BOP Launches Industry’s First Digital Business Loan Solution: “BOP SME Digital Finance”
The Bank of Punjab (BOP), proudly announced the official launch of its state-of-the-art SME lending product, “BOP SME Digital Finance,” at a prominent event held in Karachi. The launch marks a significant milestone in Pakistan’s financial sector, reinforcing the bank’s commitment to nurture inclusive and digitalized financial solutions for small and medium enterprises (SMEs).
The event was graced by Mr. Saleem Ullah, Deputy Governor of SBP, and Mr. Zafar Masud, President & CEO of BOP. Their presence underlines the significance of this pioneering initiative in transforming SME lending practices across Pakistan.
Mr. Zafar Masud while calling it A New Era of Banking for SMEs emphasized that this digital initiative sets BOP apart as “Pakistan’s first commercial bank to introduce such a comprehensive, tech-enabled SME lending solution.” He further added that BOP has emerged as the market leader in digital lending, particularly for SMEs, through its innovative suite of products including the Asaan Karobar Card (AKC), Asaan Karobar Finance (AKF), eBusiness Qarza, and Kissan Card. With these solutions, BOP has redefined access to finance for small businesses, entrepreneurs, and farmers by offering collateral-free, fully digital, and inclusive lending options.
As of June 30, 2025, BOP has achieved:
- 295% increase in SME borrowers
- 91% growth in outstanding SME portfolio
- 44% market share in SME lending,
placing BOP at the top position in the industry.
BOP’s digital transformation journey has not only set benchmarks in Pakistan but has also earned global recognition. The bank has won prestigious international awards for its pioneering digital initiatives, positioning itself as a recognized leader in financial innovation.
Deputy Governor Mr. Saleem Ullah congratulated the BOP and its IT and SME team for developing the Digital SME finance product under the SBP Challenge Fund for SME financing. He appreciated the priority sector financing capacity and culture nurtured by BOP and said that such approach and culture is critical for achieving sustainable increase in priority sector financing including SMEs. He highlighted the SBP strategy for promoting SME finance, which include removing structural barriers in SME finance, ensuring conducive regulatory environment, simplifying loan processing, rationalizing collateral requirements, encouraging banks to leverage technology, fostering partnerships with Fintechs and other non-financial service providers for scalable and sustainable SME financing. As a result of collective efforts of GoP, SBP and banks/DFIs, the total outstanding SME finance increased to Rs691 billion as of June 30, 2025 exhibiting an increase of 41% YoY basis. Similarly, the number of outstanding SME borrowers also increased to 276,578 showing a growth of 57% on YoY basis.
Mr. Asif Riaz, Group Chief of the Consumer Banking Group at BOP, in his welcome note highlighted that “BOP SME Digital Finance” was developed under the SBP’s Challenge Fund for Technology Adoption & Digitalization of SME Banking. BOP was the only bank which won this challenge fund after a rigorous evaluation and tough competition.
This comprehensive digital platform addresses critical challenges faced by SMEs, including the absence of collateral, lengthy application processes, lack of formal documentation, and overall financial inclusion gaps—particularly for underserved small entrepreneurs.
This innovative, collateral-free digital lending platform offers a seamless financial journey for both existing and new-to-bank clients, whether seeking term finance or working capital. It incorporates advanced features such as business and financial assessments through structured questions, cash flow analysis for realistic repayment evaluation, psychometric testing of 12 behavioral traits to gauge creditworthiness beyond traditional metrics, and automated scoring using regression-based statistical model. Approved customers can easily accept offers, sign documents electronically, and complete account setup and fund disbursement entirely through a digital process, redefining convenience and efficiency in SME financing. The launch was attended by senior management members both from SBP and BOP, who extended their hearty congratulations to the team for achieving this transformative milestone, firmly positioning BOP at the forefront of Pakistan’s digital banking revolution.
Foreign agendas, local cost risk sidelining Pakistan’s tobacco priorities
Pakistan debates the role of international NGOs in shaping its tobacco control policies, findings from Bangladesh highlight a cautionary tale that policymakers here cannot ignore.
A recent report revealed how organizations funded by Bloomberg Philanthropies including the Campaign for Tobacco-Free Kids (CTFK) and Vital Strategies played a direct role in drafting Bangladesh’s tobacco legislation.
These foreign-funded entities, while presenting themselves as public health advocates, bypassed wider consultation processes and pushed for sweeping bans on alternatives such as e-cigarettes and other smoke-free products. Critics argued that such policy captures overlooked local realities, including the persistent growth of illicit trade.
This regional pattern mirrors Pakistan’s own experience, where several INGOs were previously barred from operating due to transparency and registration issues. Despite this, CTFK has continued to influence the policy debate indirectly through local partners, with a narrow focus on tax hikes and stricter rules for compliant businesses, all while remaining silent on the illicit cigarette trade, which now accounts for more than half of Pakistan’s market and drains over Rs 415 billion annually from the exchequer.
“Illicit trade continues to undermine efforts aimed at fiscal consolidation and economic transparency. Leakages of this scale do not just distort the market but also deprive the government of essential resources, limiting its ability to invest in crucial sectors such as healthcare, education, and infrastructure,” said Fawad Khan, spokesperson for Mustehkam Pakistan.
He added that the Bangladesh case reflects a broader trend across developing nations, foreign-funded advocacy campaigns often disregard economic realities, weak enforcement, and sovereignty concerns. For Pakistan, the risk lies not just in adopting externally driven models, but in failing to address the country’s most pressing challenge, the unchecked rise of illicit cigarettes.
CTFK reportedly moves toward securing formal registration in Pakistan, the spokesperson has urged regulators to ensure strict oversight, transparency of funding, and accountability in policy influence. “Without such safeguards, Pakistan could face a repeat of Bangladesh’s experience, where policy frameworks were heavily influenced by foreign lobbying, often without addressing the root causes of tobacco consumption or illicit trade”, he said.
He said that the tobacco policy in Pakistan must be built on local realities, transparency, and balanced enforcement, not steered by external agendas that risk sidelining the country’s economic and public health priorities.
Indus Motor reports strong fy 2024–25 performance with 56% growth
Indus Motor Company Limited (IMC) on August 29 announced its financial results for the year ended June 30, 2025, reporting strong growth in sales, revenues, and profitability amid signs of economic stabilization.
IMC sold 33,757 units, a 56% increase over the previous year. The Yaris facelift launch in July 2024 fueled an 84% rise in passenger car sales, while the commercial vehicle segment grew 32% on stronger fleet demand. Net sales revenue climbed to PKR 215.14 billion from PKR 152.48 billion in FY 2023–24. Prudent cost management, higher localization, and favorable exchange rate movements drove profit before tax to PKR 37.67 billion, up from PKR 23.33 billion. Earnings per share increased to PKR 292.74 from PKR 191.76, while net profit after tax rose to PKR 23.01 billion, compared to PKR 15.07 billion last year.
Based on the results, the Board of Directors announced a final dividend of PKR 50 per share, making the annual dividend for the fiscal year 2024-25 is PKR 176 per share.
Commenting on the results, Ali Asghar Jamali, CEO IMC, said: “This year marked a period of cautious optimism for Pakistan’s economy and our industry. While challenges persisted, the broader macroeconomic environment showed signs of stabilization, offering hope of a stronger foundation ahead. Against this backdrop, I am pleased to report that IMC delivered improved performance, driven by product refresh, recovering demand, and prudent financial discipline. This outcome reflects the resilience of our teams, the loyalty of our customers, and the trust of our shareholders.”
The broader automotive industry also posted a recovery in FY 2024–25, with passenger car and light commercial vehicle sales rising 43% to nearly 148,000 units (PAMA). However, the sharp increase in used-vehicle imports, estimated at 40,000–45,000 units, now accounting for almost one-third of the domestic market compared to less than 10% up until 2023, poses a serious threat to local manufacturing and pressures the country’s foreign exchange reserves.
Reaffirming its commitment to sustainable growth, IMC underscored the need for consistent and balanced policies that protect local industry while preserving consumer choice. Looking ahead, IMC expects demand momentum to continue in FY 2025–26, supported by lower interest rates, moderating inflation, and increased adoption of hybrid and electric vehicles. Strategic priorities remain centered on quality, safety, and value for customers, alongside delivering sustainable returns for shareholders.
On behalf of the Board, Chairman Mohamedali R. Habib expressed gratitude to employees, dealers, vendors, partners, and shareholders for their trust and dedication throughout a challenging yet rewarding year.
Fatima Fertilizer, king’s trust and seed ventures to empower youth through enterprise challenge Pakistan
Fatima Fertilizer Company Limited (FFL) signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with SEED Ventures in Islamabad, marking a new chapter in its commitment to empowering youth and supporting the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Fatima Fertilizer, as the first company in Pakistan to adopt the UNDP SDG Impact Framework, continues to strengthen its role as a leader in sustainable development and community empowerment.
The collaboration brings Enterprise Challenge Pakistan (ECP) – a flagship initiative of King’s Trust International (founded by His Majesty King Charles III) and SEED Ventures, on board as a strategic partner for Fatima Fertilizer. The program nurtures entrepreneurial thinking, innovation, and business acumen among youth aged 14–18, with special emphasis on gender equality, underprivileged communities, public-sector schools, and children with disabilities.
The ceremony was graced by H.E. Jane Marriott, British High Commissioner to Pakistan, as Chief Guest. Senior leadership from Fatima Fertilizer was also present, including Rabel Sadozai, Director of Marketing & Sales, and Shaista Ayesha, Chief Executive Officer of SEED Ventures, along with other key stakeholders.
Under its 9th cycle (2025–2026), ECP will engage nearly 3,000 students from 100–120 schools across rural Pakistan.
This collaboration reinforces Fatima Fertilizer’s commitment to the UN Sustainable Development Goals. By expanding access to education, the program contributes to SDG 4 (Quality Education) by providing inclusive and innovative learning opportunities that prepare students for the future. At the same time, it drives SDG 8 (Decent Work and Economic Growth) by encouraging entrepreneurial mindsets, fostering job creation, and equipping youth with the tools to transform their ideas into sustainable ventures. The initiative also supports SDG 9 (Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure) by strengthening Pakistan’s entrepreneurial ecosystem through creativity and innovation at the grassroots level.
Speaking about the Enterprise Challenge Pakistan, Will Straw, CEO of King’s Trust International, said, “King’s Trust International is proud to support this partnership with Fatima Fertilizers and SEED Ventures for the Enterprise Challenge Pakistan. By building strong partnerships, we can continue empowering young people in Pakistan to turn ideas into actions and drive positive change through entrepreneurship.”
Expressing her views, British High Commissioner Jane Marriott CMG, OBE, remarked, “Pakistan’s youth have huge potential. The Enterprise Challenge Pakistan provides the perfect platform for unlocking this. This partnership marks an exciting new step for the competition, by giving even more young people the opportunity to participate.”
Shaista Ayesha, Chief Executive Officer of SEED Ventures, said, “We are delighted to have Fatima Fertilizer onboard as a new partner for Enterprise Challenge Pakistan. This is indeed momentous because it lays the foundation for scaling the programme across rural Pakistan. Providing a platform like ECP to young people from rural Pakistan is critical in building the next generation of agripreneurs for the country.”
Rabel Sadozai, Director of Marketing and Sales at Fatima Fertilizer, added, “This initiative is about nurturing the entrepreneurial spirit of our youth and equipping them with the skills needed to thrive in a rapidly evolving world. Through this partnership, we are reinforcing our commitment to inclusive growth and sustainable community development, while staying aligned with global efforts to achieve the SDGs.”
In a statement regarding the initiative, Asad Murad, Chief Operating Officer of Fatima Fertilizer, said, “At Fatima Fertilizer, we believe that investing in our youth is the most meaningful investment in Pakistan’s future. Through our support for Enterprise Challenge Pakistan, we aim to create avenues for young minds to innovate, lead, and excel, particularly those from underserved communities who deserve equal opportunities to realize their potential and contribute to the nation’s progress.”
This partnership signifies Fatima Fertilizer’s commitment to youth empowerment, sustainable community development, and advancing Pakistan’s role in achieving the global SDGs by 2030.
Cement despatches rise 12.45% in August 2025, exports up 22%
According to the data released by All Pakistan Cement Manufacturers Association (APCMA), local cement despatches by the industry during the month of August 2025 were 3.097 million tons compared to 2.807 million tons in August 2024, showing a month over month increase of 10.33%. Exports despatches also rose by 22.13% as the volumes increased from 613,857 tons in August 2024 to 749,723 tons in August 2025. The figures of last month (July 2025) were far better as the industry witnessed 18.61% domestic growth and 84% jump in exports over July 2024. Total Cement despatches during August 2025 were 3.846 million tons against 3.421 Million Tons despatched during the same month of last fiscal year, showing an increase of 12.45%.
In August 2025, North based cement mills despatched 2.795 million tons cement showing an increase of 8.10% against 2.585 million tons despatches in August 2024. South based mills despatched 1.05 million tons cement during August 2025 that was also 25.93% more compared to the despatches of 0.835 million tons during August 2024.
North based cement mills despatched 2.586 million tons cement in domestic markets in August 2025 showing an increase of 8.64% against 2.380 million tons despatches in August 2024. South based mills despatched 510,758 tons cement in local markets during August 2025 that was also 19.81% more compared to the despatches of 426,289 during August 2024.
Exports from North based mills marginally increased by 1.84% as the quantities rose from 204,901 tons in August 2024 to 208,669 tons in August 2025. Exports from South, however, showed healthy increase by 32.30% to 541,054 tons in August 2025 from 408,956 tons during the same month last year.
During the first two months of current fiscal year, total cement despatches (domestic and exports) were 7.847 million tons that is 20.88% higher than 6.492 million tons despatched during the corresponding period of last fiscal year. Domestic despatches during this period were 6.090 million tons against 5.331 million tons during same period last year showing an increase of 14.25%. Export despatches also showed significant increase by 51.29% as the volumes jumped to 1.757 million tons during the first two months of current fiscal year compared to 1.161 million tons exports done during same period of last fiscal year.
North based Mills despatched 5.004 million tons cement domestically during the first two months of current fiscal year showing an increase of 10.36% over cement despatches of 4.535 million tons during July-August 2024. Exports from North showed healthy increase by 44.99% percent to 440,654 tons during July-August 2025 compared with 303,921 tons exported during the same period last year. Total despatches by North based Mills increased by 12.53% to 5.445 million tons during first two months of current financial year from 4.839 million tons during same period of last financial year.
Domestic despatches by South based Mills during July-August 2025 were 1.086 million tons showing an increase of 36.46% over 0.796 million tons cement despatched during the same period of last fiscal year. Exports from South also showed massive increase by 53.53% to 1.316 million tons during July-August 2025 compared with 0.857 million tons exported during the same period last year. Total despatches by South based Mills increased by 45.31% to 2.402 million tons during first two months of current financial year from 1.653 million tons during same period of last financial year.
A spokesman of APCMA mentioned that the country is passing through tough times due to excessive rains and floods affecting the masses. He urged the government to reduce taxes on cement to bring down the cost of rehabilitation of affected areas.
Sana Bahadar triumphs at Independence Day Open Squash Championship 2025
The Independence Day Open Championship 2025, a prestigious event in the squash community, concluded its fifth edition recently, with Sana Bahadar emerging victorious after a thrilling final match in the Women’s open. Sana Bahadar (Pak) defeated Sarah Nelson (Aus) in a decisive victory, marking a significant achievement for the talented athlete.
The final match, held at Canterbury league Club, saw a dominant performance by Sana, who demonstrated exceptional skill, securing the title with a score of 3-1. This victory adds to Sana’s impressive career and solidifies their position as a top-tier competitor in the sport of squash.
Sana Bahadar said, “I’m so grateful to everyone who supported me, especially my parents and the Amir Sultan Chinoy Foundation. Competing in this category was not easy for me, but I am so proud that I did”.
Saif Bahadar, who is accompanying his sister, successfully reached the Quarter Finals in the men’s open squash category. The talented sibling duo have been are currently on tour in Australia.
Sher Bahadar, proud father of the sibling duo acknowledged the support of Sana and Sai’f’s coaches and mentors which included Riaz Khan, Muhammad Sohail, Owais Khan and Qamar Zaman. He said, “I thank Allah Almighty for this blessing and express my heartfelt gratitude to her sponsors Amir Sultan Chinoy Foundation and the Pakistan Squash Federation for their continuous support” and also thanks the organizers.
Classified as Persons with disabilities, they are Pakistan’s emerging squash duo (under 23) who are defying all odds. The Amir Sultan Chinoy Foundation have sponsored a multi-year agreement with Sana and Saif Bahadar, talented squash players from Pakistan to support their training and enabling them to showcase Pakistani’s squash talent globally.
The 5th Independence Day Tournament 2025 attracted world-class talent from across the globe, showcasing high-level competition and generating excitement among squash enthusiasts.
Mian Zahid commends economic transition, urges focus on inclusive growth
Mian Zahid Hussain, Chairman of the Policy Advisory Board of the Federation of Pakistan Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FPCCI) and a senior leader of the Pakistani business community, on August 29 issued a comprehensive statement on Pakistan’s economic landscape. “Pakistan’s economy has successfully transitioned from a phase of stabilization to sustained reform, supported by a remarkable set of positive macroeconomic indicators for FY24-25,” said Mian Zahid Hussain.
He highlighted several key achievements, including a real GDP growth of 2.7% and a 10% increase in per capita income, which has now reached $1,824. He also noted the country’s first current account surplus in 14 years, amounting to $2.1 billion—the highest in 22 years—alongside a nine-year low inflation rate of 4.5%. Furthermore, he praised the Federal Board of Revenue’s (FBR) reforms, which have led to a record Tax-to-GDP ratio of 10.24%.
While acknowledging these top-down successes, Mr. Hussain stressed the critical need for a nuanced approach to address persistent structural challenges and ensure the benefits are felt at the grassroots level. “The credibility of this economic recovery hinges on our ability to translate strong macroeconomic data into tangible improvements for all citizens,” he stated.
He cited the recent sharp surge in flour prices in Punjab as a prime example of the disconnect between national gains and ground-level realities, which highlights the fragility and complexity of the situation.
He also referenced the challenges faced by the textile sector, such as high energy costs and a significant cotton shortage, which threaten its otherwise strong export performance.
He said, “lies in a balanced strategy that addresses both top-down reforms and the pressing needs of the people, ensuring that economic progress is inclusive and resilient against risks like localized food security crises and implementation challenges”. The development of an industrial estate on Pakistan Steel Mills land in Karachi, which was approved by the Economic Coordination Committee (ECC), is a step in the right direction to attract investment and create jobs.
He concluded by emphasizing that sustaining this positive momentum requires a strategic focus on key growth sectors, such as IT, minerals, and value-added textiles, alongside a commitment to equitable distribution of economic benefits.
First flora conservation station launched in thar to protect biodiversity
There is a pressing need for the development and implementation of a comprehensive Biodiversity Conservation Action Plan to safeguard diverse plant species on the verge of extinction in Tharparkar.
Experts highlighted that these plant species are facing a threat due to overgrazing, expansion of unsustainable agriculture, and excessive extraction of commercially and medicinally valuable plants. To protect the area’s unique and critically endangered plant biodiversity, Pakistan’s first desert-region Flora Conservation Station has been launched in Thar Coal Block II on Thursday. Set up under the Partnership for Biodiversity Conservation in Thar, this conservation station has been established by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN), in collaboration with Sindh Engro Coal Mining Company (SECMC) and Thar Foundation.
With implementation support from local partner Baanhn Beli, the Flora Conservation Station builds on four years of IUCN-SECMC partnership and rigorous scientific research, which has included globally critically endangered vulture conservation efforts, ecological surveys, sustainable saline agriculture and saline aquaculture, and environmental education programs. This facility enhances their ongoing efforts in Thar for conservation and propagation of indigenous plants, restoration of degraded rangelands, and safeguarding ecosystems that are essential for the livelihoods of local communities.
Many of these species were documented during IUCN’s ecological baseline survey (2020–2022), which recorded more than 149 plant species, including two globally threatened species such as the Indian Bdellium Tree and Desert Teak. By strengthening livestock grazing resources and promoting sustainable vegetation use, the project is expected to deliver long-term ecological resilience in Tharparkar.
Speaking on the occasion, Qasim Siraj Soomro, Member of the Provincial Assembly from Tharparkar appreciated the initiative, stating: “The people of Thar deeply value these efforts which help protect the threatened wildlife, including the rich flora. Conserving our fast-declining plant species is not only vital for biodiversity but also for the livelihoods of our communities who depend on livestock and rangelands. This conservation station gives us hope that future generations will inherit a greener and more sustainable Thar”.
Mahmood Akhtar Cheema, Country Representative, IUCN Pakistan, explained that Thar is home to some of the most unique and threatened plant species in the world, including those listed on the IUCN Red List. This initiative contributes not only to local ecological resilience but also helps achieve global biodiversity targets. “It is high time we must support conservation initiatives and reconnect local communities to the threatened biodiversity”, he added.
Speaking on the occasion, Amir Iqbal, Chief Executive Officer SECMC, stated: “With its critical role in enhancing Pakistan’s energy security and rich ecological heritage, Thar stands as a beacon of hope, resilience, and national progress. As a socially responsible company, SECMC remains committed to uplifting local communities while leading sustainable development in the region. The launch of Pakistan’s first-ever Flora Conservation Station, in partnership with our valued partner IUCN, is another milestone in our journey to safeguard Thar’s unique biodiversity.”
Floods are not just a humanitarian tragedy but a profound economic threat. Mian Zahid Hussain
Mian Zahid Hussain, President Pakistan Businessmen and Intellectuals Forum & All Karachi Industrial Alliance, Chairman National Business Group Pakistan, Chairman Policy Advisory Board FPCCI, and Former Provincial Minister, said that Pakistan has recently shown commendable progress in its economic recovery, and we must acknowledge the hard-won gains in key areas. Mian Zahid Hussain said the government’s fiscal consolidation efforts have narrowed the fiscal deficit. We have also seen significant strides in taming inflation, which has fallen to 3.00 percent as of August 2025, the lowest half-yearly inflation since FY19. Despite these positive indicators, Hussain cautioned that the catastrophic 2025 monsoon floods threaten to reverse this progress. The floods are not just a humanitarian tragedy but a profound economic threat. The widespread destruction of key food crops like rice, maize, and vegetables represents a severe supply-side shock. He warned that this would likely lead to a sharp rise in domestic food prices, directly impacting household budgets and undermining the Government’s efforts to control inflation. Hussain further noted the apparent paradox of the Karachi Stock Exchange’s (PSX) record rally. While the market is betting on a massive post-disaster reconstruction effort, fueled by demand for cement and fertilizer, this optimism masks the immediate and significant risks. He stressed the urgent need for a strategic, two-pronged approach, and we must prioritize efficient flood relief and reconstruction while maintaining fiscal discipline. Simultaneously, the government must fast-track support for the agricultural sector to mitigate crop losses and prevent a food crisis. Our hard-won economic gains may be fragile unless a coordinated and swift response is made to protect them by reducing markup rates to 7% and lowering electricity prices to 9 cents, necessary for boosting exports to the next level.
Codebase and Mojopay launch $269b Digibanc™ Baas 2.0 to boost Ghana’s digital finance
Codebase Technologies, a global leader in digital banking technology, has entered a strategic partnership with Mojo Payments (MojoPay); to launch a next-generation digital banking platform, Digibanc™ BaaS 2.0, designed to accelerate innovation and financial inclusion across Ghana’s fast-growing financial sector. In Ghana alone, the serviceable addressable market for the Digibanc™ BaaS 2.0 platform includes over 240 financial institutions, with significant growth potential across Africa.
The initiative comes at a pivotal time for Ghana’s digital economy, with hundreds of financial institutions expected to benefit from the platform. In 2024, mobile money transactions reached GHS 3.0192 trillion (USD 257 billion)1, while total loans issued amounted to USD 6,499 billion2. With mobile connections now at 113% of the population3 and more Ghanaians managing their finances through digital and mobile channels, the opportunity is immense. Yet despite this momentum, many institutions remain constrained by legacy infrastructure, the high cost of technology ownership, and operational complexity. The estimated USD 5 billion SME financing gap4 is a clear example of where tailored financial services are urgently needed and where solutions enabled by our BaaS 2.0 platform can help institutions deliver more accessible, innovative credit to drive inclusive growth.
The new Digibanc™ BaaS 2.0 Platform, powered by Codebase Technologies’ award-winning Digibanc™ delivers cloud-native, API-first digital banking capabilities through a flexible and cost-efficient model, and leverages MojoPay’s advanced payments infrastructure to facilitate seamless and intuitive experiences, making it easier for banking customers to transact. Engineered to eliminate complexity and reduce deployment time, the platform empowers financial institutions, start-ups and fintechs to digitize faster and launch new experiences without the burden of large capital expenditure or long development cycles.
Speaking on the joint venture partnership, Omar Mansur, Managing Director APAC of Codebase Technologies, said, “This collaboration represents a major step in redefining how digital banking is delivered across Africa. Ghana is a market full of promise, with the right conditions for scale and innovation. Together with MojoPay, we’re removing the traditional barriers to entry and giving institutions the tools they need to lead in a digital-first economy.”
The platform includes a broad spectrum of digital banking capabilities, ranging from customer onboarding and core banking to cards, payments, lending, and customer engagement tools, all delivered through a customer-centric, unified SaaS 2.0 environment. Its design enables rapid scalability, giving institutions the ability to tailor services to their customers’ evolving expectations without complex integrations or heavy IT investment.
“Financial institutions across Ghana are ready to modernize, but many lack the technical infrastructure to do so efficiently. By combining our regional presence with Codebase Technologies’ proven track record and cutting-edge digital banking platform, we’re unlocking a new era of affordable, scalable innovation. This is about giving our clients a faster, smarter way to go digital, without trade-offs,” said Saqib Nazir, CEO of MojoPay.
The partnership is expected to have a lasting impact on the region’s financial services landscape through directly supporting national goals around financial inclusion, digital transformation, and economic empowerment.
This initiative reflects Codebase Technologies global mission of “Building What Comes Next,” a commitment to delivering future-ready digital banking infrastructure that empowers institutions to lead in an increasingly digital world.
Comprehensive Logistics Reforms Much Needed to Boost Pakistan’s Competitiveness. Mian Zahid Hussain
Mian Zahid Hussain, President Pakistan Businessmen and Intellectuals Forum, Chairman National Business Group Pakistan (NBG), President All Karachi Industrial Alliance, and Chairman Policy Advisory Board of the Federation of Pakistan Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FPCCI) has emphasized the urgent need for a cohesive national logistics strategy to unlock Pakistan’s trade potential. Speaking to the businessmen, he said that Pakistan’s strategic location and vast coastline have made it a central regional logistics and maritime hub. However, despite this potential, the country’s logistics sector remains underdeveloped and riddled with inefficiencies. Pakistan’s sharp decline was reflected in the World Bank’s Logistics Performance Index (LPI), where its ranking plummeted from 68 in 2016 to 122 in 2018. This index places Pakistan significantly behind regional peers like Vietnam (39), India (44), and Bangladesh (100).
Mian Zahid Hussain pointed out critical weaknesses in customs efficiency, infrastructure quality, and a comprehensive national strategy as key barriers to progress. Mian Zahid Hussain emphasized that these inefficiencies inflate production costs by nearly 30% and are estimated to cost the economy 4–6% of GDP annually.
To reverse this trend, Mian Zahid Hussain, recommend a series of comprehensive reforms, these include the full and swift implementation of the Pakistan Land Port Authority Act 2025 to create a “one-window” solution for trade facilitation. Leveraging technology like the Faceless Customs Assessment system to streamline procedures and reduce delays, including need to modernize ports, strengthen the Pakistan National Shipping Corporation (PNSC), and invest in a national cold chain network to support exports, while capacity exists, it is the enabling systems—regulatory frameworks, infrastructure, and technology—that remain weak, said Mian Zahid Hussain. By addressing these gaps strategically, Pakistan can transform its logistics sector from a bottleneck into a powerful engine for sustainable, export-driven growth and global competitiveness.
Mian Zahid Hussain concluded that a cohesive national strategy is essential to turn logistics into a central driver of Pakistan’s trade policy.