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Pakistan: The Next Critical Minerals Destination

Pakistan is positioning itself as a critical minerals destination, with major projects such as Reko Diq, growing international partnerships and the upcoming Pakistan Minerals Investment Forum 2026 aimed at attracting investment, expanding mineral exports and developing the country’s mining sector.

Tesla Roadster Unveiled With SpaceX Thrusters, Production Set for 2028

Tesla unveils its redesigned Tesla Roadster with rocket-style SpaceX thrusters, a top speed exceeding 230 mph and a range of more than 300 miles. Production is scheduled to begin in 2028.

Why Nutritious Food Remains Unaffordable

Healthy eating in Pakistan remains a challenge for many families despite domestic food production. High costs, limited dietary variety and food supply chain gaps affect access to nutritious meals.

England Arrive in Pakistan for ODI Tri-Series

England arrive in Pakistan for the ODI tri-series against Pakistan and Sri Lanka. The tournament runs from October 18 to 31, with the final scheduled at Lahore’s Gaddafi Stadium.

Pakistan seeks USD 6.7 billion Saudi oil financing facility

Pakistan has sought USD 6.7 billion in concessional oil financing from Saudi Arabia over 15 years to reduce immediate foreign exchange requirements and manage the cost of energy imports.

FBR extends income tax return filing deadline to October 31

The FBR has extended the income tax return filing deadline to October 31 following requests from trade organisations. More than 6.815 million returns have been filed, compared with over 5.2 million during the corresponding period last year.

Actor Imran Khan Asked to Leave India by October 28 After Mumbai Protest

Imran Khan actor faces an October 28 deadline to leave India after the FRRO issued a notice following his participation in a Mumbai protest on October 10.

Finance Minister Aurangzeb pitches Pakistan’s economic recovery to global investors

Finance Minister Muhammad Aurangzeb highlights Pakistan’s economic stabilisation, stronger reserves, fiscal reforms and plans to attract investment at a JP Morgan seminar in Bangkok.

inDrive, Tech Valley Launch Digital Safar for Drivers’ Children in Pakistan

Digital Safar will provide 300 children of inDrive drivers in Pakistan with free, Urdu-language classes in online safety and AI literacy from October 19 to November 9, 2026.

Istanbul Floods Kill 2 as 43 Flights Diverted After Torrential Rain

Istanbul floods killed two people and disrupted air and public transport after torrential rain on October 14. Authorities diverted 43 flights, closed schools in six provinces and deployed more than 8,000 personnel for emergency response.

Peshawar school roof collapse kills 21 children, one teacher

At least 17 children and a female teacher were killed after a private school roof collapsed in Peshawar's Dir Colony. More than 30 injured people were taken to hospital as rescue teams searched for survivors.

Maaz Sadaqat jumps 187 places as Sahibzada Farhan ranks third in ICC T20I rankings

Maaz Sadaqat climbs 187 places to 45th in the ICC T20I batting rankings as Sahibzada Farhan holds third spot. Salman Mirza rises to 14th among bowlers.

The Audacity of Hope

Pakistan and Russia to finalise treaty for exchange of criminals

The two countries also plan to sign an agreement against organised crime and expand cooperation on cybercrime, drug trafficking and illegal migration.

SHINE Humanity Partners with Art of Giving to Support Rural Healthcare in Pakistan

SHINE Humanity and Art of Giving are making rural healthcare in Pakistan easier to support through an interactive donation kiosk at two Karachi malls. Donors can contribute, sign up for monthly giving or volunteer.

Pakistan’s listed textile companies post 11% profit growth in FY26

Pakistan’s top 20 listed textile companies increased combined profits by 11.4% to PKR 51.96 billion in FY26, supported by lower finance costs and a reduced effective tax rate, while sales remained broadly flat at PKR 1.40 trillion.

SBP launches new policy to narrow gender gap in financial inclusion

The SBP’s Banking on Equality Policy 2026 aims to reduce Pakistan’s gender gap in financial inclusion to 25% by 2028 through improved access to banking, digital finance and business loans for women.

Pakistan receives first October LNG cargo as winter gas shortage fears persist

Al-Areesh resumes supplies at Engro terminal, but a second terminal remains shut and further imports from Qatar are uncertain.

Pakistan nears regulatory framework for satellite internet rollout

Pakistan is nearing completion of a regulatory framework for satellite-based internet services as the government works to attract investment and expand connectivity across underserved areas.

Banking Mohtasib awards PKR 1.2 billion to complainants in nine months

Banking Mohtasib Pakistan awarded PKR 1.2 billion to complainants and resolved 29,001 cases from January to September 2026, while warning customers about banking fraud.

Breaking Bad’ Actor RJ Mitte Dies at 34

RJ Mitte, best known for playing Walter White Jr. in Breaking Bad, has died at 34.

Sahibzada Farhan leads from the front as Pakistan seal series win

Sahibzada Farhan has made a strong start as Pakistan’s T20I captain, scoring 162 runs across the first two matches as Pakistan secured a 2-0 series lead over Sri Lanka.

Rehman Baba Express derailment near Multan kills at least five, injures 30

At least five people were reported killed and 30 injured after the Rehman Baba Express derailed near Multan early Tuesday. Rescue teams evacuated passengers as railway authorities ordered an inquiry into the accident.

UAE approves Dh 292.5 billion budget for 2027–2029

The UAE has approved Dh292.5 billion in federal spending for 2027–2029, with Dh90.1 billion earmarked for 2027 and social development and pensions receiving the largest share.

IMF raises Pakistan’s inflation forecast to 9.9%, keeps growth at 3.5%

The IMF has raised Pakistan’s inflation forecast to 9.9% for FY27 from 8.4%, while maintaining its growth projection at 3.5%, below the government’s 4% target.

APTMA urges government to tighten rules on duty-free textile imports

APTMA has urged the government to restrict yarn and fabric imports under the Export Facilitation Scheme, citing rising man-made textile imports, alleged misdeclaration and under-invoicing, and an uneven tax burden on domestic manufacturers.

DRAP makes 2D barcodes mandatory on new medicines from October 9

DRAP has made 2D barcodes and serial numbers mandatory for registered medicines manufactured locally or imported into Pakistan from October 9, 2026, to help combat counterfeit drugs and improve supply chain traceability. Older batches remain exempt.

Tamasha Secures PCB Streaming Rights for Pakistan’s 2026-27 Home Cricket Season

Tamasha has secured digital streaming rights for Pakistan’s home international cricket season from October 2026 to March 2027, covering 25 matches across three formats.

Pakistani Runners Take on Chicago Marathon 2026 in Support of Flood Victims

At least 30 Pakistani and Pakistan-origin runners participated in the 48th Chicago Marathon, with Guinness World Record holder Faisal Shafi leading an effort to support flood victims in Pakistan.

Punjabi romance takes centre stage at the music launch of Mango Jutt

Mango Jutt music sets the tone for the Punjabi film starring Hareem Farooq and Faysal Quraishi, as its star-studded launch builds anticipation for its October 16 release.

Pakistan attracts USD 3.2 billion in private investment for energy, green projects

Pakistan has mobilized USD 3.2 billion in private capital for energy and green projects through the World Bank, with investment expected to support cleaner power and sustainable infrastructure.

Tanker shortage and soaring freight costs threaten global oil supply

JPMorgan warns that a shortage of oil supertankers and soaring freight costs could disrupt global oil supplies and keep energy prices elevated

Pakistan textile exporters warn of sharp export decline in October-December

Pakistan’s textile exporters have warned of a sharp decline in October-December exports, seeking 6% to 8% tax relief, clearance of outstanding refunds and implementation of the announced 4.5% export financing rate.

Bangladesh Likely to Replace Pakistan in Asian Hockey Champions Trophy

Bangladesh could replace Pakistan in the Asian Hockey Champions Trophy, scheduled for October 27 to November 5 in India, after the PHF raised security concerns.

PIA to lease two Boeing 787-9 Dreamliners from Norse Atlantic

Pakistan International Airlines is set to operate two Boeing 787-9 Dreamliners leased from Norse Atlantic Airways from November 2026 as the Norwegian carrier expands its aircraft-leasing business.

South African lawyer Navi Pillay wins 2026 Nobel Peace Prize as Trump misses out again

South African jurist Navi Pillay has won the 2026 Nobel Peace Prize for her work on international justice and human rights, while Donald Trump missed out on the honour again.

SECP registers second-highest monthly tally of 5,241 companies in September

IT sector leads new registrations, with 99.9% of companies incorporated online as digital registration continues to expand

Pakistan restores weekly shipping link to Europe

Pakistan has restored MSC’s weekly PREMIUM IPAK shipping service from Karachi, reconnecting exporters with major European (EU) markets amid higher freight costs and international shipping disruptions.

Meta bans TikTok ads on its platforms in US and six other countries

Meta has banned TikTok owner ByteDance from advertising on Facebook and Instagram in the US and six other countries. The restriction also covers third-party campaigns promoting TikTok and other ByteDance services, amid intensifying competition for users, creators and advertising revenue.

Oil prices fall as Trump signals pause in Iran strikes

Oil prices declined on Friday after Donald Trump said the US would not attack Iran before November's midterm elections, easing immediate supply concerns. Brent crude fell to USD 102.91 a barrel, while WTI dropped to USD 90.40.

foodpanda and HBL Expand Partnership to Boost Digital Payments in Pakistan

Digital payments in Pakistan are gaining traction as foodpanda and HBL expand their partnership with youth-focused cards, sign-up rewards and pandapro loyalty benefits.

NEPRA raises electricity cost by PKR 1.11 per unit for October bills

NEPRA has approved a PKR 1.1086 per-unit fuel cost adjustment for August, with the additional charge to be recovered from eligible consumers through October electricity bills.

Wahaj Ali Is Winning Audiences Over as Baala

Wahaj Ali is drawing major attention as Baala opposite Mahira Khan in a rural Punjab saga that has quickly become a viewer favourite.

Global oil rises as Middle East supply concerns persist amid shipping attacks

Oil prices rose as escalating attacks on shipping in the Gulf and Strait of Hormuz heightened concerns over Middle East crude supplies, while falling US inventories and hurricane-related production cuts added further support.

Women Entrepreneurs in Pakistan Get New Trade and Finance Support

Women entrepreneurs in Pakistan are gaining access to trade, finance and enterprise support through a new Khadijah Program session in Karachi.

Nana Patekar Dies at 75 After Cardiac Arrest in Goa

Nana Patekar, one of Indian cinema’s acclaimed actors, has died at 75 after suffering a cardiac arrest at his residence in Goa.

PSL 12 to be played from March 18 to May 2

The Pakistan Cricket Board has confirmed that PSL 12 will run from March 18 to May 2, 2027, with all eight franchises returning for a second successive season.

Pakistan’s Used car imports jump 4,600% from May to September

Pakistan’s used-vehicle imports jumped 4,642% from May to September 2026, rising from 48 to 2,276 units as regulatory changes fuelled a sharp rebound.

IMF and Pakistan reach staff-level agreement, paving way for USD 1.21 billion

The IMF and Pakistan have reached a staff-level agreement that could unlock about USD 1.21 billion, taking total disbursements under the country’s current IMF programmes to around USD 5.7 billion.

Pakistan ranks among top five global AI services providers

Pakistan ranks among the top five global suppliers of services across more than 2,700 skill areas as the country expands its AI ecosystem and digital workforce, the World Bank says.

India raises interest rate for first time in nearly four years

India’s central bank has raised its benchmark interest rate by 25 basis points to 5.50%, its first hike in nearly four years, as inflation, oil prices and pressure on the rupee weigh on the outlook.

Digital channels handle 92% of Pakistan’s retail payments in FY26

Digital transactions surged 65% to 13.2 billion as mobile-based payments drove the shift away from traditional banking channels.

Messi bids farewell to Argentina after 21-year international career

Lionel Messi ends his 21-year Argentina career with a goal and two assists in a 3-0 win over Benin in an emotional farewell at Buenos Aires’ Monumental Stadium.

LNG shortage pushes Pakistan toward fuel oil as winter supply risks grow

Pakistan’s fuel oil consumption in the power sector surged sevenfold year-on-year in September as LNG supply disruptions pushed generators toward alternative fuels, raising concerns over gas and power shortages during winter.

Jazz launches 5G campaign focused on customer choice

Jazz has launched “Hamari Superpower,” a 5G campaign centered on customer choice as the company expands its network to more than 1,000 live 5G sites.

Pakistan Fashion Gets Global Spotlight as Zain Ahmad and Noor Khan Join BoF 500

Pakistan fashion gets a global spotlight as designer Zain Ahmad and model Noor Khan join The Business of Fashion’s BoF 500 for 2026.

Pakistan’s listed pharma sector profit rises 28% to PKR42.2b in FY26

Pakistan’s listed pharmaceutical sector saw profitability rise 28% to PKR42.2 billion in FY26, supported by higher prices and lower finance costs, while sales grew 10% to PKR377.9 billion.

IMF wants Pakistan to remove EV tax breaks and deregulate sugar

The IMF has asked Pakistan to liberalise the sugar market and reconsider tax concessions for electric vehicles as negotiations over the country’s economic programme continue.

Pakistan prequalifies nine parties for GEPCO privatisation

Pakistan’s Privatisation Commission has prequalified nine domestic and international parties to bid for a 51% to 100% stake in Gujranwala Electric Power Company, including management control.

Verity: A Dark, Twisted Thriller That Keeps You Guessing

Verity is a dark and twisted psychological thriller starring Dakota Johnson, Anne Hathaway and Josh Hartnett, blending mystery, disturbing secrets and psychological tension into an ending that leaves audiences questioning what was real and what was fiction.

Attock Cement proposes name change to Falcon Cement

Shareholders will vote on the proposed name change at an EGM scheduled for October 20

Gandhara Independent Film Festival 2026 asks who gets to watch Pakistan’s indie cinema

The Gandhara Independent Film Festival 2026 showcased Pakistani indie filmmakers tackling stories rarely given space in mainstream cinema, while raising questions about local access to independent films.

Sri Lanka name 16-member squad for Pakistan ODI tri-series

Kusal Mendis will lead Sri Lanka, while Pathum Nissanka’s participation remains subject to medical clearance

Pakistan seafood exports rise 74.4% to USD 125.4 million in first quarter

Fish exports reach 61,679 metric tons as government seeks greater access to Russian and European Union markets

Gulf states send record USD 161 billion in worker remittances in 2025

GCC countries recorded the world’s largest combined outward worker remittances last year, with flows rising 13.6% as demand for expatriate labour expanded across the region

Pakistan, Türkiye and Saudi Arabia to hold Makkah pact meeting in Riyadh

Ishaq Dar, Khawaja Asif and Chief of Army Staff Field Marshal Asim Munir will represent Pakistan as the three countries review regional security and cooperation under the defence agreement

India beat Pakistan by 19 runs to win Asian Games cricket gold

Hasan Nawaz’s fight ends at 96 as Pakistan fall short in 212-run chase to take silver medal

JazzWorld leadership highlights Pakistan’s AI opportunity at GSMA Nova Future Summit

The JazzWorld Pakistan AI opportunity was highlighted at the GSMA Nova Future Summit, with calls for investment in AI, digital infrastructure and data centers.

Jazz Business strengthens Rescue 1122 emergency response with mission-critical communication system

The Jazz Business Rescue 1122 communication solution supports emergency teams in remote and flood-affected areas through resilient communications and centralized command systems.

Cricket World Cup 2027 schedule announced, Pakistan and India drawn in same group

Pakistan and India will face each other in Johannesburg on Oct. 10, while Australia, Afghanistan, Zimbabwe and one qualifier also feature in Group A

Khaadi Pakistan Limited plans up to PKR 8.3 billion IPO

The Khaadi Pakistan Limited IPO is part of a plan to raise up to PKR 8.3 billion through a pre-IPO placement and public offering.

foodpanda rider appreciation events bring restaurant partners and delivery riders together

The foodpanda rider appreciation events hosted with Burger Lab and Greeno recognized delivery riders with certificates and sit-down meals.

DVAGO and TPL Maps enter strategic partnership for location-based healthcare services

The DVAGO and TPL Maps partnership will explore applications of digital mapping and location intelligence across healthcare and pharmacy services in Pakistan.

Pakistan Advertising Association elects new CEC for 2026–2028

The Pakistan Advertising Association has elected a new 14-member Central Executive Committee for 2026–2028, with Numan Nabi Ahmed as chairman.

National Savings raises profit rates across several schemes

Returns on Special Savings Certificates, Regular Income Certificates and Islamic savings products see increases of up to 74 basis points

Three movies releasing this weekend, from Pakistani action to Tom Cruise chaos

The movies releasing this weekend bring three very different cinema experiences, from Pakistani action thriller Sheroes to Tom Cruise’s Digger and the psychological thriller Verity.

Pakistan’s inflation slows to 10.3% in September despite continued price pressures

September reading remains well above last year’s level as monthly price pressures continue

5 Karachi Cafes to Put on Your Coffee Run List This World Coffee Day

World Coffee Day is the perfect excuse to explore Pakistan’s growing café culture. From specialty coffee spots to cozy neighborhood favorites, here are some cafés worth adding to your next coffee run.

FBR collects PKR 3.07 trillion in first quarter, beats target by PKR 13 billion

September collection rises 9% year-on-year to PKR 1.34 trillion, exceeding the monthly target by PKR 1 billion

Pakistan economy shows broader recovery in early FY27

Finance Ministry sees manufacturing, agriculture and external inflows strengthen, oil prices remain key risk

Pakistan set up Asian Games final clash with India

Pakistan have booked their place in the Asian Games men’s cricket final for the first time, beating Bangladesh by six wickets. They will face arch-rivals India for the gold medal on October 3.

Oil prices slip as Gulf exports recover and US inventories rise

Brent crude fell 1.1% to USD 96.92 a barrel, while WTI dropped 1.4% to USD 89.18 as supply concerns eased and diplomatic efforts between the US and Iran resumed.

FBR extends income tax return filing deadline to Oct 15

Tax Year 2026 deadline was extended from Sept. 30 following requests from trade bodies and other stakeholders

Pakistan’s Asian Games campaign gathers pace with five bronze medals

Women’s cricket, squash, MMA and PUBG Mobile have delivered medals so far, while Pakistan’s men’s cricket and hockey teams remain in the hunt for more silverware.

Pakistan ranks 136th globally in 2025 Corruption Perceptions Index

Pakistan ranked 136th out of 182 countries on Transparency International’s 2025 Corruption Perceptions Index, scoring 28 out of 100 as public-sector corruption remains a persistent concern.

Banks to stay open until 10pm today as Pakistan taxpayers rush to meet tax deadline

Customers visit a bank branch to submit tax payments in Karachi as commercial banks remain open until 10:00pm on September 30 to facilitate taxpayers ahead of the filing deadline.

Pakistan, IMF discuss faster energy reforms and external financing needs

Talks also cover circular debt, agricultural income tax, reserves and a planned review of automobile policy

Trump orders US government to replace ‘AI’ with ‘Super Intelligence’

White House accord with major tech companies calls for voluntary safety controls and external reviews of advanced AI systems

China to Launch First Foreign Astronaut as Pakistani Pilots Train for Tiangong Mission

China will carry its first foreign astronaut to the Tiangong space station this autumn, selecting between two Pakistani pilots currently training in Beijing. The one-week mission relies on Chinese spacecraft, facilities, and training, marking a major milestone in space cooperation between Islamabad and Beijing.

OpenAI shelves GPT-6.1 Astra release over safety concerns

OpenAI has shelved the planned release of GPT-6.1 Astra after internal testing found that the model did not meet its safety standards. The decision follows recent incidents involving AI agents accessing government and online systems without authorisation.

Government decides to import HSD ahead of harvesting season

PSO will import 55,000 metric tons in October as diesel demand is expected to rise during the Rabi harvesting season.

Pakistan set up India clash in Asian Games hockey semi-final

Pakistan defeated Oman 7-2 to reach the Asian Games hockey semi-finals, with Rana Waheed Ashraf scoring a hat-trick. The win sets up a semi-final against India on October 1.

SECP proposes raising small business and housing loan limit to PKR 5 million

Regulator also seeks higher income and turnover thresholds to expand access to finance for small businesses

Middle East oil exports rebound in September as Saudi Arabia boosts shipments

Saudi crude shipments more than doubled from August as regional oil flows recover, but exports remain below pre-conflict levels.

SpaceX’s Starship reaches orbit for the first time

The 14th test flight marked a major step for the giant reusable rocket, with Starship also deploying 26 next-generation Starlink satellites before ending the mission early

Gold prices fall sharply in Pakistan

The price of 24-karat gold fell PKR 12,800 per tola as rising oil prices and higher interest-rate expectations weighed on bullion

Pakistan begin Asian Games cricket campaign against Hong Kong

Pakistan advanced to the Asian Games semi-finals after persistent rain forced the quarter-final against Hong Kong in Nisshin to be abandoned without a ball being bowled.

Oil heads higher as US-Iran peace talks in stalemate

Trump rejects Iran peace proposal, keeping Strait of Hormuz risks elevated as Brent rises above USD 107 a barrel.

Malaysia agrees to increase imports of Pakistani rice

Additional purchase could help Pakistani exporters regain market share as Islamabad pushes to expand agricultural trade with Malaysia

Pakistan, IMF begin talks today on next USD 1.2 billion release

Pakistan has already received about USD 4.8 billion from its current IMF arrangements, with the latest review set to determine whether another USD 1.2 billion can be released.