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City View Apartment vs Flat vs Studio Pakistan
CategoriesCitadel One3 Construction Developments Investment Real Estate Towers

City View Apartment vs Flat vs Studio Pakistan: Best Choice (2026)

If you’ve spent any time browsing listings in Islamabad, Lahore, or Karachi, you’ve probably noticed that every other project claims a “stunning city view” or a “panoramic skyline.” But when it comes down to signing the paperwork, most buyers freeze at one question: should I go for a city-view apartment, a regular flat, or a compact studio? This City View Apartment vs Flat vs Studio Pakistan comparison isn’t just about square footage; it’s about lifestyle, budget, resale value, and how you plan to use the property. In this guide, we’ll break down what each option actually means, what it costs, and how to decide which one fits your goals.

Apartment vs Flat in Pakistan

Apartment vs Flat

Before we even get to the City View Apartment vs Flat vs Studio Pakistan debate, let’s settle something that trips up a lot of first-time buyers: is an apartment different from a flat? In short, no. “Flat” is the British-English term, more common in older listings and conversational use.

“Apartment” is the American-English equivalent, and it’s increasingly used by developers to market newer, more premium projects. Both refer to the same thing: a self-contained residential unit within a larger building, sharing structure and common areas with other owners.

What actually varies isn’t the word; it’s the building. A “flat” in a well-managed, secure block with a great view can easily outperform an “apartment” in a poorly maintained tower.

So when you’re evaluating apartment types Pakistan has to offer, don’t let the label do your thinking for you. Focus on the block quality, developer reputation, floor level, layout, and increasingly the view.

What Is a Studio Apartment?

Studio Apartment

A studio is the smallest and most affordable unit in the City View Apartment vs Flat vs Studio Pakistan comparison. It’s essentially one open room that combines your bedroom, living room, and kitchen into a single space, with only the bathroom enclosed separately.

Studios are popular among:

  • Students studying away from home
  • Young professionals starting their first job in a new city
  • Bachelors who don’t need extra rooms
  • Overseas Pakistanis looking for an easy-entry investment property

In Islamabad, Lahore and Karachi, prices vary based on sector and proximity to commercial hubs. The appeal here is low maintenance, lower utility bills, and quicker resale in dense urban pockets, but the tradeoff is limited privacy and no separate sleeping area, which doesn’t suit couples or small families.

What Is a Flat (Regular Apartment)?

Flat (Regular Apartment)

A flat or standard apartment usually comes with at least one separate, enclosed bedroom, a distinct living area, a kitchen, and one or more bathrooms. Depending on the number of bedrooms, flats in Pakistan are generally categorised as:

  • 1-bedroom flats
  • 2-bedroom flats
  • 3-bedroom flats
  • 4-bedroom flats

This is where most of the apartment types Pakistan buyers search for actually fall; the “regular” flat category makes up the bulk of listings in Karachi, Lahore, and Islamabad. Flats offer a balance: more space and privacy than a studio, without jumping into penthouse-level pricing. If you’re raising a family or need a dedicated home office, a flat is usually the more practical choice over a studio.

What Is a City View Apartment?

City View Apartment

This is where things get interesting and where most generic “types of apartments” articles fall short. A city view apartment isn’t a separate structural category like a studio or duplex; it’s a positioning within a building.

It refers to a unit studio, 1-bed, 2-bed, or penthouse that’s placed on a higher floor or oriented to face a landmark, skyline, park, or mountain range, rather than facing an internal courtyard, parking lot, or a neighbouring building’s wall.

In the ongoing City View Apartment vs Flat vs Studio Pakistan conversation, this is often the deciding factor for investors and end-users alike. Developers routinely charge a premium, often 10% to 25% more for units with a confirmed, unobstructed view. Why? Because view units:

  • Command higher resale value over time
  • Attract better rental yields, especially from expats and corporate tenants
  • Rarely lose their view (unlike lower floors, which can get blocked by future construction)
  • Offer better natural light and ventilation

If you’re comparing a plain flat against a city view apartment at similar square footage, the view unit is almost always the stronger long-term investment provided the building itself is well-managed, and the developer has a solid track record.

City View Apartment vs Flat vs Studio Pakistan 

Feature Studio Regular Flat City View Apartment
Typical Size 250–800 sq ft 500–1,600 sq ft Varies (studio to 3-bed)
Privacy Low Moderate to High Depends on unit type
Price Premium Lowest Mid-range 10–25% higher than same-size non-view unit
Rental Yield Good in student/business areas Steady, family-driven demand Highest, especially for expats/corporate tenants
Resale Value Moderate Reliable Strongest long-term appreciation
Best For Singles, students, quick investment entry Couples, families Investors, end-users wanting lifestyle + ROI
Maintenance Minimal Moderate Moderate to high (premium buildings)

When you lay it out this way, the City View Apartment vs Flat vs Studio Pakistan decision becomes less about “which type is objectively best” and more about matching the unit to your specific goal, whether that’s affordability, family space, or long-term capital growth.

Which One Should You Buy? A Decision Framework

Here’s a practical way to think through the City View Apartment vs Flat vs Studio Pakistan decision based on who you are:

If you’re a student or single professional on a budget, a studio makes the most sense. Lower purchase price, lower utility bills, and easier maintenance mean you can get into the property market without overextending yourself financially.

If you’re a couple or small family, a 1- or 2-bedroom flat gives you the separation and space you need without the premium pricing of a view unit. This is the sweet spot for most middle-income buyers exploring apartment types Pakistan offers today.

If you’re an investor or overseas Pakistani, a city view apartment, even in a smaller configuration like a 1-bed or studio, tends to deliver the best combination of rental demand and capital appreciation.

Buyers who are not living in the unit year-round often prioritise view and building reputation over raw square footage, since these units rent out faster and hold value better.

If you want to future-proof your investment, choosing a city view unit protects you from the risk of your view getting blocked by future construction nearby, which is a real concern in fast-developing sectors of Islamabad and Lahore.

Best Flat to Buy in Islamabad

Best Flat to Buy in Islamabad

If Islamabad is on your radar, here’s what actually matters before you finalise a purchase, beyond just picking between a studio, flat, or city view unit:

  1. NOC status: Only buy in NOC-approved societies or developments to avoid legal complications down the line.
  2. Developer track record: Look at the builder’s delivery history on previous projects, not just their marketing brochures.
  3. Payment plan flexibility: Instalment-based plans are common in Islamabad; compare down payment percentages and possession timelines across projects.
  4. Amenities and security: Gated access, 24/7 surveillance, parking capacity, and firefighting systems matter more than they seem at first glance.
  5. View and floor premium: Decide whether paying extra for a confirmed skyline or landmark view is worth it for your rental or resale goals.

A Real Example: Citadel One3 in IslamabadCitadel one3

To put the “city view” concept into context, it’s worth looking at a live example. Citadel One3, developed by Chakor, is a 40+ story residential and commercial tower coming up on Jinnah Avenue in Blue Area, Islamabad. What makes it a relevant case study in this City View Apartment vs Flat vs Studio Pakistan discussion is exactly the positioning we’ve been talking about the project is built around: panoramic views of the Faisal Mosque and F-9 Park, two of Islamabad’s most recognisable landmarks.

Beyond the view itself, the project spans roughly 27,500 sq ft of total area and includes amenities aimed squarely at long-term value and lifestyle appeal: a culinary court, dedicated sports and kids’ play areas, a gym, smart parking for over 350 cars, rental stay management for investors, advanced firefighting systems, secure entry and exit points, and 24/7 surveillance. Its location in the heart of Blue Area also plays into the “centralised city living” pitch that’s become common among premium Islamabad developments.

Projects like Citadel One3 illustrate why the city view angle matters so much in today’s market; it’s not just a marketing term, it’s increasingly a structural part of how developers price and position units, and it’s a major factor buyers should weigh alongside apartment size and layout.

Final Thoughts

At the end of the day, the City View Apartment vs Flat vs Studio Pakistan decision comes down to matching the unit to your life stage and financial goals rather than chasing the “best” option in the abstract. A studio works if you’re optimising for affordability and low maintenance. A flat makes sense if you need space and privacy for a family. And a city view apartment is worth the premium if you’re playing the long game on rental income and resale value.

Whichever direction you lean, don’t get distracted by whether a listing says “flat” or “apartment”; that’s just terminology. What actually determines whether you’ve made a smart purchase is the building quality, the developer’s reputation, the floor and orientation of the unit, and whether the price reflects genuine long-term value. Take the time to compare a few projects side by side, ask about view guarantees in writing, and always verify NOC and documentation before you commit; that discipline will serve you far better than any single label ever could.

For more information on Islamabad City view apartments and real estate investment options, please visit Chakor.

CategoriesNews Construction Developments Economy Property Property Laws Real Estate Investment

Cabinet Approves National Housing Policy 2026, Endorses New Cybersecurity Framework

ISLAMABAD: The federal cabinet, chaired by Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, has approved the National Housing Policy 2026 together with a corresponding implementation plan. Under the policy, housing projects will be required to fully observe zoning regulations, with priority given to vertical construction to improve land-use efficiency. 

Officials noted the policy was drafted with input from local and international experts, along with federal, provincial, and development-sector stakeholders, aiming to ensure sustainable and quality housing nationwide. Energy-efficiency standards have also been folded into the policy framework to align new construction with environmental goals.

The cabinet was additionally briefed on the Apna Ghar housing scheme, revealing that banks have sanctioned loans worth Rs220 billion for prospective homeowners, of which more than Rs32 billion has already been disbursed.

In a separate move, the cabinet approved withdrawing Pakistan’s earlier notice to terminate its 1981 bilateral investment treaty with Sweden, based on a summary presented by the Board of Investment.

On the technology front, the Ministry of Information Technology introduced the draft Pakistan Information Security Framework 2026 (PISF 2026), developed under the CERT Rules 2023. The framework is designed to establish unified baseline cybersecurity standards with centralized oversight. The cabinet approved it as a key policy document and directed its timely implementation.

Further ratifications included proposed amendments to the Pakistan Oil Refining Policy 2023, aimed at upgrading refineries to strengthen energy supply, along with decisions made during recent Economic Coordination Committee and Cabinet Committee on Legislative Cases meetings.

For more real estate news and special reports, visit Chakor.

Source: DAWN

CategoriesNews Economy Property Real Estate Real Estate Investment

Rs. 16.44 Billion Raised as Islamabad Auction Enters Final Day

ISLAMABAD: The Capital Development Authority (CDA) collected Rs. 16.44 billion during the opening two days of its ongoing commercial plot auction at Islamabad’s Jinnah Convention Centre, with a third and final round of bidding still ahead. The first day alone brought in Rs. 13.81 billion, while the second added a further Rs. 2.63 billion to the tally.

Tuesday’s proceedings featured strong demand for agricultural land along Murree Road, where Agro Farm No. 18 sold for Rs. 1.212 billion and Agro Farm No. 17-A brought in Rs. 966 million.

Commercial shop units in the Blue Area Parking Plaza also performed well, with three individual units fetching between roughly Rs. 147 million and Rs. 154 million apiece.

Not every offering found a buyer, however. Two commercial plots in Sector C-13, a site that has remained mired in controversy for nearly two decades, failed to attract meaningful bids despite CDA officials anticipating combined proceeds exceeding Rs. 10 billion.

The sector was originally acquired under the 2007 Land Sharing Policy, but many of the original landowners say they are still waiting to be compensated or resettled.

Affected residents have raised objections to CDA continuing to market land from the sector while their claims remain unresolved. According to landowner accounts, the CDA Board approved a plan in 2023 to compensate eligible families with residential plots in the adjacent Sector C-14, and revenue authorities subsequently completed ownership verification.

Despite this, no allotments have reportedly been issued. The dispute has also drawn intervention from the Islamabad High Court, which ordered CDA to settle outstanding compensation, though claimants say that order has yet to be enforced.

The auction is scheduled to conclude on Thursday, with the authority expressing hope that the final day will generate additional revenue from the sale of remaining commercial properties across the capital.

For more real estate news and special reports, visit Chakor.

Source:

CategoriesNews Economy Investment Real Estate Investment

US Business Delegation Wraps Up Karachi Visit, Reviews SIFC-Backed Investment Projects

KARACHI: A high-level United States business delegation wrapped up a two-day visit to Karachi on Sunday, engaging with Sindh’s provincial leadership to assess investment prospects across multiple sectors under the facilitation of the Special Investment Facilitation Council (SIFC).

On the visit’s second day, delegates held meetings with provincial ministers to review opportunities tied to major development initiatives, including the Bin Qasim Industrial Park and Karachi Industrial Park, alongside other proposed schemes designed to expand industrial and commercial output in the province.

The delegation also received briefings on the Sindh Business One-Stop Shop, Keti Bandar Port, the NED Tech Park, and the proposed Sindh International Financial Centre, with provincial officials detailing each project’s scope and investment potential.

A separate session with the Pakistan Business Council broadened the discussion to capital markets, agriculture, textiles, energy, minerals, and healthcare, among other economic segments.

American delegates conveyed confidence in Pakistan’s strengthening investment climate, citing expanding opportunities across industries. Business representatives further stressed that sustained investor confidence hinges on policy continuity and streamlined regulatory procedures, while crediting SIFC’s coordinating role in advancing ongoing investment efforts.

The visit adds to a string of recent engagements aimed at deepening US-Pakistan commercial ties, with Sindh positioning its industrial parks, port infrastructure, and financial-sector projects as key entry points for foreign capital amid the province’s broader push to court international investors.

For more real estate news and special reports, visit Chakor.

Sources:

Pakistan’s Property Market Gains Momentum
CategoriesNews Economy Property Property Laws Property Taxes Real Estate Real Estate Investment

Pakistan’s Property Market Gains Momentum Amid Tax Cuts and Global Shifts

ISLAMABAD: Pakistan’s real estate sector is witnessing a notable resurgence, with market activity accelerating across major urban centres including Karachi, Lahore, and Islamabad. Industry analysts attribute the renewed interest to a combination of domestic tax relief measures and shifting global economic conditions, prompting both local and overseas investors to reconsider property as a preferred asset class.

At the centre of this shift is a reduction in property transaction taxes, which has lowered the overall cost of buying and selling real estate. This adjustment has made the market more accessible to genuine homebuyers as well as investors seeking stable returns. 

Adding to the momentum, the federal government has proposed abolishing Section 7E, a tax provision long criticised by property stakeholders as an unnecessary financial burden on owners. Should this proposal advance, experts anticipate it could further stimulate transaction volumes in the months ahead.

External factors are also playing a role. Rising uncertainty in the Middle East has reportedly prompted a segment of overseas Pakistanis to reassess their international investment holdings, with many turning attention toward established, well-developed housing projects back home as a comparatively secure option.

The combined effect of these dynamics has been reflected in pricing trends, with residential property values in several key cities climbing by an estimated 10 to 15 percent in recent weeks. Analysts note, however, that this growth is uneven, shaped largely by limited inventory in high-demand locations rather than a uniform market-wide surge.

Looking ahead, real estate professionals are calling for continued reform, particularly simplified taxation procedures and modernised land record systems to sustain investor confidence. 

At the same time, experts continue to urge caution, advising buyers to independently verify ownership documentation, project approvals, and development status before committing funds, rather than basing decisions solely on recent price appreciation.

For more real estate news and special reports, visit Chakor.

Sources:

CategoriesNews Property Real Estate Real Estate Investment Urban Developments & Planning

Apna Ghar Scheme Delivers Rs204bn in Approved Housing Finance

ISLAMABAD: Banks have approved housing finance worth Rs204 billion under the Prime Minister’s Apna Ghar Scheme, with Rs27 billion already disbursed to beneficiaries, a high-level review meeting was informed on Tuesday.

Chairing the meeting, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif said the scheme was designed to enable low- and middle-income households to own homes, describing affordable housing as one of the government’s foremost priorities.

Officials briefed the meeting that the Ministry of Housing and Works, together with the State Bank of Pakistan, is conducting weekly reviews to track progress and address bottlenecks in implementation.

The prime minister directed authorities to accelerate work on the scheme and called on public and private sector banks to expand financing support, aiming to widen access to housing loans for eligible families.

He further instructed relevant departments to devise a comprehensive strategy for both vertical and horizontal housing developments under the initiative, emphasising the need for practical and sustainable solutions to meet the demands of a growing population.

Reaffirming the government’s commitment to providing shelter for disadvantaged and middle-income citizens, the prime minister stressed that close coordination among all stakeholders remains essential for the scheme’s timely and successful execution.

The meeting was attended by Federal Minister for Finance and Revenue Muhammad Aurangzeb, Federal Minister for Housing and Works Riaz Pirzada, Minister of State for Finance and Railways Bilal Kayani, and senior government officials.

The Apna Ghar Scheme aims to finance 150,000 homes by June 2027, as part of the government’s broader affordable housing agenda.

For more real estate news and special reports, visit Chakor.

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Shah Alam Market
CategoriesEconomy Developments Investment

Shah Alam Market: Location, Timings & What to Buy 2026

Shah Alam Market is one of the oldest and busiest commercial centers in Lahore, Pakistan. Known locally as Shahalmi or Shah Almi Market, it sits at the heart of the Walled City and draws traders, retailers, and everyday shoppers from across the country. With more than 25 bazaars packed into a sprawling network of lanes, Shah Alam Market Lahore remains one of the few places where centuries of history and modern-day wholesale trade coexist.

This guide covers everything worth knowing about the market: its origins, the exact location of the Shah Alam market, what you can buy there, when to visit, and how to get there without getting lost in its narrow streets.

The History Behind Shah Alam Market

Shah Alam Market

The market takes its name from the Shah Alami Gate, one of the twelve historic gates of Lahore’s Walled City. The gate itself was named after Mughal emperor Shah Alam I, son of Aurangzeb, though before his rule it was known as the Bherwala Gate.

The gate was destroyed during the riots that accompanied the 1947 partition, and only its name lives on today through the market and neighborhood built around its former site.

Before partition, the Shah Alami area was largely home to Hindu-owned businesses and a predominantly Hindu population. Following the mass migration of 1947, the area was resettled, and the market gradually grew into the trading center it is today.

Over the decades, it expanded into a dense cluster of specialized bazaars, each known for a different category of goods, including the well-known Pappar Mandi, Rang Mahal, Bottle Bazaar, and Sarafa Bazaar.

Shah Alam Market Location: Where Exactly Is It?

Understanding the Shah Alam market location is the first step to planning a visit, since the area is dense and not always easy to navigate by car. The market sits inside Lahore’s Walled City, right next to Mayo Chowk, which is itself located beside the Mayo Hospital gate. From Mayo Chowk, a one-way road leads directly into the market’s entrance.

The broader Shah Alam market Lahore location places it close to other historic landmarks, including Minar-e-Pakistan, Lahore Fort and Badshahi Mosque, all within a short distance. This makes the market a natural stop for anyone already exploring the old city’s heritage sites, not just a destination for wholesale shopping.

Shah Alam Market Lahore Location: Getting There

Because of the narrow streets and heavy footfall, reaching the market works best with a bit of planning:

  • By road: Coming from Gulberg, Model Town, or DHA, take Ferozepur Road onto the Lahore Ring Road and exit near Azadi Chowk. From there, follow signs toward Circular Road, then turn toward Shahalmi Gate. Parking directly at the market is limited, so many visitors park a short distance away and walk in.
  • By public transport: The Metro Bus stops at Azadi Station or Timber Market Station are both a short rickshaw ride from the market. Local buses and wagons also stop frequently along Circular Road.
  • On foot: Given how compact the Walled City is, walking is often the fastest way to move between the market’s different bazaars once you’ve arrived.

What You Can Buy at Shah Alam Market

Shah Alam Market

Shah Alam Market built its reputation on wholesale pricing, and that variety is still its biggest draw. Shoppers and retailers head here for:

  • Clothing and fabrics: From ready-made shalwar kameez to fabric by the meter, the market’s textile shops cater to both individual buyers and shopkeepers stocking up for resale.
  • Baby garments: A dedicated section of the market specializes in newborn and toddler clothing, sold in bulk to retailers from across Punjab.
  • Toys: Several lanes are lined with toy shops selling everything from basic plastic toys to battery-operated cars, popular with both bulk buyers and families.
  • Perfumes and attars: Local and imported fragrances are sold here at prices well below retail, making the perfume section a favorite for small business owners.
  • Crockery and kitchenware: Basic utensils, dinner sets, and steel home items are available at wholesale rates.
  • Electric goods: Wiring accessories, switches, and lighting fixtures are sold here at prices that attract electricians and small contractors.
  • Watches: Long-established watch shops sell wristwatches, wall clocks, and offer repair services.
  • Jewellery and handicrafts: The Sarafa Bazaar section is known for gold and silver jewellery, while nearby shops sell handmade décor and traditional crafts.
  • Food: Street food stalls and traditional eateries operate throughout the market, especially in the early morning hours before the shops fully open.

Shah Alam Market Timings

Shah Alam Market

Most shops in the market follow standard trading hours from late morning through the afternoon, though food stalls open much earlier. Since individual shop hours can vary, it’s worth checking with a specific vendor before heading out, especially if you’re planning to visit a particular shop for baby garments, toys, or perfumes.

Unlike many other markets in Lahore that close on Sundays, Shah Alam Market stays open seven days a week, including Sundays, which tend to be the busiest day given that it’s a public holiday for most other businesses.

Why Shah Alam Market Still Matters

Shah Alam Market

Shah Alam Market isn’t just a shopping destination; it’s a working piece of Lahore’s economic and cultural fabric. Thousands of shopkeepers, wholesalers, and support staff rely on the market for their livelihoods, and its wholesale pricing structure makes it a key source of supply for retailers across Punjab.

At the same time, its location within the Walled City, close to Lahore Fort and Badshahi Mosque, keeps it connected to the city’s historic identity rather than being just another commercial zone.

FAQs – Shah Alam Market

Shah Alam Market

Where is Shah Alam Market located?

The market is located inside Lahore’s Walled City, next to Mayo Chowk, close to Mayo Hospital and within walking distance of Lahore Fort and Badshahi Mosque.

What is Shah Alam Market famous for?

It is known as one of the largest wholesale markets in Pakistan, with more than 25 specialized bazaars covering clothing, toys, perfumes, crockery, electric goods, and jewellery.

Is Shah Alam Market open on Sundays?

Yes. Unlike most markets in Lahore, it remains open on Sundays, which is often its busiest day.

What is the best time to visit Shah Alam Market?

Late afternoon tends to be less crowded than midday, making it easier to browse shops without the heaviest foot traffic.

Is Shah Alam Market only for wholesale buyers?

No. While it’s a major wholesale hub, individual retail shoppers are welcome and often find prices lower than typical retail markets elsewhere in the city.

This was all about Shah Alam market Lahore; for more information on relevant topics such as famous markets in Lahore, visit Chakor blogs.

CategoriesNews Economy Real Estate Investment

AI to Replace Manual Tax Notices as Pakistan Eyes $750M Eurobond After Panda Bond Success

ISLAMABAD: Pakistan’s tax administration is set to shift toward an artificial intelligence-led engagement model, with human intervention between the tax authority and taxpayers reduced to a minimum, Finance Minister Muhammad Aurangzeb said while addressing a banking summit in Karachi.

The minister noted that Parliament has approved a new tax administration structure under which taxpayer notices will now be issued through AI-led systems, marking a shift from the traditional, human-dependent compliance process.

On external financing, Aurangzeb expressed optimism over Pakistan’s entry into international bond markets, citing the recent Panda Bond issuance as a notable milestone despite the country’s late arrival in China’s capital markets. The bond, launched in mid-May, raised the equivalent of $250 million in yuan and attracted demand exceeding five times its target.

The government is now preparing additional Eurobonds and sukuk, with upcoming instruments structured as dollar-settled, rupee-linked bonds, a first for Pakistan. Requests for proposals have been sent to international investors to gauge pricing and demand.

Following Pakistan’s re-entry into the international bond market after a four-year gap, strong Eurobond demand has created room to raise issuance size to $750 million, the minister said.

On capital markets, Aurangzeb said activity drivers mattered more than headline index figures, citing a growing investor base, including Gen Z participants, and a return to double-digit corporate profitability.

On fiscal policy, he said this year’s budget was formulated for the first time by the Tax Policy Office, now under the Finance Division, with focus on export-led growth through removal of the advance and super taxes.

Pakistan Banks’ Association Chairman Zafar Masood added that the banking sector paid over Rs1 trillion in annual taxes, with agriculture lending up 39 percent, housing lending up 90 percent, and SME lending growth exceeding 111 percent year-on-year.

For more news on real estate and special reports, visit Chakor.

Source:

CategoriesNews Citadel 7 Economy Investment

Sindh, IFC Explore Partnership in Digital Infrastructure and Renewable Energy

KARACHI: The Sindh government and the International Finance Corporation (IFC) have agreed to explore collaboration across multiple development sectors, including digital infrastructure, renewable energy, agriculture, healthcare, and social protection.

The agreement followed a meeting between Sindh Chief Minister Syed Murad Ali Shah and IFC Division Director for Pakistan Simon Andrews, held at the CM House.

During the meeting, CM Murad outlined Sindh’s plans to attract investment in strategic sectors. These include establishing an international data centre within the province and expanding private-sector renewable energy generation.

Discussions also covered strengthening agriculture value chains, improving storage and processing facilities, and enhancing farmer livelihoods through mechanisation.

The IFC expressed interest in supporting healthcare, nutrition, and skills development initiatives, including Sindh’s ongoing programme to reduce child stunting.

Nursing sector reforms also featured prominently in the discussion. The Sindh government aims to produce at least 15,000 nurses annually. Both sides agreed to collaborate on developing a comprehensive nursing education and training model to meet this target.

A separate segment of the meeting focused on climate-resilient infrastructure. The IFC’s Sustainable Infrastructure Advisory Team offered technical assistance for climate risk assessment in public-private partnership (PPP) projects. 

In response, Sindh’s PPP Unit requested support in three areas: capacity building, development of climate resilience guidelines, and integration of climate risk tools into project planning processes.

Provincial Minister Jam Khan Shoro, Chief Secretary Asif Hyder Shah, and Finance Secretary Fayaz Jatoi were among the officials present at the meeting.

Both parties are expected to continue discussions to formalise areas of cooperation in the coming months.

For more news on real estate and special reports, visit Chakor.

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CategoriesNews Budget Economy Property Taxes Real Estate Investment

Govt Tax Relief Aims to Revive Real Estate, Push Vertical Growth

ISLAMABAD: The government has introduced fresh tax relief for the real estate sector to restore investor confidence and boost stalled investment, according to Federal Parliamentary Secretary for Planning and Development Hafiz Mian Muhammad Nauman.

Speaking at a seminar organised by the Lahore Chamber of Commerce and Industry (LCCI), Nauman said the construction and real estate sectors support around 70 allied industries and play a major role in job creation. He stressed the need to shift from unchecked horizontal expansion of cities to vertical urban development.

LCCI President Faheemur Rehman Saigol welcomed the relief measures, which include a cut in withholding tax on property purchases from 2.5% to 1.25%, and on sales from 5.5% to 2.75%, along with the abolition of Section 7E. He said these steps would help rebuild investor trust, though he urged the government to extend reduced FBR property valuation rates to other housing societies for equal treatment across the sector.

Nauman said he had raised real estate reform with Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif nearly a year ago, pushing for a comprehensive construction package. He noted that unchecked urban sprawl has shrunk green spaces around major cities, with Lahore now spreading into Sheikhupura and Kasur. Nearly 150,000 to 200,000 residential plots remain vacant within Lahore alone, he said, making a strong case for vertical development.

He called the removal of Section 7E a major relief for property owners, noting that taxing non-income-generating assets had discouraged investment.

On affordable housing, Nauman said high financing costs keep home ownership out of reach for most citizens. He urged banks to offer long-term mortgage financing spanning 15 to 20 years, similar to models used in developed countries.

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