Business

There’s a continuous debate that burning rice crop residue in Punjab is the primary contributor to smog. Every year, policymakers shift all the responsibility to farmers. In addition to policymakers, urban residents also attribute the emergence of smog to the burning of rice stubbles in Punjab. The case of Lahore is very serious as it retained its position as the …

Wrapping up 2023 may have left many disappointed, dazed and disoriented despite Pakistan managing to avert a sovereign default and navigating through even more challenging conditions. However, for most businesses, the year concluded on a bitter note. Vulnerable segments grappled with the escalating cost of living and diminishing real incomes. The class that had historically adeptly navigated not only survival …

Over the last year, the price per egg has increased by about Rs10, of which the Rs5 hike has come over the last month alone. Though some media reports point towards profiteering by shopkeepers, the recent price hike seems to be driven by a demand and supply gap for a key ingredient in poultry rearing — soybean meal. Over the …

In 2018, Pakistan’s development Roadmap ‘Vision 2025’ targeted increasing female labour force participation to 45 per cent in 2025. However, as we end 2023, Pakistan’s female labour force participation remains at 24pc, with participation in the formal sector lingering at less than 10pc. Time and again, women leave their jobs and either pursue career options which revolve around the school …

ISLAMABAD: The World Bank fears that following the upcoming elections, strong and organised vested interests may spur a number of potential reversals on critical policy reforms — committed to multilateral lenders — posing ‘high’ macroeconomic risks to Pakistan. The possible reversals include the rationalisation of gas and electricity subsidies, lower trade tariffs and better property tax realisation. “Stakeholder risks are high …

KARACHI: Following a years-long spell of bearish activity, the stock market re-emerged as the highest return provider in 2023 by outperforming all major asset classes. A research note released by Topline Securities Ltd on Saturday said the benchmark of major shares listed on the Pakistan Stock Exchange gained 53 per cent, including dividends, in the outgoing year (until Dec 22). …

YUMA: As the world pivots from planet-warming fossil fuels to renewable energy, a new pollution problem is rearing its head: What to do with old or worn-out solar panels? Thousands of photovoltaic slabs are being installed across the United States every day, particularly in the sunny west and south of the country, as states like California race towards greener energy …

ISLAMABAD: The Asian Development Bank has approved a technical assistance project for resilient and inclusive agricultural development and food security in the Central Asia Regional Economic Cooperation (CAREC) Programme member countries including Pakistan. The overall impact of the ADB assistance will help increase inclusive, productive, resilient, and sustainable agriculture and enhance food security in the CAREC region. The regional technical …

KARACHI: Stock investors opted to book profits in the outgoing week, which resulted in the benchmark index closing in the red. Arif Habib Ltd said market-driving news included the Asian Development Bank announcing a $1.2 billion loan agreement with Pakistan. In addition, the World Bank approved $350 million for economic reforms. After June 2023, Pakistan recorded for the first time …

KARACHI: The arrival of imported raw materials and finished goods, as well as export shipments to European countries and the United States, may face hardships due to rising freight charges following an extended travel time caused by intensifying attacks on shipping vessels by Houthi militants in the Red Sea. As a result, consumers will bear the brunt of paying higher …