فیچرڈ

KARACHI: Pakistan’s information technology (IT) sector achieved a historic milestone in the fiscal year 2025-26, with IT and IT-enabled services (ITeS) exports reaching a record $4.6 billion, marking an impressive 21 percent increase from the previous year’s $3.81 billion. Although the sector narrowly missed the government’s $5 billion export target, the achievement reinforces Pakistan’s position as one of the country’s fastest-growing export industries and strengthens its long-term goal of reaching $10 billion in IT exports by FY2028-29. Industry experts believe the strong performance reflects the steady expansion of Pakistan’s digital economy, driven by a growing pool of skilled professionals, rising demand for remote services, improved internet infrastructure and favourable tax incentives. However, they also caution that the sector must overcome structural challenges and shift towards innovation-led growth to sustain momentum. Pakistan is home to more than 600,000 IT professionals and freelancers, alongside tens of thousands of registered software and IT-enabled services companies operating from major technology hubs in Karachi, Lahore and Islamabad. Secondary cities such as Faisalabad, Sialkot and Sukkur are also emerging as important contributors to the country’s digital workforce. Software development, business process outsourcing (BPO), enterprise technology services, call centres and freelancing remain the backbone of Pakistan’s IT exports. Meanwhile, demand for advanced services including artificial intelligence (AI), cybersecurity, cloud computing, automation and digital consulting is expanding rapidly as global businesses seek specialised technology solutions. The United States continues to be Pakistan’s largest export destination for IT services, followed by the United Kingdom, the Gulf region, Europe, Canada and several Asian markets. Experts say significant opportunities remain untapped in Saudi Arabia, the UAE, Qatar, Germany, Japan, South Korea, Australia, Africa and Central Asia, particularly in high-value technology sectors. Industry leaders stress that Pakistan must diversify both its export markets and service offerings. They argue that relying mainly on traditional software development and low-cost outsourcing will limit future growth, while greater investment in AI-powered solutions, enterprise software, cybersecurity and digital transformation services can significantly increase export earnings. Freelancers have also emerged as a major force in Pakistan’s digital economy, contributing an estimated $1.1 billion, or roughly a quarter of total IT exports, during FY2025-26. Online platforms have enabled thousands of professionals to access global clients, creating new employment opportunities and boosting foreign exchange inflows. Beyond export revenues, the sector continues to generate employment, with thousands of technical positions available across the country. The expansion of remote work has also increased opportunities for women and professionals living outside major urban centres. Experts believe the next phase of growth depends on moving beyond providing outsourced services to creating globally competitive technology products and intellectual property. They argue that Pakistan must position itself as a producer of innovation rather than simply a destination for low-cost software development. The country’s AI ambitions are also gaining momentum. Under the National AI Policy 2025, Pakistan plans to establish AI centres of excellence, launch dedicated funding programmes, expand public-sector AI adoption and train around one million people in AI-related skills by 2030. New AI hubs are also being developed to support startups and accelerate innovation. International partnerships are expected to play a key role in this transformation. Pakistan has strengthened technology cooperation with China through joint AI and IT initiatives and recently became a founding member of the World Artificial Intelligence Cooperation Organisation (WAICO). At the same time, interest from the United States has grown, with American investors pledging more than $20 million for Pakistan’s technology sector during a recent investment conference. Connectivity has also improved through expanded submarine cable capacity, cross-border fibre links and stronger cloud infrastructure, making it easier for local companies to deliver digital services worldwide. Despite the progress, industry stakeholders warn that policy uncertainty, foreign exchange restrictions, internet disruptions, energy costs, weak intellectual property protection and limited access to global payment systems continue to hinder faster growth. They believe addressing these challenges while promoting innovation and AI-driven technologies will be essential if Pakistan hopes to transform its record-breaking IT industry into a global technology powerhouse.

  The Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP) government has ordered the immediate closure of all mines where explosive materials are used, as part of a broader effort to strengthen security and tighten oversight of potentially hazardous substances across the province. According to official directives issued by the Provincial Home Department in Peshawar, all district administrations have been instructed to take immediate action and ensure strict implementation of the government’s orders. The directive emphasizes the need for swift compliance and close coordination among local authorities to enforce the new measures without delay. The Home Department has also directed all districts to prepare and submit comprehensive lists of mines operating within their jurisdictions. These lists will distinguish between mines that use explosives and those that do not. Officials have been instructed to classify all mines using explosive materials under a Red List, indicating that they fall under stricter regulatory scrutiny and are subject to immediate closure or further action. On the other hand, mines extracting soft rock without the use of explosive materials will be placed on a Green List. These mines are considered comparatively safer from a security perspective and may continue operations in accordance with existing regulations, provided they comply with all relevant legal requirements. The department has instructed district administrations to submit both the Green List and the Red List as soon as possible. The reports are expected to provide a clear picture of mining activities across the province and help authorities monitor compliance with the latest directives. In addition to regulating mining operations, the Home Department has ordered strict monitoring of the purchase, sale, transportation, storage, and use of explosive materials. Authorities have also been instructed to closely monitor the movement and use of urea fertilizer, which can potentially be misused in the manufacture of improvised explosive devices if diverted from legitimate agricultural purposes. As part of these measures, all districts have been asked to compile and submit complete district-wise lists of licensed urea dealers. The purpose of collecting this information is to strengthen oversight of the distribution chain and prevent the illegal sale or diversion of urea for unlawful activities. The Home Department has further instructed all relevant officials to submit the required reports and lists without delay. Once these reports are received, the provincial government will review the findings and determine any additional actions that may be necessary. Relevant authorities are expected to take further administrative, regulatory, or legal measures based on the information collected from across the province. The latest directives reflect the KP government’s commitment to enhancing public safety, improving regulatory oversight of mining activities, and preventing the misuse of explosive materials. By introducing a district-wise classification system and increasing surveillance over explosives and urea distribution, the provincial administration aims to strengthen law enforcement efforts and reduce potential security risks associated with unauthorized use of hazardous substances. The implementation of these measures is expected to improve coordination among government departments and ensure greater accountability in the mining and chemical supply sectors across Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.

  The Islamabad High Court (IHC) has extended its earlier interim order preventing the collection of an additional 50 percent toll tax from vehicles that do not have an M-Tag installed. The relief will remain in effect until the next hearing of the case, providing temporary protection to motorists while the legal proceedings continue. During the hearing, the National Highway Authority (NHA) submitted its written response before the court, outlining its position regarding the policy of imposing an additional toll charge on vehicles that are not registered under the M-Tag system. The response is expected to form the basis of further arguments in the case. The petitioner’s counsel requested additional time to carefully review the written reply submitted by the NHA before presenting a detailed response. Accepting the request, the court adjourned the proceedings to a later date, allowing both parties sufficient time to prepare their arguments. While postponing the hearing, the Islamabad High Court announced that its previous order would continue to remain in force until the next hearing. As a result, authorities have been restrained from collecting the additional 50 percent toll tax from vehicles that either do not have an M-Tag installed or have insufficient balance in their M-Tag accounts. The interim relief means that motorists falling into these categories cannot be charged the extra amount until the court issues further directions. However, the regular toll charges applicable under existing rules may still be collected. The dispute centers on the National Highway Authority’s policy requiring motorists to register their vehicles with the M-Tag electronic toll collection system. Under the authority’s regulations, vehicles that are not registered with M-Tag are subject to a 50 percent higher toll fee when using motorways and designated highways. Similarly, vehicles with an M-Tag account that does not have sufficient balance may also be charged the additional amount under the same policy. The NHA introduced the M-Tag system to modernize toll collection, reduce congestion at toll plazas, promote cashless payments, and improve the efficiency of traffic management on Pakistan’s motorway network. The electronic system enables vehicles to pass through toll plazas more quickly, minimizing delays and reducing manual cash transactions. Despite these objectives, the policy of imposing an additional 50 percent toll charge has faced criticism from some motorists and legal experts. Opponents argue that the surcharge is excessive and places an unnecessary financial burden on drivers, particularly those who have not yet registered for the M-Tag system or encounter technical issues with their accounts. They also contend that such a financial penalty should have a clear legal basis and should not be enforced without proper safeguards. The NHA’s decision has therefore been challenged before the Islamabad High Court, where the petitioner seeks to have the additional toll charge declared unlawful. The court will examine the legal validity of the policy after considering the arguments of both parties, including the authority’s written response and the petitioner’s objections. Until the next hearing, the High Court’s interim order will continue to provide temporary relief to affected motorists by preventing the collection of the disputed 50 percent additional toll tax. The outcome of the case is expected to determine whether the National Highway Authority can lawfully enforce the surcharge in the future or whether changes to the policy will be required.

  The United States Department of Defense (Pentagon) has entered into a framework agreement with leading American defense contractors Lockheed Martinand Northrop Grumman to expand the production capacity of critical components used in missile defense systems. The agreement is part of the U.S. government’s broader effort to strengthen its defense industrial base and ensure that the military maintains sufficient stocks of advanced missile interception systems amid rising global security challenges. According to Arab media reports, the Pentagon has not disclosed the financial value of the framework agreement. While details regarding the total cost and production timeline remain confidential, officials have indicated that the initiative is intended to significantly increase manufacturing capabilities for components used in missile interceptor systems. The agreement comes at a time when the United States is reassessing its defense production capacity in response to ongoing international conflicts and growing demand for advanced military equipment. Reports suggest that the prolonged wars involving Iran-related regional tensions and the conflict in Ukraine have placed considerable pressure on U.S. weapons and missile inventories. As a result, the Pentagon has been working to replenish depleted stockpiles while ensuring that American forces remain prepared for future security challenges. Missile defense systems play a crucial role in protecting military installations, strategic assets, and civilian populations from incoming missile threats. These systems rely on highly sophisticated interceptor missiles and advanced technologies capable of detecting, tracking, and destroying hostile missiles before they reach their intended targets. Increasing production of the key components used in these systems is expected to improve the United States’ ability to respond quickly to evolving security threats and maintain a reliable supply of defensive capabilities. Defense analysts have noted that expanding manufacturing capacity is becoming increasingly important as global geopolitical tensions continue to rise. The ongoing war in Ukraine has resulted in significant military assistance from the United States and its allies, including the transfer of advanced missile defense equipment and interceptor missiles. At the same time, heightened tensions in the Middle East have increased the demand for missile defense systems capable of countering a wide range of aerial threats. The latest framework agreement follows another major defense contract announced just last week. The U.S. Army awarded Lockheed Martin a contract worth up to $58.6 billion for the production of Patriot interceptor missiles, one of the world’s most widely used air and missile defense systems. The Patriot system is designed to intercept ballistic missiles, cruise missiles, and hostile aircraft, making it a critical component of the United States’ missile defense network as well as that of several allied nations. The new agreement with Lockheed Martin and Northrop Grumman is expected to complement that large Patriot missile contract by ensuring that manufacturers have the capacity to produce the essential components needed for future missile defense programs. By investing in increased production capabilities, the Pentagon aims to strengthen supply chains, reduce manufacturing bottlenecks, and accelerate the delivery of critical defense equipment. Although the Pentagon has not revealed the financial details of the framework agreement, the move underscores Washington’s continued commitment to enhancing national security and maintaining military readiness. As global conflicts and regional tensions persist, expanding defense production is expected to remain a top priority for the U.S. Department of Defense in the years ahead.

  The Pakistan Medical and Dental Council (PMDC) has announced a series of special measures to ensure that students from Azad Jammu and Kashmir (AJK), who have been affected by prolonged internet disruptions, are able to participate in the Medical and Dental College Admission Test (MDCAT) without facing unnecessary obstacles. As part of these initiatives, the PMDC has established a dedicated examination center in Islamabad and has also reached a preliminary agreement to set up a regional PMDC office in Azad Kashmir. The decisions were made during a meeting between AJK Secretary of Health Brigadier Aamir Raza and Joint Admission Committee Chairman Professor Dr. Faisal Bashir with PMDC President Professor Dr. Rizwan Taj, Registrar Brigadier (Retd.) Rehan Naqvi, and Director of Admission Affairs Dr. Imdad Ali Khushk. The meeting focused on the registration challenges faced by AJK students due to the prolonged internet shutdown and explored practical solutions to ensure that no eligible candidate is deprived of the opportunity to take the MDCAT. During the meeting, the Secretary of Health of the AJK government informed PMDC officials that the ongoing internet suspension in the region had created serious difficulties for students attempting to complete their online registration for the entrance examination. He requested the council to extend every possible facility to affected students so that deserving candidates would not miss the examination because of circumstances beyond their control. Speaking on the occasion, PMDC President Professor Dr. Rizwan Taj stated that the council had already introduced several special measures to facilitate students from Azad Kashmir. He emphasized that the Government of Pakistan remains committed to ensuring equal opportunities for every eligible student seeking admission to medical and dental colleges, regardless of the challenges they face. Dr. Rizwan Taj explained that, considering the extraordinary circumstances in the region, the deadline for MDCAT registration with the regular fee had been extended twice. Initially, the deadline was extended until July 13, and later it was further extended until July 23, 2026, to provide additional time for students affected by the communication disruptions to complete their registration process. The PMDC President further said that students from Azad Kashmir had been given multiple options for submitting their registration applications. In addition to the online process, applications could be sent through WhatsApp, email, postal mail, or submitted in person. He also assured students experiencing registration difficulties that they could contact the PMDC directly, where officials would provide all possible assistance to help them complete the process successfully. To further support students, the PMDC has established a special MDCAT examination center in Islamabad specifically for candidates from Azad Kashmir. A public notice has already been issued regarding the facility, and a dedicated focal person has been appointed to guide students throughout the registration and examination process. The council hopes these measures will reduce confusion and ensure smooth coordination for affected candidates. During the meeting, PMDC President Professor Dr. Rizwan Taj and Registrar Brigadier (Retd.) Rehan Naqvi assured the Government of Azad Jammu and Kashmir of their full cooperation in addressing students’ concerns. Both sides also reached a preliminary agreement to establish a PMDC regional office in Azad Kashmir to improve access to council services for students and healthcare professionals in the region. The proposal will now be presented to the PMDC Governing Body for formal approval. At the conclusion of the meeting, the AJK Secretary of Health and the Chairman of the Joint Admission Committee appreciated the PMDC’s timely response and the special facilities provided for students affected by the internet shutdown. They expressed confidence that these initiatives would ensure that no eligible student from Azad Jammu and Kashmir would be deprived of the opportunity to appear in the MDCAT because of technical or communication-related difficulties.

  The Karachi Traffic Police have announced a comprehensive traffic management plan for the city’s central Chehlum procession, informing residents that M.A. Jinnah Road will remain closed to traffic throughout the event. The special arrangements have been introduced to ensure the smooth movement of the religious procession while minimizing inconvenience for commuters. Citizens have been advised to plan their travel accordingly and use the designated alternative routes to avoid delays. According to the traffic police, all traffic traveling from Saddar toward Tower will be diverted through Preedy Street and I.I. Chundrigar Road. In addition, several key intersections and commercial areas, including Lighthouse, Empress Market, Regal Chowk, and Tibet Centre, will have temporary traffic diversions in place. These measures are intended to keep vehicles away from the procession route and maintain public safety during the event. Motorists approaching from Shahrah-e-Quaideen will be redirected toward Kashmir Road and Peoples Chowrangi. Vehicles arriving from Korangi, Landhi, and the National Highway will be diverted through Rashid Minhas Road before proceeding to the Super Highway. Traffic officials have urged drivers from these areas to follow diversion signs and cooperate with law enforcement personnel deployed along the routes. Commuters traveling from Nazimabad will be able to reach their destinations through Lasbela, Garden, and Nishtar Road. Similarly, traffic coming from Liaquatabad will be diverted at Lasbela Chowk toward Nazimabad No. 10. These alternate routes have been identified to reduce congestion and facilitate the movement of vehicles while the main procession route remains inaccessible. The traffic plan also outlines arrangements for vehicles coming from Hassan Square. Such traffic will be directed through Shahrah-e-Quaideen, Society Light Signal, and Teen Hatti before reaching Lasbela Chowk. Meanwhile, motorists traveling from Shahrah-e-Faisal will be guided through Society Light Signal and Sher Shah Suri Road to continue their journeys. Drivers using Jamshed Road and intending to travel toward Gurumandir have been advised to use Bahadur Yar Jang Road or Soldier Bazaar Road as alternative routes. The Karachi Traffic Police have imposed strict restrictions on heavy vehicles for the duration of the procession. Heavy traffic will not be allowed to enter the city from 10:00 a.m. until the conclusion of the Chehlum procession. The restriction is aimed at preventing congestion and ensuring the safety of participants and the general public. Transport operators have been instructed to adjust their schedules accordingly and avoid entering restricted areas during the specified hours. Authorities have also announced a complete ban on parking along the procession route. Any vehicle found parked in prohibited areas will be immediately towed away without prior notice. Traffic police have warned motorists to comply with parking regulations and follow the instructions of officers on duty to avoid penalties and unnecessary inconvenience. The central Chehlum procession is scheduled to begin at 9:00 a.m. on Tuesday, August 4, from Nishtar Park. A large number of mourners are expected to participate in the religious gathering, prompting extensive security and traffic arrangements across the city. Police and traffic officials will remain deployed throughout the procession to manage vehicle movement, assist commuters, and maintain public order. Residents are encouraged to stay updated through official traffic advisories before leaving their homes and to use alternative routes wherever possible. The Karachi Traffic Police have appealed to the public for patience and cooperation, emphasizing that the temporary restrictions are necessary to ensure the safe and peaceful conduct of the central Chehlum procession while minimizing disruption to daily life.

  The Pakistan Goods Transport Alliance has announced a nationwide strike beginning on August 8, warning that transport operations across the country may be significantly disrupted if the government fails to address its key demands. The announcement was made by the alliance’s president, Malik Shehzad Awan, who criticized recent government policies affecting the transport sector and called for immediate corrective measures. Speaking to the media, Malik Shehzad Awan said that transporters are facing increasing financial pressure due to the frequent fluctuations in petroleum prices. He argued that the current system of revising fuel prices on a daily basis has created uncertainty for transport businesses, making it difficult for operators to estimate transportation costs, negotiate freight rates, and manage their daily operations effectively. The alliance has demanded that the government abandon the practice of daily fuel price adjustments and instead adopt a monthly pricing mechanism for petroleum products. According to Awan, fixing fuel prices on a monthly basis would provide greater stability to the transport industry, allowing businesses to plan expenses more efficiently and reducing the uncertainty caused by continuous price changes. He maintained that predictable fuel costs are essential for sustaining commercial transport services and protecting transport operators from unexpected financial losses. In addition to seeking changes in the fuel pricing policy, the alliance has also demanded the resignation of Federal Minister for Petroleum Ali Pervaiz Malik. Malik Shehzad Awan expressed dissatisfaction with the government’s handling of issues related to the petroleum sector, arguing that the concerns of transporters have not been adequately addressed. He claimed that recent policies have increased operational costs and placed an unnecessary burden on transport businesses across Pakistan. Another major demand put forward by the Pakistan Goods Transport Alliance concerns the withholding tax imposed on transport-related transactions. The alliance has urged the government to reduce the withholding tax rate from 7 percent to 2 percent, arguing that the current tax structure is excessive and has significantly increased the financial burden on transport operators. According to the alliance, lowering the tax rate would provide much-needed relief to the industry and improve the financial sustainability of transport businesses, particularly small and medium-sized operators. The transport sector plays a critical role in Pakistan’s economy, serving as the backbone of the country’s supply chain by moving goods between manufacturers, wholesalers, retailers, and consumers. A nationwide strike by transporters could disrupt the movement of essential commodities, industrial raw materials, agricultural products, and imported goods, potentially affecting businesses and consumers alike if the dispute remains unresolved. The alliance has called on the federal government to engage in meaningful dialogue with transport representatives before the scheduled strike date. Its leadership has urged policymakers to reconsider the current fuel pricing mechanism and taxation policies in order to prevent disruption to trade and commercial activities. The transporters maintain that their demands are aimed at ensuring the long-term sustainability of the sector rather than creating difficulties for the public. If negotiations do not produce a satisfactory outcome, the Pakistan Goods Transport Alliance has indicated that transporters across the country will proceed with the nationwide strike on August 8. The proposed shutdown is expected to affect freight services on major highways and commercial routes, potentially disrupting the supply of goods and increasing pressure on businesses dependent on road transport. The alliance has expressed hope that the government will address its concerns before the strike begins, allowing transport operations to continue without interruption.