel Ali hub before arriving at Qasim International Container Terminal (QICT) in Karachi. From there, the container was moved by a DP World flatbed truck to the National Bank Stadium in Karachi.
Each container is adorned with a unique mural designed by a local artist, reflecting the community that the facility will serve, with the Karachi-born Ibrahim Gailani producing the artwork for the Karachi container.
Anurag Dahiya, Chief Commercial Officer at International Cricket Council, said: “As this thrilling ICC Champions Trophy reaches its climax, we are delighted to see DP World extend its support for grassroots talent to Pakistan. Having witnessed firsthand the initiative’s impact globally, we welcomed the opportunity to connect DP World with our colleagues at the Pakistan Cricket Board to identify beneficiaries that need the support the most, helping to grow the game for everyone”.
Sumair Ahmad Syed, Chief Operating Officer, PCB and ICC Champions Trophy 2025 Tournament Director, said: “The DP World Beyond Boundaries Initiative aligns with our vision of strengthening grassroots cricket in Pakistan. By expanding access to quality equipment and resources, it will support young cricketers in refining their skills and progressing through the ranks. At the Pakistan Cricket Board, we are committed to developing future talent, and initiatives like these play a valuable role in inspiring and enabling the next generation. We appreciate DP World’s commitment to the sport and its efforts to make a lasting impact at the grassroots level”.
Throughout the ICC Champions Trophy, DP World has continued the kits-for-runs programme that has been present at other ICC tournaments since 2023. So far in this year’s tournament, DP World has pledged over 400 cricket kits to grassroots cricket communities.
Mobilink Bank wins prestigious GLOMO Award for ‘The Invisible Heirs’ Campaign
Pakistan’s leading digital microfinance institution, Mobilink Bank, has solidified its standing as a trailblazer in women’s financial inclusion and economic empowerment by winning the ‘CMO Marketing Campaign’ Award at the GSMA Global Mobile (GLOMO) Awards during Mobile World Congress 2025. The award recognizes Mobilink Bank’s groundbreaking campaign – The Invisible Heirs, which addresses the systemic denial of women’s inheritance rights in Pakistan and empowers them with innovative tools to claim what is lawfully theirs. This marks a historic milestone as Pakistan’s first-ever win in the prestigious GLOMO Awards under the CMO Marketing Campaign category.
The Invisible Heirs campaign aims to tackle gender-based financial inequality in Pakistan. At its core is an inheritance calculator integrated into Mobilink Bank’s consumer app – Dost, which allows women to calculate their rightful share of inheritance easily. The campaign also featured a powerful video highlighting women’s emotional and societal challenges in securing their inheritance, sparking a nationwide conversation and inspiring action.
Aamir Ibrahim, CEO Jazz, Chairman Mobilink Bank and Group Executive Committee Member of VEON, remarked: “This award is a testament to our unwavering commitment to driving meaningful societal change through innovation. The Invisible Heirs campaign not only shines a light on a deeply rooted issue but also provides a tangible solution that empowers women to take control of their financial futures. This recognition underscores VEON’s mission to create transformative digital services that uplift communities and foster equality.”
President and CEO, Mobilink Bank Haaris Mahmood Chaudhary, said, “We are thrilled to win the GLOMO Award for ‘The Invisible Heirs’ campaign, which is a bold step toward dismantling barriers that have long hindered women’s financial independence. By equipping women with the tools to claim their rightful inheritance, we are not only changing lives but also reshaping the narrative around gender equality in Pakistan. As a forward-looking, future-ready institution, this recognition inspires us to continue pushing boundaries in fostering long term emancipation of women through technology-driven solutions.”
This victory marks another milestone in Mobilink Bank’s mission to leverage fintech for financial inclusion and gender equality. Earlier, the Invisible Heirs campaign bagged the ‘Digital Nations Video Creativity Award’ at GSMA’s M360 Asia-Pacific event in 2024. Additionally, Mobilink Bank was recently named among the ‘Top 10 Most Inclusive Organizations of the Year’ at the GDIEB Awards 2025 while topping the State Bank of Pakistan’s Banking on Equality scorecard for two years in a row.
PQFTL unveils innovative ‘Lifetime Kafalat Plan’ for retirement security
Pak-Qatar Family Takaful Limited (PQFTL), a leading provider of Family Takaful solutions and part of Pak-Qatar Group, the country’s premier and pioneer Islamic financial services group, has written history by unveiling an innovative lifetime guaranteed pension plan under the name “Lifetime Kafalat Plan”, that is first-of-its-kind in Pakistan.
The product’s launch event ceremony was held in Karachi, whereby product details were unveiled in the presence of representatives from SECP, Trade & Business Associations representatives, Business Leaders and leading Islamic scholars.
This is the first time that any company in Pakistan has addressed the issue of a lifetime pension, with a guaranteed income, based on customer requirements, utilizing advanced algorithms that define current contributions on a monthly basis, thereby making Pension income accessible to all Pakistani’s. This launch, reinforced PQFTL’s position as a pioneer in the industry and will enable Pakistanis with the liberty of financial planning for their retirement.
Addressing the ceremony, through a video message Chairman SECP, Mr Akif Saeed, lauded the efforts of Pak-Qatar Family Takaful and congratulated the entire team on launch of unique product.
In his speech, the chief guest, Mr. Mujtaba Ahmed Lodhi, Commissioner Insurance, SECP highlighted the demand for structured retirement solutions and need for extended financial security. He also outlined SECP’s support for innovation in terms of coming up with new and unique products.
Mr. Waqas Ahmad, CEO of Pak-Qatar Family Takaful Limited
, expressed his delight on this momentous occasion and said: ” Lifetime Kafalat Plan is an innovative and first of its kind, product that provides for smart financial planning for retirement with a promise of guaranteed lifetime pension. Our strategic approach not only enhances our end-to-end service delivery but also aligns with our vision to provide innovative and customer-centric financial solutions.”
During the event, the Chairman Shariah Board (PQFTL & PQGTL), Mufti Hassaan Kaleem, highlighted the importance of Islamic financial services and the products key features, and in his closing remarks Mr. Zahid Awan (Founder & Member Board of Directors – Pak-Qatar Group), thanked SECP for their support. The event was also attended by Mr. Said Gul (Founder & Member Board of Directors – Pak-Qatar Group) and Mr. Kamran Saleem (Member Board of Directors – Pak-Qatar Group) along with Senior Management.
BYD officially commence vehicle deliveries in Pakistan
BYD, the world’s largest manufacturer of New Energy Vehicles (NEVs) in partnership with Mega Motor Company (MMC) has commenced vehicle deliveries in Pakistan marking a major milestone in the country’s transition toward sustainable mobility. Starting today, customers in Karachi, Lahore, and Islamabad will begin to receive their much-anticipated BYD vehicles, signifying the brand’s strong commitment to the local market. BYD & MMC aim to deliver up to 100 vehicles within the first 48 hours of starting operations.
MMC has set up BYD’s Experience & Care centers at key locations in Islamabad, Lahore and Karachi, providing customers with a premium experience to explore and engage with the brand’s cutting-edge New Energy Vehicle technology.
The launch of these centers and the rollout of SEAL & ATTO 3 reflects BYD and MMC’s confidence in Pakistan’s rapidly evolving automotive landscape. As demand for New Energy Vehicles (NEVs) continues to rise, BYD & MMC aim to expand its footprint in the country by opening a total of 15 centers in 2025 further enhancing accessibility to sustainable mobility solutions.
Speaking on the occasion, Lei Jian, Country head of BYD Pakistan, said: “It is an honor to embark on this crucial development chapter in Pakistan. BYD has long been dedicated to
fulfilling people’s aspirations for a better life through technological innovation. We firmly believe that BYD’s new energy vehicles and technologies are destined to make even greater contributions to Pakistan’s green development journey.
Danish Khaliq, VP Sales & Strategy of Mega Motor Company, stated: “We are thrilled to begin vehicle deliveries across Pakistan. This marks the beginning of an exciting journey for BYD and our customers, as we introduce world-class NEV technology to drive Pakistan toward a cleaner and more sustainable future.”
With this significant step, BYD continues to reinforce its global mission of revolutionizing the automotive industry by providing innovative and eco-friendly transportation solutions.
BankIslami posts record 24% surge in profit, strengthens market position with expansion and digital transformation
BankIslami has posted a record-breaking 24.4% rise in pre-tax profit to Rs. 25.5 billion for the year ending December 31, 2024, reinforcing its stature in Pakistan’s Islamic banking sector. Despite economic volatility and shifting regulatory conditions, net profit rose 7.1% to Rs. 11.8 billion.
Upholding its mission of “Saving Humanity from Riba,” the Bank announced a total dividend of Rs. 2.75 per share, comprising a final 12.5% cash dividend alongside a previously declared 15% interim payout.
BankIslami’s balance sheet expanded steadily, with total deposits rising 7% year-on-year to Rs. 559 billion. A notable 18.9% surge in savings deposits and a 9.2% uptick in current deposits pushed the CASA ratio to 65.7%, underscoring strong liquidity and depositor confidence. Gross financing jumped 28.8% to Rs. 327.2 billion, while investments grew 9.9% to Rs. 345.1 billion, reflecting a measured growth strategy. Meanwhile, non-fund-based income (NFI) increased by Rs. 1.3 billion, lifting its share of total income from 7.6% to 9%, broadening revenue streams.
The Bank’s risk management efforts further strengthened its financial position, with the infection ratio improving from 9% to 7.4%, driven by proactive credit risk management and recoveries. At the same time, the Bank’s Capital Adequacy Ratio (CAR) stood at 24.11%, well above the 11.50% regulatory requirement, highlighting its financial strength and stability.
Over the past year, BankIslami launched Pakistan’s largest Islamic banking marketing campaign, amplifying brand presence and customer engagement. The Bank also spearheaded a major technological overhaul, with the launch of its new Internet and Mobile Banking applications as well as revamping its core banking system to enhance operational efficiency and digital capabilities.
With 540 branches nationwide, BankIslami is expanding accessibility while investing heavily in digital transformation. Looking ahead, BankIslami is poised to deepen its digital footprint, enhance operational efficiencies, and expand its financing and investment portfolios. With robust risk governance and a customer-centric strategy, the Bank remains well-positioned for sustained growth in an evolving financial landscape.
Dawlance CEO discusses investment experience and business environment at Pak-Turk Business Forum
The Pakistan-Türkiye Business Forum was recently held in Islamabad, while the President of Turkey – H.E. Recep Tayyip Erdoğan was visiting Pakistan. The Prime Minister of Pakistan – Mr. Shehbaz Sharif also attended this event, along with leading corporate heads, like the Chief Executive Officer of Dawlance, a subsidiary of Beko, one of the largest Turkish investments in Pakistan.
The President of Türkiye – Mr. Erdogan acknowledged the role of “Pakistan-Türkiye Business Forum”, as it is helping in the growth of economic cooperation between the two countries and to pave the way for increased trade and investment. He recognized Pakistan’s strategic location, skilled workforce, and dynamic young population. These factors enable the nation to offer immense opportunities for businesses to expand, innovate, and thrive.
The CEO of Dawlance, Mr. Umar Ahsan Khan, highlighted the company’s expansive business ventures in Pakistan and its remarkable growth over the past eight years since its acquisition by the Turkish multinational, Beko. He stated: “Beko remains deeply committed to investing in Pakistan, not only by bringing advanced technology and industrial expertise but also by fostering innovation and excellence in local manufacturing. With a strong focus on research and development (R&D), cutting-edge production techniques, and global best practices, we are elevating Pakistan’s manufacturing sector to international standards. As a result, the Dawlance high-quality ‘Made in Pakistan’ appliances now meet world-class benchmarks in performance and energy efficiency—strengthening our leadership in the domestic market while also expanding our footprint in global exports.”
Addressing the delegates, Pakistan’s Prime Minister underscored the country’s investment potential, stating that the presence of foreign direct investors in Pakistan stands as a strong testament to the nation’s promising investment landscape. To further attract new Foreign Direct Investment (FDI), the government remains committed to ensuring the timely resolution of challenges faced by investors. He stated that his government’s focus is on fostering policy consistency, strengthening economic documentation, enhancing tax governance, advancing infrastructure development, and creating a business-friendly environment that prioritizes ease of doing business.
The Pak-Turk Business Forum provided a significant platform for strengthening economic ties between the two brotherly nations, as the experts at this high profiled panel discussion, highlighted Pakistan’s vast potential for growth and the critical role of foreign investment in driving economic progress and industrial development. Both countries look forward to further strengthening long term business partnerships with valuable socio-economic contributions that foster sustainable growth and prosperity on a mass scale.
Cement domestic sales continues to suffer
Domestic cement despatches that, after many months of negative momentum, showed a m-o-m (month over month) increase by 11.64% during January 2025, didn’t picked up as expected during February 2025.
According to the data released by All Pakistan Cement Manufacturers Association (APCMA), local cement despatches by the industry during the month of February 2025 were 3.065 million tons compared to 2.869 million tons in February 2024, showing a marginal increase of 6.82%. Exports despatches, however, increased by 34.30% as the volumes jumped from 395,935 tons in February 2024 to 531,736 tons in February 2025. Total cement despatches during February 2025 were 3.596 million tons against 3.265 million tons despatched during the same month of last fiscal year, showing an increase of 10.15%.
In February 2025, North based cement mills despatched 2.556 million tons cement showing an increase of 5.06% against 2.433 million tons despatches in February 2024. South based mills despatched 1.04 million tons cement during February 2025 that was 25.04% more compared to the despatches of 0.831 million tons during February 2024.
North based cement mills despatched 2.507 million tons cement in domestic markets in February 2025 showing an increase of 7.22% against 2.338 million tons despatches in February 2024. South based mills despatched 557,895 tons cement in local markets during February 2025 that was just 5.06% more compared to the despatches of 531,044 during February 2024.
Exports from North based mills suffered massive drop by 47.82% as the quantities reduced from 95,393 tons in February 2024 to 49,780 tons in February 2025. Exports from South, on the other hand, increased by 60.36% to 481,956 tons in February 2025 from 300,542 tons during the same month last year.
During the first eight months of current fiscal year, total cement despatches (domestic and exports) were 30.423 million tons that is 0.45% lower than 30.560 million tons despatched during the corresponding period of last fiscal year. Domestic despatches during this period were 24.5 million tons against 26.06 million tons during same period last year showing a reduction of 6.00%. Export despatches, during this period, increased by 31.78% as the quantities increased to 5.924 million tons compared to 4.495 million tons exports done during same period of last fiscal year.
North based Mills despatched 20.36 million tons cement domestically during the first eight months of current fiscal year showing a reduction of 5.28% than cement despatches of 21.49 million tons during July-February 2024. Exports from North increased by 20.42% percent to 1.101 million tons during July-February 2025 compared with 0.914 million tons exported during the same period last year. Total despatches by North based Mills reduced by 4.23% to 21.462 million tons during first eight months of current financial year from 22.410 million tons during same period of last financial year.
Domestic despatches by South based Mills during July-February 2025 were 4.139 million tons showing reduction of 9.42% over 4.570 million tons cement despatched during the same period of last fiscal year. Exports from South increased by 34.68% to 4.822 million tons during July-February 2025 compared with 3.580 million tons exported during the same period last year. Total despatches by South based Mills increased by 9.96% to 8.962 million tons during first eight months of current financial year from 8.150 million tons during same period of last financial year.
A spokesman of All Pakistan Cement Manufacturers Association mentioned that we expect industry friendly measures by the government in the upcoming budget to increase the sector’s capacity utilization. Cement industry attracts many allied industries and plays a pivotal role in overall economic uplift of the country, he added.
Mobilink Bank recognized among ‘Top 10 Inclusive Companies’ at GDEIB Awards 2025
Pakistan’s leading digital microfinance bank, Mobilink Bank, has been named one of the ‘Top 10 Inclusive Companies of the Year’ at the prestigious Global Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Benchmarks (GDEIB) Awards 2025. The Bank secured 14 out of 15 award categories, reflecting its commitment to global DEI best practices and its efforts to accelerate women’s social and economic progress in Pakistan.
This unprecedented success is driven by the bank’s transformative DEI initiatives, including the Women Inspirational Network (WIN), which promotes gender diversity and leadership development; Humqadam that builds an inclusive and accessible workforce for Persons with Disabilities; MobiCare, an Employee Assistance Program designed to support employees’ mental, physical, financial, and workplace well-being; and MobilinkHER, a returnship program for females coming after a career break. Additionally, Mobilink Bank’s Inheritance Calculator has been launched to promote financial equity and women’s empowerment by ensuring their rightful share in inheritance.
Complementing these efforts, the Bank’s equal opportunity and safe workplace policies guarantee fairness, respect, and growth opportunities for all employees. The bank has made significant strides in advancing diversity and inclusion, reducing its Gender Pay Gap from 11% in 2023 to 2% in 2024, increasing female hiring from 24% in 2023 to 26% in 2024, and enhancing overall diversity from 13.8% to 16% during the same period.
“These awards affirm our commitment to a society rooted in diversity, equity, and inclusion,” said Haaris Mahmood Chaudhary, President & CEO, Mobilink Bank. “As a future-ready Bank, we strive to create an environment where everyone—within our organization and beyond—can thrive and achieve their ambitions in today’s digital world. From empowering employees to supporting customers and championing women across Pakistan, we are driving sustainable economic transformation.”
“At Mobilink Bank, inclusion isn’t a goal, but a commitment,” said Aleena Tanvir, Chief People Officer, Mobilink Bank. “From bridging the gender pay gap to empowering women leaders and persons with disabilities, we are driving real change—for our employees, customers, and women across Pakistan.”
Mobilink Bank’s commitment to DEI extends beyond its internal policies. As part of the Male Champions of Change (MCC) campaign, the Bank advocates for gender equality and inclusive leadership in the corporate sector. Additionally, the Bank has topped the State Bank of Pakistan’s Banking on Equality scorecard for two years in a row.
Syngenta Pakistan partners with Standard Chartered Pakistan to strengthen Supplier Financing and enhance Agricultural Supply Chain
Syngenta Pakistan has partnered with Standard Chartered Pakistan to implement a digital supplier financing mandate, reinforcing its commitment to strengthening the agricultural supply chain. This collaboration underscores Syngenta Pakistan’s dedication to financial empowerment, innovation, and sustainability within the sector.
Through this partnership, Standard Chartered will provide digital financing solutions to Syngenta Pakistan’s supplier network, ensuring improved cash flow, optimized working capital, and enhanced financial resilience across the agricultural ecosystem. This initiative aligns with Syngenta Pakistan’s vision of fostering a robust, sustainable, and future-ready agribusiness landscape.
The agreement was formalised by Sumaira Ishaque Head of Finance & Facilities, Syngengta Pakistan and Arslan Nayeem, Head of Client Coverage, CIB Pakistan, at Standard Chartered.
Commenting on the occasion, Sumaira Ishaque stated, “Our collaboration with Standard Chartered marks a significant milestone in our efforts to build a more agile and sustainable supply chain. By leveraging tailored financial solutions, we aim to empower our suppliers, enhance operational efficiency, and drive long-term value for all stakeholders.”
Arslan Nayeem of Standard Chartered echoed this sentiment, saying, “We are proud to support Syngenta Pakistan in their journey towards strengthening agricultural supply chains. Our strategic financing solutions will not only streamline their operations but also contribute to a more resilient and prosperous agricultural sector.”
This partnership highlights Syngenta Pakistan’s continued efforts to drive innovation and sustainability in agriculture while ensuring its supplier network thrives through strategic financial solutions.
Inflation falls, but public buying power still in crisis: 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 March 5 that the inflation rate in Pakistan has dropped to a nine-year low, which is a credit to the current government.
He said that last month, the inflation rate was 1.5 percent, compared to 2.4 percent in January.
Mian Zahid Hussain said that according to the official statistics, the inflation rate in urban areas was 24.9 percent in February last year, which has decreased significantly.
Talking to the business community, the veteran business leader said that although inflation in the country is at its lowest since September 2015, the people’s financial condition is not what it was then.
The business leader said that the trend of decreasing inflation is continuing, and soon, the State Bank is likely to reduce interest rates, which will positively impact the economic situation.
Mian Zahid Hussain said that the government’s indicators show a decrease in the rate of price increase. However, the decrease in inflation is insufficient because electricity bills are still out of the people’s reach.
He underlined that reducing electricity and gas prices is also necessary. The people’s purchasing power has also been exhausted. They have been facing inflation and income decline for many years, so something should be done to relieve them.
He said the Ramadan package of Rs 20 billion by the federal government and Rs 30 billion by the Punjab government is commendable.
Despite the decrease in the trend of increasing prices of goods, people are deprived of the ability to buy necessities of life because they are stuck in a purchasing power crisis.
He said that to increase the purchasing power of the masses, new employment opportunities must be created, and for this, business activities must be increased.
To increase business activities, it is necessary to reduce electricity and gas tariffs and tax rates while increasing taxes and broadening the tax base.
In addition, cheap loans to industrialists and farmers are necessary. Mian Zahid Hussain said that the textile sector, which has the highest exports and is the second-largest employment-producing sector in the country, is in crisis.
Over one hundred units have been closed, while many are running at half capacity. In addition, many industrial sectors face difficulties that need immediate attention.
Mian Zahid Hussain said that when businesses start, the people will get employment, and the government will get revenue.
He said that the industrial and export sectors are facing difficulties, electricity and gas tariffs are skyrocketing, and the tax system is anti-investment. Therefore, it will become impossible to run the country without debts.
Mian Zahid Hussain further said that if business conditions are not improved, the tax shortfall, which is currently Rs. 604 billion, will increase further.