Pakistan and Egypt explore JVS in ports, logistics
Pakistan and Egypt have agreed to deepen cooperation in maritime and industrial sectors, aiming to expand joint ventures and boost their blue economies.
According to an official statement issued on Wednesday, the understanding was reached during a meeting between Federal Minister for Maritime Affairs Muhammad Junaid Anwar Chaudhry and Egypt’s Ambassador to Pakistan, Dr Ihab Mohamed Abdelhamid Hassan, on Wednesday.
Both sides reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening economic and maritime ties, discussing collaboration in port development, shipping, logistics, and industrial ventures. The talks focused on tapping the growing potential of the blue economy, seen as a key driver for sustainable growth and regional trade.
Chaudhry said Pakistan was working to improve regional connectivity through roads, railways, and sea routes. “We are establishing stronger links with Central Asian states and East African countries, and can further enhance maritime connectivity with Egypt,” he said.
SBP projects gdp growth in fy2026
Persistent fiscal imbalances, low domestic savings, weak productivity, and climate-related shocks remain critical hurdles preventing sustainable progress, noted the State Bank of Pakistan (SBP) in its Annual Report on the State of the Economy 2024-25.
The SBP projects GDP growth in FY26 at 3.25 to 4.25 percent, near the lower end of its forecast range, while inflation is expected to hover around 5 to 7 percent. The current account deficit is projected at 0 to 1 percent of GDP, indicating stability in the external sector. Yet, the central bank cautioned that flood-induced agricultural losses, high energy costs, and global trade uncertainty could derail these gains.
The recent floods in Punjab and Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa submerged vast farmlands, damaging key kharif crops such as rice, cotton, maize, and sugarcane. The SBP warns that the ensuing supply chain disruptions may trigger inflationary pressures and weaken raw material availability for agro-based industries. The increased reconstruction spending, although growth-supportive, could also strain fiscal space already constrained by large debt repayments.
Gold hits register highs globally and in Pakistan amid trade tensions
Gold prices surged sharply in both international and local markets, reaching unprecedented levels amid geopolitical tensions and strong demand.
Spot gold prices surpassed $4,300 per ounce for the first time on Thursday, gaining 7.6 percent previous week amid renewed US-China trade tensions and expectations of a US interest rate cut. On Friday, gold further jumped by $141 per ounce, reaching a new all-time high of $4,358 per ounce.
In Pakistan’s bullion markets, the price of 24-carat gold per tola rose by Rs 14,100 to Rs 456,900, while per 10 grams gold increased by Rs 12,089, reaching Rs 391,718, both record highs.
Pakistan needs major reforms in examinations system: Waqar
In Pakistan the examination system presently needs major reforms to meet modern educational standards. For decades, students have been encouraged to memorize rather than understand a concept, which limits creativity and critical thinking, Mr. Waqar Jalil an educationalist said. To improve this, examinations should focus on conceptual and analytical learning instead of rote memorization. The use of digital technologies such as online testing, e-marking, and computerized grading can bring transparency and fairness. He further said that teachers and examiners must be trained regularly to design fair and meaningful papers. Moreover, the inclusion of continuous assessments like assignments, projects, and presentations will reduce exam pressure and promote real learning, he added.
SBP reserves rise by $21mn to $14.44bn
Pakistan’s foreign exchange reserves recorded a marginal increase during the week ended October 10, 2025, according to data released by the State Bank of Pakistan (SBP).
The SBP’s reserves rose by $21 million, reaching $14,440.8 million, up from $14,419.8 million a week earlier. Overall, the country’s total liquid foreign reserves stood at $19,810.5 million as of October 10. Of the total, commercial banks held $5,369.7 million in net foreign reserves, while the SBP’s share stood at $14,440.8 million.
Moreover, the Pakistani rupee recorded a slight appreciation against the US dollar in the inter-bank market on Thursday. By the end of the trading session, the local currency closed at 281.11 per dollar, gaining Rs0.01 from the previous day’s rate. On Wednesday, the rupee had settled at 281.12, according to the SBP data.
Gold extended its record-breaking rally, hitting another all-time high in Pakistan, as global investors sought refuge in the precious metal amid rising US-China trade tensions and a prolonged US government shutdown.
According to the All Pakistan Sarafa Gems and Jewellers Association, the price of 24-karat gold surged by Rs1,900 per tola, reaching Rs442,800, while the rate for 10 grams rose by Rs1,629 to Rs379,629.
FPCCI leader urges policymakers to adopt district economy
FPCCI leader SM Tanveer has urged policymakers and stakeholders to adopt the District Economy concept of the Federation of Pakistan
Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FPCCI) and work towards creating a more decentralised and inclusive economic framework.
“By doing so, we can unlock the true potential of our nation and build a more prosperous and equitable society for all citizens,” he stressed in a statement released on Wednesday.
To address the economic challenges of Pakistan, Tanveer said, the FPCCI has developed a groundbreaking concept – the District Economy. This innovative approach aims to decentralise economic decision-making, empower local communities and unlock the untapped potential of Pakistan’s districts.
The FPCCI leader emphasised that the economy has been plagued by centralised decision-making for decades, which has stifled local innovation, hindered entrepreneurship and limited the opportunities for growth. “The consequences are evident in our sluggish economic progress and widening regional disparities.”