PTCL and Mercantile join forces to drive Pakistan’s Digital Transformation
Pakistan’s largest telecommunications and integrated ICT services provider, PTCL Group (PTCL & Ufone 4G), has signed a strategic partnership with Apple’s authorised distributor and service provider in Pakistan, Mercantile, to offer Apple’s complete product range to its enterprise customers nationwide.
The partnership was signed by Asif Ahmad, Group Chief Business Solutions Officer, PTCL & Ufone 4G, and Nauman Durrani, CEO Pakistan, SVP Sage – Mercantile on the sidelines of GITEX Global 2025 in Dubai. President & Group CEO Hatem Bamatraf was also present at the signing, along with senior management from both sides. The agreement allows PTCL Group and Mercantile to jointly work toward expanding access to cutting-edge technology, enhancing customer confidence through extended support services, strengthening go-to-market capabilities with joint initiatives, and amplifying market presence through collaborative campaigns.
The partnership will also open avenues for innovative financing models through the Device as a Service (DaaS) model that empowers organisations and employees alike, while reducing upfront investment barriers.
Sharing his thoughts regarding the partnership, Asif Ahmad, Group Chief Business Solutions Officer, PTCL & Ufone 4G, said, “We are glad to expand our partnership to enhance access to Apple’s cutting-edge technology for our business customers. We are adding further value by embedding the DaaS framework to make the enterprise mobility smarter, scalable, and financially viable. The initiative stems from PTCL Group’s firm confidence in the undisputed power of innovative technology to transform businesses.”
Also commenting on the development, Nauman Durrani, CEO Pakistan, SVP Sage – Mercantile said, “We are happy to extend Apple’s high-quality products to Pakistan’s wider business community through PTCL Group’s nationwide network. Apple’s products and services are synonymous with quality and customer confidence, which can accelerate the process of digitisation across Pakistan’s enterprise sector for its growth and sustainability. The shared vision of Mercantile and PTCL Group has seamlessly united our efforts in this pursuit and the invaluable support of the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) – reflects our collective drive to advance Pakistan’s digital future.”
The collaboration helps PTCL Group to successfully combine global technology leadership with innovative delivery models to accelerate the digital transformation of enterprises across Pakistan.
IMF deal brings relief but bigger reforms ahead: Mian Zahid
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 Information Technology, on October 17 expressed cautious optimism following the announcement of a Staff-Level Agreement (SLA) with the International Monetary Fund (IMF). The agreement, which concludes the second review of the Extended Fund Facility (EFF) and the first review of the Resilience and Sustainability Facility (RSF), is set to unlock a combined $1.2 billion installment.
In a statement, Mian Zahid Hussain, congratulated the finance minister Mohammed Aurangzeb Khan and his economic team on securing the deal successfully. “This SLA is a testament to the difficult stabilization measures Pakistan has undertaken. The disbursement, comprising $1.0 billion from the EFF and $200 million from the RSF, is not just a financial injection; it is a critical signal of confidence to international markets and bilateral partners,” he said.
Hussain noted the positive macroeconomic indicators acknowledged by IMF, including the strengthening of external buffers, which have seen SBP’s foreign exchange reserves climb to $14.44 billion. He also pointed to the Fund’s recognition of a fiscal primary balance that is “surpassing program targets” and a current account that recorded its first surplus in 14 years during FY25, as key achievements.
However, Mian Zahid Hussain warned that this hard-won stability remains fragile and the SLA is not the finish line, but the start of a more difficult phase. “The business community understands that this agreement is contingent on a new set of stringent commitments. The government’s resolve to meet the FY26 budget primary surplus target of 1.6 percent of GDP will be severely tested,” stated Hussain. “This requires a monumental effort in revenue mobilization, and it must be achieved by broadening the tax base, not by further harassing existing taxpayers.”
Mian Zahid Hussain highlighted the persistent challenges in the energy sector, noting the IMF’s continued emphasis on “timely tariff adjustments.” He stressed, “While cost recovery is necessary, it is not a sustainable solution. The circular debt can only be permanently resolved through a deep and decisive reform of our power distribution companies (DISCOs) and to privatize loss-making State-Owned Enterprises (SOEs) that drain the exchequer.”
He also pointed to the latest trade figures as a cause for concern. “While the current account has seen a surplus, the trade deficit for September 2025 alone stood at $3.4 billion, with imports of $5.9 billion far outpacing exports of $2.5 billion. This indicates that our stability is still built more on import compression than on a genuine, export-led boom.”
“The government must use the breathing room provided by this $1.2 billion tranche to make the tough, structural decisions we have delayed for decades. This is the moment to accelerate the privatization agenda and implement reforms that enhance productivity and global competitiveness, he concluded”.
DWP Group honors emerging talent at Tameer-e-Mustaqbil graduation ceremony 2025
DWP Group successfully celebrated the graduation ceremony of its Tameer-e-Mustaqbil internship program in Lahore, marking the completion of an enriching journey for seven talented internees from the company’s Tech Division.
The ceremony served as a testament to DWP Group’s commitment to nurturing young talent and equipping Pakistan’s youth with the skills, mentorship, and corporate exposure needed to thrive in today’s dynamic professional landscape.
Leadership from multiple departments attended the event, including Taha Muhammad Naseem, Director, DWP Group, Rohail Basir, Chief Operating Officer, DWP Technologies, Naeem Bashir, General Manager Sales, Sabah-ud-Din Rana, Shoaib Younus, Head of Marketing, and Shakeela Qureshi, Head of Human Resources.
Speaking on the occasion, Taha Muhammad Naseem, Director, DWP Group, said, “At DWP Group, we believe that the future of Pakistan lies in empowering its youth with the right skills and opportunities. The Tameer-e-Mustaqbil program is designed to bridge the gap between academia and industry by offering real-world experience, mentorship, and a platform for innovation. Seeing these young individuals grow into confident professionals is a proud moment for all of us.”
Rohail Basir, Chief Operating Officer, DWP Technologies, added, “Our vision behind Tameer-e-Mustaqbil is to cultivate future-ready professionals who can lead with creativity and purpose. Each internee has shown remarkable potential and commitment throughout the program, and we are confident that they will carry forward DWP’s values of excellence and innovation in their future endeavors.”
Through Tameer-e-Mustaqbil, DWP Group continues to invest in the next generation of professionals by providing cross-functional exposure, hands-on training, and direct mentorship from industry leaders. The program’s structure, which includes weekly learning labs, real-time projects, and “Intern Diaries”, ensures a well-rounded learning experience designed to prepare participants for the challenges of the modern workplace.
The graduation of the 2025 cohort not only marks the successful completion of an internship but also symbolizes the beginning of promising careers, fueled by ambition, learning, and a shared vision for Pakistan’s bright future.
Pak-Qatar Asset Management company earns positive outlook from PACRA
Pak-Qatar Asset Management Company Limited (PQAMC) has achieved an upgrade to AM2 with a Positive Outlook from Pakistan Credit Rating Agency (PACRA), a recognition earned through the company’s hard work, consistency, and unwavering commitment to excellence in Islamic fund management. The upgrade reflects PQAMC’s strong governance framework, disciplined investment approach, and sustained growth momentum within Pakistan’s Islamic asset management sector.
This milestone underscores PQAMC’s exceptional performance and rapid expansion in Pakistan’s Islamic asset management landscape. During FY2025, the company achieved an impressive 117% year-on-year growth in Assets Under Management (AUMs), reaffirming its position as one of the fastest-growing Islamic asset management companies in the country. Its flagship Pak-Qatar Income Plan (PQMIP) has also delivered outstanding results, earning an upgrade from A+ to AA– by PACRA and recording dividends and annualized yields exceeding 20% in multiple months during FY2024–25.
Commenting on the development, Mr. Farhan Shaukat, Chief Executive Officer of PQAMC, said: “The upgraded outlook by PACRA and our exceptional growth performance are both reflections of our team’s commitment to excellence and the trust placed in us by our investors. At PQAMC, we remain focused on delivering sustainable, Shariah-compliant investment opportunities built on transparency, performance, and ethical wealth creation.”
As part of the Pak-Qatar Group, Pakistan’s premier and pioneer Islamic financial services group, PQAMC continues to expand its footprint by offering a diverse range of Shariah-compliant funds and investment plans catering to both retail and institutional investors. These include Equity, Income, Money Market, and Asset Allocation Funds, all maintaining strong PACRA ratings and stable performance track records.
PQAMC remains committed to further strengthening its market position by broadening investor access to ethical investment avenues, enhancing service quality, and supporting the long-term development of Pakistan’s Islamic financial landscape.
ChildLife Foundation Wins Best Place to Work for Women in Pakistan Award (2025)
The Pakistan Society of Human Resource Management (PSHRM) and Engage Consulting have named ChildLife Foundation the Best Place to Work for Women in Pakistan — 2025. The recognition reflects the Foundation’s commitment to gender-inclusive policies, safe workplaces, and career development for women. The award ceremony was held recently in Karachi.
Part of the nationwide Best Place To Work study, the award recognizes workplace processes and policies that boost employee engagement and promote gender-inclusive practices, and it acknowledges ChildLife’s sustained commitment in this area.
Women comprise 71% of ChildLife’s workforce, and 52% of leadership roles. Most of the organization’s on-ground teams — including doctors, nurses, and pharmacists — are women who translate ChildLife’s commitment to “Save Every Child” into action by delivering lifesaving care to children every day across Pakistan.
In partnership with the government, ChildLife Foundation provides free, 24/7 emergency care to more than 2 million children annually. Through its network of Children’s Emergency Rooms (ERs) and Telemedicine Satellite Centers (TSCs) in over 300 public hospitals across Pakistan, the Foundation delivers timely, lifesaving treatment to children every day.
Dubai Islamic Bank and Fauree Tech launch Pakistan’s first multi-product shariah-compliant digital supply chain finance platform
Dubai Islamic Bank Pakistan Limited (DIBPL), one of the country’s leading Islamic banks, has partnered with Fauree Tech (Pvt.) Ltd., Pakistan’s pioneering digital supply chain finance platform, to launch the nation’s first-ever multi-product, fully Shariah-compliant Digital Supply Chain Finance (DSCF) platform.
The signing ceremony took place in Karachi in the presence of senior leadership from both organizations. Dubai Islamic Bank was represented by Mr. Muhammad Ali Gulfaraz, Chief Executive Officer; Mr. Mujahid Zuberi, Head of Corporate & Investment Banking; and Mr. Zaka Ur Rehman, Chief Digital Officer. Fauree Tech was represented by Mr. Azhar Tasadduq, Chief Executive Officer; Mr. Suhaib Dar, Director & Chief Business Officer; and Mr. Ezaaz Waseem, Head of Projects.
Through this collaboration, DIB and Fauree will introduce a comprehensive suite of Islamic supply chain finance products, including Tijarah Finance and the Export Finance Scheme (EFS) for indirect exporters. The platform will enable corporates, suppliers, and distributors to access fast, transparent, and fully digital financing solutions aligned with Shariah principles and the State Bank of Pakistan’s regulatory framework.
Speaking on the occasion, Mr. Muhammad Ali Gulfaraz, CEO, Dubai Islamic Bank Pakistan, said: “Supply chain financing is an important focus area for us. This partnership with Fauree reflects our commitment to driving digital transformation and expanding access to Shariah-compliant supply chain financing solutions for corporates and SMEs. Enabling more financing for SMEs is necessary to support economic growth in Pakistan. Through such collaboration, we aim to deliver innovative financial solutions to unlock value for our customers and our shareholders.”
Mr. Azhar Tasadduq, CEO, Fauree Tech, added: “This agreement with Dubai Islamic Bank marks a major milestone in Pakistan’s journey toward digital, Shariah-compliant financing. Fauree’s platform ensures transparency, compliance, and scalability, offering banks the tools to expand their financing portfolios, while enabling SMEs and exporters to seamlessly access liquidity.”
This strategic collaboration will strengthen Pakistan’s real economy by supporting SMEs, exporters, and suppliers through innovative Islamic financing solutions.
NFL supports children’s awareness of climate action through storytelling
In an effort to promote environmental consciousness among young readers, National Foods Limited (NFL) has supported the launch of a new children’s storybook, “Sheena’s Flight – A Journey Through Pakistan’s Changing Waters,” authored by Nusser Sayeed, CEO and Founder of GoRead.pk. The book uses the power of storytelling to raise children’s awareness about climate action, water conservation, and sustainability, encouraging them to become active stewards of the planet.
The book both in Urdu and English takes children on a captivating journey across Pakistan’s landscapes — from the Baltoro Glacier and River Indus to the Thar Desert and mangrove forests — highlighting how climate change and pollution are threatening the country’s vital water resources.
Through the eyes of Sheena and her wise owl companion, Wyzoo, the story simplifies complex issues like global warming, deforestation, and water scarcity, turning them into a relatable and empowering tale. The book inspires children to become part of the solution by forming “Climate Smart Communities” and adopting everyday habits that promote sustainability.
Speaking at the gathering, Mr. Abrar Hasan, Global CEO of National Foods Limited, said, “Storytelling is at the heart of culture, shaping how communities think, act, and behave. National Foods, an evolving Pakistani multinational, has supported social and community betterment for over 50 years. We are honoured to collaborate with GoRead.pk for Sheena’s Flight — a story focused on Climate Literacy and Education. National Foods believes education is a powerful tool for long-term community-driven change, and we are proud to support women-led organizations creating impactful change.”
Addressing the audience, Ms. Nusser Sayeed shared, “GoRead.pk continues to lead impactful storytelling initiatives for children in underserved communities, aiming to foster critical thinking, empathy, and environmental stewardship through joyful learning experiences.”
Illustrated by Saleha Ghani, the book combines vivid artwork with engaging narration, making environmental education both fun and meaningful. Its additional features — including “Did You Know?” fact pages, comprehension questions, and a glossary — make it a valuable resource for schools and families alike.
As a token of appreciation, Sheena’s Flight was presented to attending young readers, parents, and sustainability advocates. The book is now available for purchase via GoRead.pk, enabling families, educators, and institutions nationwide to inspire a new generation of environmentally conscious citizens.
Al Baraka Bank Hosts Olive Summit 2.0 for the Second Consecutive Year to Accelerate Pakistan’s Olive Revolution
Al Baraka Bank (Pakistan) Limited, in collaboration with the National Alliance for Safe Food, successfully organized the “Al Baraka Pakistan Olive Summit 2.0” in Islamabad for the second consecutive year, reaffirming its commitment to advancing sustainable agriculture and developing Pakistan’s olive industry.
The event brought together leading experts, policymakers, and international stakeholders to explore opportunities for investment, innovation, and value chain development in Pakistan’s emerging olive sector. The summit was graced by Rana Tanveer Hussain, Federal Minister for National Food Security and Research, as the Chief Guest, along with Mr. Muhammad Atif Hanif, CEO – Al Baraka Bank (Pakistan) Limited, Federal Ministers, and Ambassadors from Turkey, Saudi Arabia, Italy, Bahrain, Spain, Indonesia, and Malaysia.
With 10 million acres of cultivable land suitable for olive farming, only 55,000 acres have been developed so far. Out of a total requirement of 1.3 billion olive plants, 7 million have been planted. At full potential, Pakistan’s olive sector could generate over USD 3 billion annually through olive oil production — driving rural prosperity, employment, and export growth.
Speaking at the event, Mr. Muhammad Atif Hanif stated, “This initiative is not just about cultivating olives—it’s about cultivating opportunity, resilience, and prosperity.” He reaffirmed Al Baraka Bank’s commitment to empowering farmers, promoting agricultural sustainability, and enabling rural economic transformation through dedicated financing solutions and strategic global partnerships.
Through the Olive Summit 2.0, Al Baraka Bank (Pakistan) Limited continues to lead efforts in agriculture-led economic development, positioning the olive sector as a national priority for achieving a sustainable and self-reliant future for Pakistan
Begin secures global streaming rights for Pakistan Idol
Begin, the UAE-based OTT platform, has acquired the global streaming rights for Pakistan Idol, one of South Asia’s most celebrated music reality formats. The move marks a major step in Begin’s strategy to bring South Asian entertainment to international audiences while amplifying local talent on a global stage.
Produced under license from Fremantle, the global entertainment powerhouse behind the Idol franchise, Pakistan Idol continues the legacy of one of the world’s most successful television formats. The show has been instrumental in discovering new voices and spotlighting the remarkable depth of musical talent across Pakistan.
Airing every Saturday and Sunday across seven major television channels, Geo TV, PTV, Green Entertainment TV, Express Entertainment, APlus Entertainment, Aur Life, and Aan TV, Pakistan Idol has become a weekly national television event, drawing strong audience engagement and social media buzz.
While Pakistan Idol has already been available for streaming in Pakistan, it will now be accessible globally through the Begin app in the United States, Canada, Saudi Arabia, and the United Arab Emirates. Viewers in other regions, including the United Kingdom, Germany, India, Australia, South Africa, and Nigeria, can stream the show directly on begin.watch, expanding its reach to audiences across multiple continents.
Locally, streaming will start at 8 PM and will be available live on Tapmad, Daraz, Zong, and Begin.
“The international distribution of Pakistan Idol demonstrates how far South Asian entertainment has come in reaching global audiences,” said Zoya Merchant, Director at MHL. “We are proud to see a format rooted in local culture and talent become accessible to viewers worldwide. This collaboration with Begin represents an important step toward integrating Pakistani creativity into the broader entertainment ecosystem.”
“At Begin, our focus is on curating content that connects communities through shared cultural experiences,” said Jonathan Mark, Co-Founding CEO of Begin. “Pakistan Idol embodies the kind of storytelling and talent that transcend geography. Making it available worldwide aligns with our vision of bringing authentic South Asian voices to a truly global stage.”
The addition of Pakistan Idol further strengthens Begin’s content slate as the platform continues to expand its South Asian library and deepen its engagement with international audiences. With a growing catalogue of premium originals and licensed formats, Begin aims to position itself as a key player in global streaming for regional entertainment.
Toyota shows interest in commercial import of used cars under new policy
Indus Motor Company (IMC), the local assembler of Toyota vehicles, express interest in the commercial import of used cars, in line with the government’s recently introduced policy.
The company has approached the Engineering Development Board (EDB), seeking clarity on the procedure, required documentation, and compliance steps necessary to initiate commercial imports of used vehicles.
Correspondence mentioned that while IMC’s primary focus remains on sustaining and expanding local CKD (Completely Knocked Down) operations which contribute to employment generation, localization, and national value addition — it is prepared, albeit reluctantly, to explore the option of importing used vehicles commercially, as permitted under the current policy framework.
The company also emphasized its capacity to support such imports through a nationwide network of 58 dealerships, staffed by trained technicians and engineers. This infrastructure, it said, ensures quality aftersales service and long-term reliability for consumers.
IMC underscored the importance of adhering fully to regulatory requirements and sought EDB’s guidance on the procedural roadmap and qualitative confirmations needed for compliance.
This development comes after the Ministry of Commerce issued SRO 1895(I)/2025 on June 30, allowing the commercial import of used vehicles under HS Codes 8702, 8703, 8704, and 8711.
National Foods and GoRead.pk launch children’s book on climate action
In a significant step toward promoting environmental awareness and water-saving habits among children, National Foods Limited (NFL), in collaboration with GoRead.pk, has launched a children’s story book in both Urdu and English, “Sheena’s Flight- A Journey Through Pakistan’s Changing Waters”.
The initiative, a part of National Foods’ ongoing commitment to CSR and sustainability, included a book reading session at The Dawood Foundation MagnifiScience Centre in Karachi. “Storytelling is at the heart of culture, shaping how communities think, act, and behave. National Foods, an evolving Pakistani multinational, has supported social and community betterment for over 50 years. We are honoured to collaborate with GoReadpk for Sheena’s Flight – a story focused on Climate Literacy and Education. National Foods believes education is a powerful tool for long-term community driven change, and we are proud to support women-led organizations creating impactful change,” said Mr. Abrar Hasan, Global CEO, National Foods Limited, at the launch.
Authored by Nusser Sayeed, CEO & Founder of GoRead.pk, and Illustrated by Saleha Ghani Sheena’s Flight is a children’s storybook that introduces young readers to climate change, the need for a climate-smart community, and the importance of water-saving habits. The story adopts a thoughtful yet accessible approach to fostering environmental consciousness in readers, and highlights areas of Pakistan most affected by Climate change.
Speaking at the event, Ms. Nusser Sayeed added, “GoRead.pk continues to lead impactful storytelling initiatives for children in underserved communities, aiming to foster critical thinking, empathy, and environmental stewardship through joyful learning experiences.”
The event was attended by children aged 6 –12 years, guests from corporate and private sectors, along with representatives from GoRead.pk, The Dawood Foundation, and the leadership of National Foods. At this occasion, Favad Soomro, CEO of The Dawood Foundation, also shared, “At the MagnifiScience Centre, our mission is to spark curiosity and make learning engaging and accessible for children. National Foods’ launch of Sheena’s Flight aligns with our vision of combining science, education, and creativity to address real-world challenges like climate change”
As a token of appreciation, Sheena’s Flight was given as a souvenir to the attending young readers, parents, and sustainability advocates. The book is now also available for purchase through the official GoRead.pk website, allowing families, educators, and institutions nationwide to access it.
Mobilink Bank wins ‘best in industry – banking’ at best place to work Pakistan Awards 2025
Pakistan’s leading digital microfinance bank, Mobilink Bank, has been recognized as the ‘Best Place to Work’ in Pakistan’s banking industry at the Best Place to Work Pakistan Awards 2025, one of the most prestigious & celebrated awards in Pakistan’s HR fraternity. The awards are an initiative of the Pakistan Society of Human Resource Management (PSHRM), powered by Engage Consulting.
The achievement reaffirms the Bank’s steadfast commitment to cultivating an enabling and inclusive organizational culture that nurtures talent, supports professional growth, and ensures a healthy work-life balance, thereby promoting employee satisfaction and well-being.
Mobilink Bank received the award at a ceremony held in Karachi, surpassing several leading banks in the final round, in a highly competitive category. The recognition is the result of a comprehensive, data-driven assessment led by Engage Consulting Pakistan, which evaluated both employee feedback and organizational excellence.
The selection was based on multiple dimensions, including employee experience and engagement, leadership and organizational culture, people policies and HR practices, diversity, equity, and inclusion, as well as employer brand perception compared to industry benchmarks. Only organizations that scored exceptionally well across all these areas received the title, making Mobilink Bank’s win a powerful reflection of its people-first approach.
Commenting on the achievement, Haaris Mahmood Chaudhary, President & CEO, Mobilink Bank, said, “This award belongs entirely to our people: the driving force behind Mobilink Bank’s purpose and progress. We’ve always believed in a people-first approach as it forms the foundation of a truly great workplace, and this recognition reaffirms that we’re on the right path. Being named the best in the industry only strengthens our resolve to keep raising the bar.”
Aleena Tanvir, Chief People Officer, Mobilink Bank, said, “This award stands as proof of the culture we’ve built together, anchored in trust, empathy, and inclusion – where every individual has the space to grow and belong. When people feel seen and supported, excellence naturally follows.”
The award also builds on Mobilink Bank’s Top Employer Certification received earlier this year, further positioning the Bank as one of the most progressive and employee-centric institutions in the country.
Mian Zahid Hussain Expresses Grave Concern Over Widening Trade Deficit
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 Information Technology, today voiced serious concern over the sharp deterioration of Pakistan’s external sector, warning that the aggressive expansion of the trade deficit in the first quarter of fiscal year 2026 poses a significant threat to the nation’s economic stability.
Mian Zahid Hussain highlighted alarming data showing the goods trade deficit rose 32.9% year-on-year to $9.37 billion in Q1 July–September 2025, reversing previous gains. September alone saw a 46% jump to $3.34 billion.
Mian Zahid Hussain addressed the business community, noting that the growing trade gap harms economic resilience. Imports rose 13.5% to $16.97 billion this quarter, while exports fell 3.8% to $7.6 billion, reflecting challenges from high input and energy costs. The services trade deficit also grew 21.9% year-on-year to $437 million in August 2025.
Mian Zahid Hussain warned that the current path is putting great pressure on Pakistan’s foreign exchange reserves, which now cover only about three months of imports. He stressed that if the deficit continues, it will heavily strain the State Bank’s ability to maintain external buffers.
Mian Zahid Hussain called on the government to act swiftly with focused measures: cut non-essential imports sharply and support exporters facing rising costs. Reducing energy costs for export industries is vital for economic survival and growth, ensuring we earn the foreign exchange needed to reduce the growing trade deficit.