AL-Ghazi Tractors showcases innovation and engineering excellence at 4th tdap exhibition
Al-Ghazi Tractors Ltd (AGTL), a leading name in Pakistan’s agricultural machinery sector, is proudly participating in the 4th Health, Engineering, and Mineral Show (HEMS) organised by the Trade Development Authority of Pakistan (TDAP) at the Lahore Expo Center.
Now open to the general public after two days of exclusive access for corporate visitors and international delegates, the exhibition features over 320 companies across Pakistan’s engineering, healthcare, and mineral sectors. AGTL is showcasing its latest innovations in agricultural engineering at a dedicated stall, highlighting its commitment to world-class technology and sustainable farming solutions.
Al-Ghazi Tractors Ltd is proudly participating in this prestigious event with a prominent stall showcasing the company’s latest agricultural machinery innovations and engineering solutions. The exhibition features over 320 exhibiting companies representing Pakistan’s engineering, mineral, and healthcare sectors.
“This exhibition represents an excellent opportunity for Al-Ghazi Tractors to showcase our engineering excellence and innovative agricultural solutions to both international buyers and the Pakistani public,” said Sakib Eltaff, CEO Al-Ghazi Tractors. “We are proud to support TDAP’s mission to enhance Pakistan’s export potential while deepening our connection with local stakeholders.”
The first two days of the exhibition were focused on B2B engagement, with over 2,400 meetings held between Pakistani companies and more than 650 foreign delegates from over 65 countries, generating promising interest in Pakistan’s industrial offerings.
Held annually, the TDAP exhibition serves as a vital platform for amplifying the visibility of Pakistani brands and unlocking new export opportunities. As the country’s largest showcase of engineering, healthcare, and mineral technologies, HEMS plays a pivotal role in advancing TDAP’s mission to promote exports through a holistic and strategic approach. AGTL’s participation reflects its continued leadership in mechanizing agriculture and aligning with national efforts to bolster exports through innovation and collaboration.
Members of the public are encouraged to visit the exhibition today to witness firsthand the strength and diversity of Pakistan’s industrial landscape — and to explore AGTL’s contributions toward a more mechanized and productive agricultural future.
Mobilink Bank and Jazzcash lead national financial literacy drive
Pakistan’s leading digital microfinance institution, Mobilink Bank, along with Pakistan’s largest fintech platform JazzCash, are spearheading a powerful national drive to promote financial awareness and empowerment as part of Pakistan Financial Literacy Week 2025.
Mobilink Bank and JazzCash’s active role during Financial Literacy Week comes at a time when their contributions have also been formally acknowledged by the State Bank of Pakistan (SBP), which conferred upon Mobilink Bank the coveted ‘Performance Award’ for ‘Access to Finance’ under the National Financial Literacy Program, especially for fostering credit access to Pakistan’s most financially excluded communities.
Reinforcing its commitment to inclusive growth, the bank is reaching diverse communities across Pakistan to equip individuals with essential financial knowledge and tools to make informed, effective, and responsible financial decisions. The nationwide campaign spans all provinces through a comprehensive three-pronged outreach strategy. This includes interactive on-campus drives that educate students on key financial topics such as personal finance, savings, investment, and budgeting. In addition, financial literacy camps are being organized in multiple districts, providing accessible and practical knowledge to local communities. Additionally, participants are being welcomed to branch visits where they can experience firsthand the digital financial services offered by Mobilink Bank and Jazzcash, and gain greater understanding of secure, inclusive financial tools.
Sharing his thoughts, Haaris Mahmood Chaudhary, President and CEO, Mobilink Bank, said, “Financial literacy is a gateway to economic empowerment. Mobilink Bank continues to foster literacy and digital innovation to bring excluded populations into the financial fold, especially those still held back by socio-economic and cultural barriers. Our purpose is to empower all the masses, especially women, farmers, and SMEs to fuel their economic empowerment and we’re doing so with the vision of giving affordable smartphones, data and business tools to every Pakistani so that they can have full access to credit.”
Murtaza Ali, President JazzCash, said, “By equipping individuals with the knowledge and tools to make informed financial decisions, we are fostering not only personal growth but also economic resilience on a national scale. Our unwavering commitment to creating an inclusive financial ecosystem reflects our belief that every citizen deserves access to transformative financial services—empowering every Pakistani to unlock their potential while contributing to the documentation of the economy.”
Together with JazzCash, Mobilink Bank continues to transform communities through financial literacy and access to finance, leading to their social mobility.
Every Bite Counts – Protecting Pakistan’s Children from Malaria
ChildLife Foundation is sounding the alarm on malaria’s growing threat to Pakistan’s children, as the disease becomes increasingly endemic across the country. On World Malaria Day, ChildLife Foundation is calling urgent attention to the continued burden of malaria on Pakistan’s youngest and most vulnerable citizens. Despite being entirely preventable and treatable, malaria remains one of the leading killers of children under five in Pakistan and globally.
In 2023 alone, over 597,000 people died from malaria worldwide—77% were children under the age of five. In Pakistan, the threat is rapidly escalating, with 3.4 million suspected and 2.7 million confirmed cases reported. The presence of both Plasmodium falciparum and Plasmodium vivax strains, particularly in Sindh, Balochistan, and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, makes children more vulnerable to severe outcomes, including coma and death.
“A single mosquito bite should not decide a child’s fate,” said Dr. Irfan Habib, Medical Director of ChildLife Foundation. “This World Malaria Day, we urge all sectors—public, private, and media—to join hands in preventing unnecessary deaths.”
ChildLife Foundation operates in 14 Pediatric Emergency Rooms (ERs) and over 300 telemedicine satellite centres in government hospitals, forming a national safety net for critically ill children. In 2024, ChildLife treated more than 15,600 children for malaria, offering immediate, lifesaving care. ChildLife ERs are equipped for rapid diagnosis and standardized treatment for severe cases and supportive care with fluids, transfusions, monitoring, and prevention counseling for every caregiver at discharge.
Children are most at risk of malaria due to a combination of environmental, social, and healthcare challenges. In low-income areas, stagnant water, poor sanitation, and substandard housing create ideal conditions for mosquito breeding. Many families lack awareness about early symptoms and simple prevention methods, making timely intervention difficult. Climate change is further worsening the situation—floods and rising temperatures are accelerating mosquito reproduction. In remote districts, delays in accessing emergency care often turn treatable infections into life-threatening emergencies for young children. Early signs include fever with chills, vomiting, lethargy, and body aches. Severe symptoms—such as seizures, unconsciousness, jaundice, or tea-colored urine—warrant an urgent ER visit.
At ChildLife’s ER, attendants receive essential counseling on malaria prevention to protect their children from future infections. This includes guidance on using insecticide-treated mosquito nets and repellents, dressing children in full-sleeved clothing during the evening hours and removing stagnant water around the home to eliminate mosquito breeding grounds. Parents are also advised to use mosquito coils or plug-in repellents to reduce exposure indoors.
ChildLife Foundation calls on stakeholders to reinvest in frontline emergency and pediatric care, reimagine public health education and early detection, reignite coordinated action with government, civil society, and media. Every day, children in Pakistan are brought to emergency rooms fighting for their lives against malaria—a disease that is preventable yet continues to claim young lives. This World Malaria Day let’s ensure that no child in Pakistan dies from a mosquito bite.
UN Delegation Applauds Community Initiatives at Thar Block II
A high-level United Nations delegation, led by MPA Qasim Siraj Soomro, visited Thar Block II and appreciated community development initiatives that have improved the lives of Tharis.
The delegation, comprising officials from FAO, UNFPA, UNICEF, UN Women, UNRCO, WFP, and WHO, was briefed by the Thar Foundation’s team and taken on a tour of key project sites.
The delegation visited the model village of New Senhri Dars, where they engaged with students at one of the 25 schools established by Thar Foundation. With over 5,000 students currently enrolled in these school units, they acknowledged the crucial role of such an education network in improving literacy across the region. The UN officials also administered polio drops to children at the Thar Foundation Hospital in Islamkot.
The UN team further toured a clean drinking water RO plant and a veterinary camp, where they also observed livestock vaccinations and deworming efforts. Mr. James Roberts Okoth from FAO, expressed interest in collaborating with Thar Foundation to support livestock breeding and promote agricultural innovation in the region.
A night of honour: Sir Anwar Pervez & Bestway Group’s achievements celebrated
Lord Zameer Choudrey CBE SI Pk hosted a dignified and emotional tribute dinner at Serena Hotel, Islamabad, in honour of the Founder and Chairman Emeritus of Bestway Group, Sir Anwar Pervez OBE HPk, celebrating his remarkable life, values and achievements.
The event was graced by the presence of Jane Marriott, the British High Commissioner and Lord Wajid Khan of Burnley, a UK Minister. The two UK government representatives highlighted the unparalleled business success he has achieved in the UK as well as the invaluable contribution made by Sir Anwar and Bestway Group in forging strong bilateral relations between Pakistan and the UK.
Also present on the occasion were Dr. Maleeha Lodhi, former Ambassador of Pakistan to the UN, US and UK and Dr Ishrat Hussain, renowned economist and former Governor of the State Bank of Pakistan, who shared personal reflections and paid rich tributes to Sir Anwar’s and lauded his efforts in the UK as well as the business and charitable contributions he has made in Pakistan through Bestway Group.
The exclusive gathering was attended by Governor State Bank, Mr Jameel Ahmad, amongst other senior dignitaries and prominent members of the business community, government representatives and civil society leaders to pay tribute to a legacy that continues to inspire across generations.
Road to greatness heats up
TCL unleashes Pakistan’s fiercest regional champions
TCL, Pakistan’s No. 1 LED TV brand, lit up the nation’s football scene with the thrilling Road to Greatness Cup, a high-stakes tournament that united the country’s top regional champions in an electrifying battle for glory.
From blazing tackles to clutch goals, the event delivered two days of unrelenting energy, raw talent, and unforgettable moments that captured the spirit of a rising football nation. In a gripping final showdown recently, Islamabad triumphed over Karachi with a commanding 3-1 victory, securing their place as national champions and taking home a cash prize of PKR 100,000 along with the prestigious title.
Over two action-packed, adrenaline-fueled days, the tournament brought together elite teams from Lahore, Karachi, Islamabad, Peshawar, and Quetta — each already crowned regional champions. They faced off in front of roaring crowds and a buzzing, electric audience of football lovers, influencers, and media personalities, all eager to witness the explosive rise of Pakistan’s next football legends.
The energy off the field matched the intensity on it, as TCL transformed the event into a full-blown celebration of youth, passion, and sporting greatness. Islamabad emerged as the national champion, earning the prestigious honor of representing Pakistan on the global stage — a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to be trained by Arsenal FC’s coaches at the iconic Emirates Stadium in London, one of football’s most legendary venues.
Majid Khan Niazi, Director of Marketing, TCL Middle East and Africa, expressed his excitement, “The Road to Greatness Cup was a game changer not just for the players, but for Pakistan’s football future. We’ve witnessed raw talent, unmatched passion, and true sportsmanship. TCL is proud to pave the way for these young athletes to shine internationally. This is what our brand stands for turning dreams into reality through world-class exposure and global platforms.”
With the Road to Greatness Cup, TCL further strengthened its longstanding commitment to football in Pakistan. Already a passionate supporter of the sport through various initiatives and global partnerships, TCL continues to create powerful platforms that spotlight young talent, fuel ambition, and deliver unforgettable moments for fans across the country.
Lord Zameer Choudrey also expressed his deep personal respect and affection for his uncle, acknowledging the profound influence Sir Anwar has had on his life and the lives of many others.
The highlight of the evening was the book launch — a moving biography of Sir Anwar Pervez, capturing the incredible journey from his modest beginnings in Pakistan to becoming one of the most respected business leaders in the United Kingdom. The biography stands as a timeless tribute to the founder, preserving his story for future generations as a source of learning and inspiration.
Sir Anwar’s journey, marked by resilience, vision and an unwavering commitment to community and philanthropy, began in the humble village of Thathi. Migrating to the United Kingdom in 1956, he worked tirelessly to build a future for himself and his family. He eventually founded Bestway Group which has grown to become a diversified £5 billion global enterprise that employs over 47,000 individuals and is also one of Pakistan’s largest overseas investors.
ACCA and OICCI strengthen ties to drive ESG, sustainability, and corporate governance
The Association of Chartered Certified Accountants (ACCA) reinforced its commitment to advancing Pakistan’s business landscape through a strategic engagement with the Overseas Investors Chamber of Commerce and Industry (OICCI). During her official visit to Pakistan, Helen Brand OBE, Chief Executive of ACCA, led a high-level meeting with M Abdul Aleem, CEO & Secretary General of OICCI, at the Chamber’s head office in Karachi.
The meeting marked a key milestone as ACCA and OICCI signed a MoU aimed at deepening collaboration on shared priorities such as climate action, ESG integration, and sustainability reporting, and accelerating the digital transformation of businesses operating in Pakistan. The partnership signifies the organizations’ joint intent to empower business leaders and finance professionals with the right tools and knowledge to align with global standards and sustainability goals.
“This collaboration between OICCI and ACCA marks another step towards promoting a more progressive and responsible business ecosystem in Pakistan. Through joint efforts in capacity building and knowledge exchange, we aim to promote best practices in areas critical to sustainable growth — ranging from corporate governance and ESG to technology, innovation, and diversity. Our shared vision is to support businesses in aligning with global standards while contributing meaningfully to the UN Sustainable Development Goals,” said Secretary General OICCI, M. Abdul Aleem.
ACCA’s engagement with OICCI is part of its broader strategy to foster stronger business ecosystems through partnerships that drive corporate governance, transparency, and ethical practices. With members in 180+ countries, ACCA brings global expertise to support Pakistan’s economic transformation.
“ACCA is proud to partner with OICCI to help shape a stronger, more transparent business environment in Pakistan. By combining our global expertise in finance, ethics and sustainability with OICCI’s deep understanding of investment and regulatory challenges, we aim to drive real progress in financial management and compliance. Through joint initiatives — such as training, policy advocacy and thought leadership — we’re committed to strengthening corporate governance, supporting sustainable growth, and creating an investment climate that benefits both local and multinational enterprises.” — Helen Brand OBE, Chief Executive, ACCA
ACCA and OICCI will continue to collaborate on capacity-building initiatives, subject matter contributions at key industry events, and co-hosted dialogues to advocate for forward-looking policies that benefit the private sector. This partnership is a testament to the role of cross-sector collaboration in unlocking Pakistan’s potential as a responsible, future-ready investment hub.
Syngenta regional leadership highlights regulatory stability as key to Pakistan’s agricultural growth
In a move to reinforce its long-term commitment to Pakistan’s agricultural development, Syngenta Pakistan recently hosted Mr. Jerome Barbaron, Regional Business Head for Africa & Middle East (AME), and Mr. Haytham Shbaita, Head of Regulatory Affairs & Product Safety – Asia, Middle East & Africa (AMEA), during a strategic three-day visit.
The high-level delegation engaged with key government stakeholders including the Prime Minister’s Secretariat, the Ministry of National Food Security & Research, the Ministry of Commerce, the Ministry of Economic Affairs Division, the Punjab Agriculture Department, and the Ambassador of Switzerland to Pakistan. These interactions focused on fostering public-private collaboration to enhance agricultural productivity and resilience.
Accompanying the visiting leaders were Syngenta Pakistan’s Country General Manager Zeeshan Baig, Head of Corporate Affairs & Business Sustainability Syed Ali Murtaza, and Head of CPD Tauseef ul Haq. Together, the team emphasized the urgent need for a stable and predictable regulatory environment to drive innovation and attract sustainable foreign investment.
“Predictable regulation is key to attracting global investment and driving innovation in agriculture,” said Mr. Jerome Barbaron, underlining Syngenta’s global perspective on enabling agricultural transformation.
With agriculture accounting for 23% of Pakistan’s GDP and employing more than 38% of the country’s workforce, Syngenta’s visit spotlighted the importance of robust policy frameworks and strategic partnerships to ensure food security and economic growth.
The visit reaffirmed Syngenta’s dedication to working hand-in-hand with Pakistani institutions to support a thriving, innovative, and resilient agricultural sector.
IMC promotes DEI at Pakistan’s first-ever reverse career expo
Indus Motor Company (IMC), in collaboration with the National Aerospace Science & Technology Park (NASTP) and Ashrei Tech, proudly participated as Title Sponsor in Pakistan’s first-ever Reverse Career Expo, held at NASTP Silicon, Karachi.
This groundbreaking event reimagined the traditional job fair by placing Persons with Disabilities (PwDs) at the forefront. Instead of employers hosting booths, candidates showcased their skills while engaging in live interviews with recruiters in their personalized booths. HR representatives from over 450 companies participated in the event, marking a significant milestone in inclusive hiring.
Ali Asghar Jamali, CEO, Indus Motor Company mentioned that “At Toyota, we believe that mobility is about more than just moving people from one place to another. It’s about empowering individuals to move forward in life— towards opportunity, dignity, and independence. This belief lies at the heart of our global commitment: “Mobility for All.”
The initiative reflects IMC’s dedication to Diversity, Equity & Inclusion (DEI) agenda in Pakistan and reinforces its ongoing call for organizations to build workplaces where everyone continues to belong and thrive.
Celebrating 35 years of Toyota in Pakistan, IMC sees this partnership as a meaningful way to give back — by championing opportunity and innovation in equal measure.
Mian Zahid lauds PM Shehbaz $5b trade vision with Türkiye
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, expressed on April 24 that the economic and strategic ties between Pakistan and Türkiye are becoming increasingly robust.
He commended the current government for fostering improved relations between the two countries, stating that this benefits both nations.
Mian Zahid Hussain said that Pakistan and Türkiye have a long-standing bond based on shared history, culture, and religion. The partnership is expanding globally as they work together more closely in international matters.
Talking to the business community, the veteran business leader said that Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif is eager to boost trade with Türkiye. He aims to increase the current trade volume to $5 billion in the coming years, and the business community unconditionally supports this goal.
He added that many Turkish companies are interested in investing in Pakistan in key areas such as infrastructure, energy, construction, and transportation. At the same time, Pakistani companies are also showing interest in doing business with the friendly nation.
He further noted that defence cooperation between the two countries is also growing. Their militaries participate in joint exercises and training programs and work together to produce defence equipment. Türkiye is helping Pakistan by providing modern warplanes, drone technology, and military training, he informed.
Mian Zahid said that Pakistan and Türkiye often share similar views on critical global issues, including the situations in Kashmir, Palestine, and Afghanistan. Both countries support each other on regional security matters and strengthen their cultural ties.
Turkish TV dramas have become very popular in Pakistan, and there is also growing cooperation in education.
He also highlighted Türkiye’s strong and consistent support for Pakistan in the fight against terrorism and on the issue of Kashmir.
During Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif’s recent visit to Türkiye, he praised Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan, calling him a visionary leader who has led his country to impressive progress. PM Shehbaz stressed the importance of expanding economic cooperation through joint projects and investments.
He emphasised the potential for collaboration in energy, mining, defence, agriculture, trade, public exchanges, regional and bilateral ties, and emerging technologies like artificial intelligence and cybersecurity.
During the meeting, both leaders also expressed grave concern about the situation in Gaza. They called for an immediate ceasefire and urgent delivery of humanitarian aid to the people affected by the conflict.
Pakistan’s and Türkiye’s relationship is becoming more profound and more meaningful. It covers areas like business, defence, culture, and international politics. Both countries are working together for mutual benefit and regional stability.
IMC Sponsors Female Squash Players from Australian Junior Open Championship
Indus Motor Company has recently sponsored three young female squash players from Australian Junior Open Squash Championship, where they won two gold and one silver medals, while maintaining its legacy of sponsoring sporting prowess in Pakistan.
According to details, Mahnoor Ali won gold in under-13, Sehrish Ali took silver in under-15, and Mehwish Ali grabbed gold medal in under-17 categories, respectively.
IMC expressed this gesture on the revival of squash sports in the country and believes that these young talented females will bring back Pakistan’s supremacy in the sport. IMC remains committed to providing an equal playing field for all sporting professionals in Pakistan.
“We’re thrilled to watch our Pakistani players win in numerous categories at the Australian Junior Open Squash Championship. Our conviction to provide opportunities to emerging Pakistani sportsmen has been a pillar of strength for many, who have made Pakistan proud,” said Chief Executive, IMC, Ali Asghar Jamali.
It is pertinent to mention that IMC as part of Toyota’s global Start Your Impossible campaign remains committed to support Pakistani talent and promoting sports across the country. The campaign showcases the power of local communities rallying behind their athletes and emphasizes Toyota’s belief that no journey is taken alone.
Celebrating 35 years of Toyota in Pakistan, IMC sees this partnership as a meaningful way to give back — by championing opportunity and innovation in equal measure.
Pakistan Auto Show 2025 gears up for landmark edition in Karachi
The Pakistan Auto Show 2025 (PAPS 2025), which is the country’s largest and only official automotive exhibition organized by the auto part manufacturers themselves along with OEM support, will be held in November 2025 at the Karachi Expo Centre.
The official launch of the exhibition was announced during the annual dinner of Pakistan Association of Automotive Parts and Accessories Manufacturers (PAAPAM) at a local hotel in Karachi, which was attended by senior figures from across the Pakistani automotive industry including CEO’s of local component manufacturing firms.
Unlike conventional trade shows, PAAPAM is deeply involved in every detail of PAKISTAN AUTO SHOW—from layout to execution—ensuring that valuable synergies are created between part manufacturers and OEMs as the event offers consumers a unique opportunity to explore the latest developments in the automotive sector under one roof.
This year’s edition already features an impressive lineup of participating brands and with a growing number of newcomers the show is expected to include several surprise launches and new model reveals — making it a must-attend event for industry stakeholders and enthusiasts alike.
It is to be noted that PAAPAM is an association of over 350 local companies and it represents the backbone of Pakistan’s automotive supply chain, contributing a large percentage of locally manufactured parts to the automotive manufacturers in Pakistan. With Atlas Honda Limited leading the way in the motorcycle sector with over 95% localised parts.