ISLAMABAD, April 15: Pakistan’s trade deficit with the Middle East widened to $9.349 billion during the first eight months (July–February) of FY2025, according to new data. This marks a 9.75% increase over the same period last year, largely fueled by a surge in petroleum imports. Modest Export Growth Overshadowed by Soaring Imports While exports to the Gulf region saw a slight uptick of 3.56%, rising to $2.095 billion, the gains were overshadowed by a sharp increase in imports. The imports totalled $11.444 billion, up 8.56% year-on-year. This imbalance continues to weigh heavily on Pakistan’s trade dynamics, despite recent efforts to…
Author: Nayab
Lahore, April 15: As the HBL Pakistan Super League (HBLPSL) celebrates its 10th season, Habib Bank Limited is turning up the excitement with a major innovation in fan engagement. The bank has launched HBL FanTunes, a first-of-its-kind platform in Pakistan. It would allow fans to compose their own personalized anthems using AI-powered music generation tools. This creative initiative marks a historic moment. HBL is now the first bank in Pakistan to use generative artificial intelligence in a public-facing campaign that bridges music, technology, and sport. Read more: PSL Sparks Online Frenzy After Giving Hair Dryer as Player Award AI Meets…
Lahore, April 14: The Government of Pakistan is preparing to increase its defense budget by Rs159 billion in the next fiscal year, taking the total allocation to Rs2,281 billion for 2025–26. This represents a 7.49% increase compared to the current fiscal year’s allocation of Rs 2,122 billion. The planned hike, while notable, is more restrained than last year’s 14.16% surge, indicating a shift toward more calculated budgeting under growing economic pressure. Security Still a Top Priority Despite persistent financial strain and limited fiscal space, national defense remains a top priority for Islamabad. The proposed increase underscores the government’s resolve to…
Lahore, April 14: In a high-level meeting at the headquarters of Sui Northern Gas Pipelines Limited (SNGPL), Minister of State for Petroleum Ali Parvez Malik issued strong directives aimed at overhauling the gas distribution network to better serve the public and meet growing energy demands. During the visit, SNGPL Managing Director Amer Tufail welcomed the minister and provided an in-depth briefing on the company’s operations, outlining key issues in infrastructure, supply chain, and service delivery. Innovation Must Lead the Way, Says Minister Minister Malik emphasized the urgent need for innovation across the gas supply chain. With Pakistan’s energy sector facing…
Lahore, April 14: A private criminal investigation is said to be initiated into billionaire property tycoon Asif Aziz, following a series of complaints from residents of Fountain House, a luxury apartment complex situated on Park Lane in London’s prestigious Mayfair district. The inquiry is being led by Tarique Ghaffur CBE, a former senior officer of Scotland Yard. What’s the conflict? Fountain House, comprising approximately 80 high-end apartments near the Dorchester Hotel, is managed by Aziz’s property management firm, Parkgate Aspen. Residents, many of whom are high-net-worth individuals, have raised concerns over excessive service charges and alleged substandard management practices. Some…
Lahore, April 2025: At the Google Cloud Next 2025 conference, Oppo made headlines with the announcement of its cutting-edge Agentic AI Initiative. This new endeavor aims to transform how users interact with their devices, offering smarter, more personalized experiences that evolve with each user. Unveiled by Jason Liao, President of the Oppo Research Institute, the initiative is not just another AI buzzword. It represents a clear vision of how technology can adapt to individual behavior and preferences in real time. A Partnership That Powers the Future The initiative is fueled by Oppo’s proprietary AI technologies, strengthened by a strategic partnership…
Lahore, April 14: Hyundai is charging ahead in the Pakistani auto market, and this time, it’s with a bold new statement: the fourth-generation Hyundai Tucson Hybrid. Following the successful debut of the Elantra Hybrid last year, Hyundai Nishat Motors is doubling down on sustainability and innovation. Now, with the Tucson Hybrid on the streets, the hybrid SUV segment in Pakistan just got a serious upgrade. Going Green Without Compromise Hybrids are no longer about compromise — and the Tucson Hybrid is proof. Designed to offer the best of both worlds, it combines the smooth performance of a turbocharged petrol engine…
ISLAMABAD, April 14: The Capital Development Authority (CDA) is turning up the pace on sector development across Islamabad. In a high-level meeting chaired by CDA Chairman Muhammad Ali Randhawa at CDA headquarters, progress on multiple residential sectors was reviewed, and clear directives were issued to accelerate completion timelines. This development-focused session wasn’t just about updates. It marked a renewed commitment to delivering infrastructure, housing, and civic amenities across several long-awaited CDA sectors. Park Enclave Progresses with Fresh Momentum Significant milestones were highlighted in Park Enclave Phases I, II, and III. Road infrastructure in Park Enclave I has been completed, and…
Lahore, April 14: The Oil and Gas Regulatory Authority (OGRA) has released the revised Re-gasified Liquefied Natural Gas (RLNG) prices for April 2025, effective from April 1. These adjustments reflect changes in global LNG prices and operational efficiencies within domestic gas companies. SNGPL Consumers Face Price Increases For Sui Northern Gas Pipelines Limited (SNGPL) consumers, the transmission price has risen to $12.5895 per MMBtu from the previous $12.0022, marking a 4.89% increase. Similarly, the distribution price has been adjusted to $13.4789 per MMBtu, up from $12.9499, indicating a 4.08% hike. These increases are attributed to higher Delivered Ex-Ship (DES) prices…
Karachi, April 14: In an electrifying development, the opening ceremony of Pakistan Super League’s tenth season witnessed BYD Pakistan, under Mega Motor Company, step in as the official mobility partner. This alliance between the world’s leading New Energy Vehicle (NEV) manufacturer and Pakistan’s premier cricket league set the stage for a series of innovative activations throughout the tournament. Merging Entertainment with Innovation The ceremony captivated audiences as the tournament trophy made its entrance atop the BYD Shark 6, symbolizing the fusion of sports and cutting-edge technology. Later, renowned artist Ali Zafar added to the spectacle by taking a celebratory lap…
