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Stay informed with the latest developments in real estate, business, and investment trends across Pakistan and beyond. Chakor News delivers timely updates, expert insights, and market analysis to help you make informed decisions. Whether it’s project launches, economic shifts, or updates on regulatory changes, our news coverage keeps you ahead of the curve. Explore reliable stories, impactful headlines, and trusted reporting—only on Chakor News.

CategoriesNews Economy

SBP Pushes Banks to Deepen Agri-Finance

KARACHI: The Governor of the State Bank of Pakistan (SBP), Jameel Ahmad, has called on banks to expand the agricultural borrower base, strengthen inclusion of small farmers, and accelerate digital delivery channels to support sustainable growth in the farming sector.

Speaking at a meeting of the Agricultural Credit Advisory Committee (ACAC) in Karachi on Thursday, the governor emphasised that agriculture remains vital for improving farm productivity, supporting rural livelihoods, and ensuring food security. He stressed the need to enhance agricultural financial intermediation to promote value addition, market linkages, and long-term sectoral growth.

During FY2024-25, agricultural credit disbursement reached a record Rs2,577 billion, reflecting a 16% annual increase. Building on this momentum, disbursements in the first half (July-December) of FY2026 amounted to Rs1,412 billion, while the number of borrowers rose to 2.97 million.

Highlighting macroeconomic improvements, Ahmad noted that Pakistan’s real GDP grew by 3.7% in the first quarter of FY2026, with full-year growth projected between 3.75% and 4.75%. Headline inflation moderated to 5.8% by January 2026, allowing monetary policy to support growth while maintaining price stability.

The governor urged banks to leverage initiatives such as the Risk Coverage Scheme for Small Farmers and Underserved Areas and Zarkheze, the SBP’s flagship digital agricultural lending platform. Zarkheze enables digital onboarding, standardised credit assessment, land record integration, and end-to-end loan traceability.

The committee also reviewed progress on upgrading crop loan insurance under the ADB-supported Pakistan Insurance Transformation Programme and discussed scaling up Electronic Warehouse Receipt Financing to enhance post-harvest liquidity.

Ahmad outlined three priorities for banks: expanding borrower outreach, deepening inclusion of small farmers, and extending agricultural finance to underserved regions.

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CategoriesNews Real Estate

Sindh Launches Landmark Digital Property Registration for Overseas Pakistanis

KARACHI: The Government of Sindh has introduced a digital property registration system to facilitate overseas Pakistanis in executing property transactions without traveling to Pakistan.

Senior Minister for Information, Transport and Mass Transit, Sharjeel Inam Memon, described the initiative as a “historic and revolutionary step” designed to ease long-standing procedural challenges faced by expatriate Pakistanis. The reform enables overseas citizens to complete sale deeds and related property documentation through Pakistani embassies and consulates abroad.

The initiative follows amendments to the Sindh Registration Act, which exempt overseas Pakistanis from the requirement to appear in person at local sub-registrar offices. The new system integrates with the National Database and Registration Authority (NADRA) to enable biometric and facial verification, enhancing security, transparency, and fraud prevention.

Additionally, e-stamping services have been transitioned to the Sindh Information Technology Company to streamline digitization. The system incorporates paperless stamp duty, two-factor authentication, and mobile application access to facilitate secure, efficient transactions.

Officials say the move is expected to strengthen investor confidence among overseas Pakistanis and encourage greater participation in Pakistan’s real estate sector. The government views the reform as part of broader efforts to modernize land administration, improve governance, and simplify bureaucratic procedures.

The digital registration framework represents a significant development in Sindh’s administrative reforms and could set a precedent for similar initiatives in other provinces.

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CategoriesNews Tourism Urban Developments & Planning

CDA Unveils Plan to Transform Islamabad into a Vibrant Cultural and Tourism Hub

ISLAMABAD: The Capital Development Authority (CDA) has launched a new initiative to enhance Islamabad’s status as a cultural and tourism capital. Announced on February 10, the plan aims to boost the city’s cultural appeal and attract both local and international tourists.

The CDA’s strategy includes the development of spaces dedicated to art, heritage, and cultural events, designed to foster a vibrant cultural scene. The initiative will involve the creation of cultural centers, public art spaces, and tourism-focused facilities, all of which will contribute to the city’s identity as a prominent cultural hub.

Additionally, the CDA plans to allocate land for the construction of museums, galleries, and cultural landmarks, which will showcase Pakistan’s rich history and diverse cultural heritage. These new facilities are expected to enhance the city’s tourism infrastructure, drawing more visitors to Islamabad.

The CDA is committed to preserving the city’s natural beauty as a “garden city,” ensuring that the new cultural developments align with the city’s environmental and architectural character. This approach aims to balance urban growth with sustainable design, offering a blend of modern amenities and green spaces.

This initiative is part of the CDA’s broader goal to boost the city’s visibility on the global tourism map, stimulate economic growth through cultural tourism, and create a more engaging environment for both residents and visitors. The CDA’s efforts are expected to elevate Islamabad’s reputation as a key cultural and tourism destination in the region.

CategoriesNews Construction Transport Urban Developments & Planning

Traffic Diversion Plan Announced for Park Road Underpass Construction

ISLAMABAD: Authorities have announced a comprehensive traffic management plan in connection with the construction of a new underpass at Margalla Enclave on Park Road in Islamabad. The diversion strategy aims to regulate vehicular movement and minimize congestion during the development phase.

According to the advisory, vehicles traveling from Rawal Dam Chowk toward Taramari will be redirected via NIH Road and will rejoin Park Road through Mohra Noor. Meanwhile, traffic moving from Taramari toward Rawal Dam Chowk will be diverted near Chai Khana, passing through the CDA Nursery area and two temporary access roads before merging back onto Park Road.

Motorists have been advised to consider alternative routes, including Lehtrar Road, Khanna Pul, and the Islamabad Expressway, to avoid delays near the construction site. Officials have cautioned that the area is likely to experience increased traffic pressure, particularly during peak hours, and commuters are encouraged to allow an additional 20 to 30 minutes for travel.

Islamabad Police personnel will remain deployed along affected stretches to assist drivers and ensure the orderly movement of vehicles. The traffic management measures will remain in place for the duration of the construction work.

The underpass project forms part of ongoing infrastructure development efforts aimed at improving traffic flow along Park Road, a key corridor connecting residential and commercial areas of the capital. Authorities have urged the public to cooperate with traffic officials and adhere to the designated diversion routes to maintain smooth traffic operations during the construction period.

CategoriesNews Economy Investment Trade

Pakistan, Canada Review Trade and Investment Cooperation

ISLAMABAD: Pakistan and Canada have reviewed the status of bilateral trade and investment cooperation during a telephonic conversation between Commerce Minister Jam Kamal Khan and Canada’s Minister of International Trade Maninder Sidhu. The discussion focused on strengthening economic engagement and expanding collaboration across multiple sectors.

Both sides acknowledged ongoing trade ties and discussed measures to enhance market access and facilitate smoother commercial exchanges. Canadian authorities appreciated Pakistan’s support in enabling the resumption of canola shipments, describing it as a positive development for agricultural trade between the two countries.

The dialogue also explored opportunities to diversify trade beyond traditional areas. Pakistan highlighted its export capabilities in textiles and apparel, leather goods, agro-based products, surgical instruments, sports goods, paper, plastics, and footwear. The country’s growing capacity in value-added food processing and higher-value manufacturing segments was also outlined.

Investment prospects were discussed, particularly in the minerals and mining sector, which Pakistan identified as a priority area for industrial development. Canadian firms were encouraged to explore potential ventures in this field as part of broader economic cooperation.

Officials from both countries agreed to continue engagement at technical and policy levels to identify priority areas and address trade-related matters. The interaction reflects ongoing efforts by Islamabad and Ottawa to expand bilateral economic relations and explore new avenues for collaboration in trade and investment.

The meeting was also attended by senior officials, including representatives from diplomatic and trade missions, as part of continued dialogue between the two governments on economic cooperation.

CategoriesNews Entertainment Investment Tourism

Basant Generates Significant Short-Term Economic Activity in Lahore

LAHORE: City’s long-awaited Basant revival has triggered a remarkable surge in commercial activity, with kite and string sales surpassing Rs1.5 billion within the first five days of trading.

According to the Kite Flying Association, daily trade volumes climbed steadily from Rs160 million on the first day to Rs180 million on the second and Rs200 million on the third, before jumping sharply to Rs680 million on the fourth day alone. By the fifth day, cumulative sales had crossed Rs1.5 billion, reflecting strong consumer demand ahead of the festival’s official start on February 6.

On the fourth trading day, more than one million kites were sold in Lahore, alongside over 20,000 spools of string (pinna). Despite rising prices, demand remained resilient. A one-and-a-half tawa kite was priced at Rs700, a one tawa kite at Rs400, and a pauna tawa kite at Rs300. Two-piece string spools ranged between Rs12,000 and Rs15,000, depending on quality and length.

Traditional commercial hubs such as Mochi Gate, Islampura, Samanabad, Delhi Gate, Shah Alam Market, and Anarkali reported heavy footfall, while Liberty Chowk emerged as a prominent focal point of public celebrations. Markets remained active late into the night as buyers stocked up on kites, spools, and decorations.

The festival’s revival has extended beyond rooftops into public spaces, marked by fireworks displays, decorative installations, and large gatherings across the city. Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz visited Liberty Chowk and Mochi Gate, affirming that safety rods for motorcycles would be mandatory during Basant, though motorcycles themselves would not be banned.

After nearly 25 years, Basant’s return has not only revived a cultural tradition but also generated substantial economic momentum across Lahore’s retail and informal sectors.

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Pakistan–Uzbekistan Economic Ties
CategoriesNews Developments Economy Investment Trade

$3.4bn Agreements Boost Pakistan-Uzbekistan Economic Ties, $2bn Trade Target

ISLAMABAD: Pakistan and Uzbekistan signed Business-to-Business (B2B) agreements worth $3.4 billion at the Pakistan–Uzbekistan Business Forum in Islamabad, marking a major step forward in bilateral economic cooperation.

The forum was attended by Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and visiting Uzbek President Shavkat Mirziyoyev, who is on a two-day state visit to Pakistan. Addressing business leaders and ministers from both sides, Prime Minister Sharif invited Uzbek firms to explore investment opportunities in Pakistan’s textile, pharmaceutical, mining, agriculture and tourism sectors.

The private-sector agreements span multiple industries, including textiles, pharmaceuticals, leather, engineering goods, and agriculture. Both leaders assured investors of a conducive business environment and pledged zero tolerance for corruption and bureaucratic hurdles. Prime Minister Sharif described himself as the “CEO of Pakistan” for the forum and assured business leaders that any bottlenecks would be removed promptly.

The two countries also signed a protocol to raise bilateral trade to $2 billion within five years. Both sides termed the target “ambitious yet achievable,” emphasizing that structured programs and policy frameworks are already in place to facilitate growth. Uzbekistan offered 10-year tax exemptions and support to Pakistani pharmaceutical companies and invited Pakistani expertise to manage approximately 30 high-tech textile enterprises.

Connectivity remained a central focus during the visit. Both countries reaffirmed their commitment to the Uzbekistan–Afghanistan–Pakistan (UAP) Railway Project and endorsed the Termiz–Kharlachi route, recognizing its importance for regional integration and trade expansion.

In addition, the Anti-Corruption Agency of Uzbekistan and Pakistan’s National Accountability Bureau signed an MoU to strengthen cooperation against corruption. Later, President Asif Ali Zardari conferred the Nishan-e-Pakistan upon President Mirziyoyev in recognition of his efforts to strengthen bilateral ties.

The visit underscored a shared commitment to deepening strategic partnership and expanding economic collaboration between the two countries.

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CategoriesNews Economy Investment

SBP Completes Redesign of Banknotes with Enhanced Security Features

ISLAMABAD: The State Bank of Pakistan (SBP) has completed the development of new banknote designs incorporating updated security elements and has submitted them to the federal cabinet for formal approval. The progress was shared during a meeting of the Senate Standing Committee on Finance and Revenue.

According to SBP Governor Jameel Ahmad, the proposed designs have already been cleared by the central bank’s board. He informed lawmakers that the printing process will commence once the cabinet grants its approval. The introduction of the new notes into circulation will take place gradually, beginning after sufficient stock has been produced to replace existing notes.

The redesign initiative is intended to strengthen safeguards against counterfeiting and modernise Pakistan’s currency framework. Officials indicated that more than one denomination may be printed at the same time; however, no details were provided regarding which notes will be released first.

At present, currency denominations in circulation include Rs10, Rs20, Rs50, Rs75, Rs100, Rs500, Rs1,000 and Rs5,000. The committee session, chaired by Senator Saleem Mandviwala, also addressed matters related to financial oversight and regulatory administration.

In a separate development, the SBP’s Monetary Policy Committee decided to maintain the benchmark interest rate at 10.5 percent in its first meeting of 2026. The rollout of the redesigned currency will proceed once the necessary approvals are completed and production benchmarks are achieved.

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CategoriesConstruction News Urban Developments & Planning

ECNEC Clears Rs240 Billion Package for Health, Transport, Energy and Skills Projects

ISLAMABAD: The Executive Committee of the National Economic Council (ECNEC) has given the green light to four public sector development projects with a total estimated cost exceeding Rs240 billion. The approvals were granted during a meeting chaired by Deputy Prime Minister Ishaq Dar, according to an official release.

One of the key initiatives involves expanding cardiac care facilities at a major medical institute in Rawalpindi, aimed at strengthening specialised healthcare services and increasing treatment capacity.

The committee also approved a nationwide youth-focused skills programme intended to enhance vocational and technical training opportunities. The initiative is designed to equip young people with market-relevant skills to improve employability.

In the transport sector, ECNEC endorsed the development of a new bus rapid transit corridor in Karachi. The project is expected to support urban mobility by providing an organised public transport system along a key route in the city.

Additionally, a hydropower project with a planned generation capacity of 34.5 megawatts in Gilgit-Baltistan received approval. The scheme is expected to contribute to regional electricity supply and support local infrastructure development.

The meeting was attended by federal and provincial officials, including representatives from finance, planning, water resources, defence, and technical training institutions. The approved projects span multiple sectors, reflecting ongoing efforts to address infrastructure, energy, healthcare, and workforce development needs through public investment.

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CategoriesNews Construction Developments Economy Investment Urban Developments & Planning

Balochistan Government Establishing Business Facilitation Centre in Gwadar

GWADAR: The Balochistan government is in the process of setting up a Business Facilitation Centre (BFC) in Gwadar to provide administrative and regulatory services to the business community. The facility is expected to become operational in the near future.

The centre will operate as a one-window platform, bringing together representatives from various government departments to process applications and approvals required for business activities. Services to be offered include the issuance of no-objection certificates (NOCs), licenses, permits, and other regulatory clearances needed to initiate or expand commercial operations.

A digital coordination system is being introduced to connect relevant departments and support the processing of applications. Business Facilitation Officers will be stationed at the centre to assist applicants and manage documentation and procedural requirements.

The initiative is part of ongoing administrative measures aimed at improving service delivery for investors and businesses operating in Gwadar. The centre is intended to centralise procedures that are currently handled by multiple offices.

The decision to establish the facility was discussed during meetings between representatives of the business community and provincial authorities responsible for investment and trade. The Business Facilitation Centre will function as a dedicated point of contact for investors seeking regulatory approvals related to business operations in Gwadar.

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