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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.

China-Pakistan Economic Ties
CategoriesNews Economy Investment

China-Pakistan Economic Ties Deepen with Proposed $10B Aerospace Investment

ISLAMABAD: A Chinese aerospace investment group is considering a major investment between $5 billion and $10 billion in Pakistan, signaling growing international interest in the country’s industrial and technology sectors. The proposal was discussed during a meeting between the Federal Minister for Investment and the Chairman of the Board of Investment (BOI), Qaiser Ahmed Sheikh, and a delegation from China’s Aerospace Development Industry Investment Group Co.

The delegation was led by the company’s chairman, Lu Jinhai, who expressed the group’s interest in exploring large-scale investment opportunities across several key sectors of Pakistan’s economy. According to officials, the potential investment could cover areas such as mining and mineral development, advanced technology industries, and broader industrial expansion.

Government representatives highlighted Pakistan’s strategic advantages as an investment destination, emphasizing its geographic position connecting South Asia, Central Asia, and the Middle East. Officials also noted the country’s large domestic market of more than 240 million people and a young, growing workforce capable of supporting technology-driven industries.

During the meeting, both sides also discussed opportunities for collaboration in emerging sectors, including artificial intelligence, electric vehicles, drone technology, and renewable energy projects. Such investments, if finalized, could significantly contribute to Pakistan’s efforts to modernize its industrial base and strengthen its technological capabilities.

These programs would aim to train local workers and engineers in advanced technologies, helping build a more skilled workforce to support future industrial growth. The potential investment is also seen as aligning with broader regional economic initiatives, particularly those connected to China’s Belt and Road framework, which aims to expand infrastructure, trade, and connectivity across Asia and beyond.

Officials stated that discussions are still in early stages, but if realized, the proposed investment could mark one of the largest foreign commitments to Pakistan’s industrial and technology sectors in recent years, strengthening economic cooperation between the two countries.

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CategoriesNews Economy Trade Transport

Pakistan Moves to Safeguard Fuel Supplies Amid Global Oil Transport Crisis

ISLAMABAD: Pakistan is considering a series of emergency measures to manage petroleum supplies and pricing amid rising global uncertainty in oil transportation following disruptions linked to the Strait of Hormuz, one of the world’s most critical oil shipping routes.

According to officials, the government is evaluating the possibility of shifting from the current fortnightly petroleum price adjustments to a weekly review mechanism. The proposed change aims to enable quicker responses to rapidly fluctuating global oil prices and shipping costs. Authorities are also exploring options to compensate oil marketing companies for the sharp increases in shipping insurance and freight charges resulting from heightened geopolitical tensions in the region.

Government sources indicate that Pakistan currently holds more than 500,000 tonnes of petrol and diesel in stock, which is sufficient to meet national demand for approximately 25 to 26 days. Officials maintain that there is no immediate threat of a fuel shortage. However, precautionary measures are being implemented to safeguard supply chains and prevent potential market disruptions.

To secure continued energy imports, Pakistan has approached Saudi Arabia to facilitate oil shipments through alternative Red Sea routes, bypassing the Strait of Hormuz. In addition, Pakistan State Oil has reportedly issued import tenders for shipments that would avoid the affected maritime corridor.

The situation has also significantly increased the cost of importing fuel. Insurance premiums for oil shipments have reportedly surged from about $30,000 to nearly $400,000 per vessel, while freight costs have risen to over $4 million per shipment, up from roughly $900,000 previously.

Officials warn that if the rising import costs are not managed through policy adjustments, the price gap could reach around Rs45–50 per litre for diesel and Rs25–26 per litre for petrol.

A cabinet committee led by the finance minister is closely monitoring developments and reviewing options to ensure stable fuel availability while minimizing the economic impact on consumers and the broader economy.

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CategoriesNews Investment

Mobilink Bank, SEDF Launch Rs1 Billion Financing Initiative for SMEs in Sindh

KARACHI: Mobilink Bank has signed a five-year partnership agreement with the Sindh Enterprise Development Fund (SEDF) to improve access to financing for micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) across Sindh.

Under the arrangement, the collaboration will make up to Rs1 billion available to support businesses operating in priority economic sectors in the province. The initiative combines Mobilink Bank’s lending services with SEDF’s markup subsidy programme to help lower the cost of borrowing for entrepreneurs.

The financing facility will target a range of sectors, including agriculture value chains, livestock and dairy, poultry, fisheries, cold storage and logistics, renewable and alternative energy, mining and mineral processing, and innovation-driven information technology projects. The programme will also extend support to women-led enterprises.

Mobilink Bank will offer short-, medium-, and long-term financing options to eligible MSMEs. SEDF will provide a markup subsidy of up to one-year KIBOR or 10 percent, whichever is lower. The subsidy will initially apply for a period of three years, with the possibility of extension based on the programme’s performance.

Individual projects will be eligible to receive financing of up to Rs5 million, with flexibility for higher allocations in cases involving innovative business models.

Officials stated that the initiative is intended to strengthen financial access for small businesses and encourage economic activity across Sindh’s value-added industries. The partnership also reflects broader efforts to improve coordination between financial institutions and public sector programmes aimed at supporting enterprise development in the province.

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CategoriesNews

CDA Moves to Upgrade Islamabad’s Waste Collection System with New Machinery

ISLAMABAD: The Capital Development Authority (CDA) has approved measures to enhance Islamabad’s sanitation system, including the procurement of modern machinery to improve garbage collection across the city. The decision was taken during a meeting chaired by CDA Chairman and Chief Commissioner of Islamabad, Muhammad Ali Randhawa, at the authority’s headquarters.

Officials reviewed a strategy aimed at strengthening both primary and secondary waste collection services. The CDA decided to address immediate gaps in equipment and manpower to improve efficiency in sanitation operations. A citywide cleanliness drive will also be launched as part of the broader plan.

Authorities were informed that additional waste containers will be installed in both urban and rural areas, while damaged units will be repaired. The number of waste trolleys will be increased, and more dustbins will be placed at designated locations to facilitate proper disposal.

A three-bin system will be introduced in commercial centres to support waste segregation and recycling. The CDA also plans to involve traders and local residents in cleanliness efforts through coordination mechanisms such as neighbourhood committees.

To strengthen enforcement, fines will be imposed on individuals or businesses found responsible for littering. The Islamabad Food Authority will monitor restaurants to ensure proper waste management practices.

The meeting also decided to establish a round-the-clock control room to oversee sanitation operations. Helpline numbers for complaints will be displayed on digital screens for public access. Field staff will be equipped with communication devices and new uniforms, and a registration process will be introduced for waste collectors operating in the city.

The measures are aimed at improving overall sanitation standards in the federal capital.

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CategoriesNews Economy Investment

PSX Trading Suspended After KSE-100 Falls Over 15,000 Points

KARACHI: Trading at the Pakistan Stock Exchange (PSX) was suspended for one hour on Monday after the benchmark KSE-100 index recorded a sharp decline of more than 15,000 points during intra-day trading.

According to market figures, the KSE-100 index dropped by 15,071.01 points, bringing it down to 152,991.15 points from the previous closing level of 168,062.16 points. The decrease represents a decline of 8.97 percent. Trading was halted temporarily in accordance with market regulations to manage volatility and prevent further losses.

The market downturn occurred amid heightened geopolitical tensions involving Iran, Israel, and the United States, which affected global financial markets.

In international energy markets, Brent crude oil prices rose approximately 10 percent in over-the-counter trading on Sunday, reaching around $80 per barrel. Prior to this increase, Brent had closed at $73 per barrel on Friday, marking its highest level since July. Analysts indicated that continued developments in the Middle East could influence further price movements in global oil markets.

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SBP Reserves Increase
CategoriesNews Economy

SBP Reserves Increase by $16 Million Amid Stable External Position

KARACHI: Pakistan’s foreign exchange reserves held by the State Bank of Pakistan (SBP) rose modestly by $16 million during the week ended February 20, 2026, reaching $16.21 billion, according to official data released on Thursday. The marginal increase reflects continued stability in the country’s external account position amid ongoing economic management efforts.

With the latest rise, Pakistan’s total liquid foreign exchange reserves stood at approximately $21.41 billion. Of this amount, around $5.2 billion is held by commercial banks, while the remaining balance is maintained by the central bank. The weekly uptick, though small in magnitude, indicates a steady reserve position supported by controlled external payments and stable inflows.

Foreign exchange reserves play a critical role in maintaining macroeconomic stability. They provide a cushion against external shocks, support the national currency, and enable the country to meet its import and external debt obligations. Analysts note that maintaining reserves above the $16 billion mark at the central bank level offers investors and international stakeholders monitoring Pakistan’s financial health a degree of confidence.

The recent trend of incremental increases suggests that the central bank’s reserve management strategy is yielding gradual improvements. While the $16 million rise does not represent a significant surge, it signals stability at a time when global economic conditions remain uncertain and emerging markets continue to face external pressures.

Economic observers emphasize that sustained growth in reserves over the coming weeks will be essential to strengthen market sentiment and reinforce exchange rate stability. Continued inflows from exports, remittances, and multilateral financing arrangements are expected to further bolster the country’s foreign exchange position.

The SBP releases foreign reserve data weekly to provide transparency and keep markets informed about developments in the external sector.

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CategoriesNews Developments Economy Investment Urban Developments & Planning

Pakistan Moves to Revive Roosevelt Hotel with $5 Billion Investment

ISLAMABAD: Pakistan is aiming to secure up to $5 billion in investment to redevelop the Roosevelt Hotel in New York City, as part of efforts to maximize returns from one of its most valuable international properties.

Government officials indicate that a financial adviser will soon be appointed to design the investment structure and engage potential global partners for the redevelopment initiative. The Roosevelt Hotel, located in Manhattan’s Midtown district and owned by Pakistan International Airlines (PIA), has been closed since 2020 due to prolonged financial challenges during the pandemic.

Built in 1924, the landmark property is located in a globally significant commercial area. Authorities are exploring plans to convert the site into a large-scale mixed-use or high-rise development through a joint venture. Under this model, Pakistan would retain ownership of the land while private investors would contribute the required capital.

The move follows a cooperation framework agreed between Pakistan and the United States to support the redevelopment process and help navigate regulatory and zoning procedures in New York. Officials consider the project an important component of broader reforms aimed at restructuring state-owned assets, attracting foreign direct investment, and expanding economic collaboration between the two countries.

The proposed redevelopment aligns with Pakistan’s wider economic reform agenda and ongoing financial stabilization efforts. Analysts believe that, if executed effectively, the project could substantially increase the property’s market value and generate sustainable long-term revenue.

Despite optimism, observers note that the initiative’s outcome will depend on investor participation, clear financial planning, and efficient execution, as several key financing and timeline details remain under discussion.

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CategoriesNews Urban Developments & Planning

CDA Clears Urban Renewal Framework for Kachi Abadis

ISLAMABAD: The Capital Development Authority (CDA) has approved a comprehensive urban regeneration plan aimed at upgrading recognised kachi abadis across the Islamabad Capital Territory. The decision was taken during a CDA Board meeting chaired by Chairman and Chief Commissioner Islamabad Muhammad Ali Randhawa.

The approved framework introduces new regulations focused on the regularisation, improvement, and possible relocation of informal settlements under an organised urban development strategy. The initiative is intended to integrate recognised kachi abadis into Islamabad’s formal planning system while improving living conditions for residents.

Under the plan, only individuals verified as residents through official surveys conducted up to December 31, 2002, will be eligible to benefit from the programme. The CDA Planning Wing will carry out fresh surveys of the settlements to prepare updated layout plans and development proposals.

The regeneration process will include infrastructure upgrades and the provision of essential municipal services. Planned improvements cover road and street development, rehabilitation works, and measures aimed at enhancing access to basic urban facilities within these communities.

Officials stated that the initiative aligns with legal provisions under the CDA Ordinance 1960 and follows directives issued by the Supreme Court to regulate informal housing areas through structured planning measures.

The approved measures form part of broader efforts to promote planned urban growth and improve civic infrastructure across Islamabad while addressing long-standing issues related to informal settlements.

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CategoriesNews Economy Property Laws Real Estate Taxes

Balochistan Revenue Authority Mandates Registration of Property Dealers

QUETTA: The Balochistan Revenue Authority (BRA) has directed property dealers, real estate agents, and related service providers across the province to register with the tax authority and comply with the newly enforced sales tax regulations, according to an official announcement issued recently.

Under the directive, individuals and businesses engaged in services related to the buying, selling, and renting of immovable property are required to obtain formal registration with the BRA and ensure the timely submission of tax returns for each applicable tax period. The authority has introduced a 5% sales tax on property-related services in accordance with amendments made by the Finance Act 2025 under the Balochistan Sales Tax on Services Act, 2015.

Officials stated that the measure aims to improve transparency and documentation within the real estate sector, which has historically remained under-regulated in terms of tax compliance. By bringing property service providers into the formal tax framework, the government expects to strengthen provincial revenue collection while promoting accountability in property transactions.

The BRA has warned that failure to comply with the registration and tax payment requirements may result in penalties, legal proceedings, or enforcement actions under relevant tax laws. Authorities emphasized that unregistered agents or those who fail to submit returns could face strict action as part of broader efforts to ensure adherence to fiscal regulations.

Tax officials noted that the initiative is part of ongoing reforms aimed at expanding the tax base and reducing revenue leakage in the service sectors. Stakeholders in the real estate industry have been urged to cooperate with the authority and complete registration procedures promptly to avoid disruptions to their business operations.

The development reflects increasing regulatory oversight of Pakistan’s property market as provincial governments seek sustainable revenue sources amid growing fiscal pressures.

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CategoriesNews Taxes

AJK Launches ‘Tax Asaan’ Mobile App to Digitise Revenue Services

MUZAFFARABAD: The government of Azad Jammu and Kashmir (AJK) has launched the Tax Asaan mobile application, a digital platform designed to simplify tax-related services and improve interaction between taxpayers and the revenue department.

The application was introduced as part of broader efforts to modernize the region’s tax administration through technology-driven solutions. Officials stated that the platform enables users to access a range of services through their mobile devices, including verification of sales invoices, viewing registration records, checking tax return details, making online payments, and monitoring the status of applications.

Alongside the mobile app, authorities also introduced a digital monitoring system aimed at strengthening oversight of revenue collection. The system is intended to support administrative planning and enhance efficiency by providing real-time data and performance tracking tools for officials.

The initiative builds upon earlier digital reforms introduced within the tax system, including electronic invoicing mechanisms, and is aimed at improving transparency and reducing procedural delays. By shifting key services online, the government seeks to make tax compliance more accessible while streamlining operational processes within the revenue department.

Officials noted that the introduction of digital platforms is expected to improve service delivery and facilitate easier compliance for taxpayers across AJK. The move reflects ongoing efforts to adopt modern administrative practices and strengthen revenue management through the use of technology.

The Tax Asaan application is now available for public use, marking another step toward digitisation of government services in the region.

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