Business

Out Of The Frying Pan And Straight Into The Fire

Published

6 years ago

April 6, 2020

Plausibly anticipated nightmare of financial crisis amidst the pandemic of COVID-19 may hit the Pakistan hardest ever. Are we ready to withstand the storm of unemployment and the tsunami of inflation? The answer is No.

As of now, all we have from the government is empty rhetoric. Instead of hitting the bull’s eye, there is a ridiculously obvious competition between the ruling party and opposition in Pakistan, hitherto not deteriorating the milieu. Let the cat out of the bag.

In this crucial time, even the largest economies across the globe are coming to a screeching halt. What would we expect from an economy recovering from the crisis and relying on the IMF’s bailout? Impacts would be unimaginable.

According to the World Integrated Trade Solution (WITS) statistics, Pakistan holds 37% export share with Europe, 16% with the United States, and 7.69% with China. Unfortunately, these all are facing a disgusting war on the virus.

Karachi, the beating heart of Pakistan’s economy, is under partial lockdown thus limiting all the financial activities. On the other hand, Faisalabad’s textile sector largely relies on China for bulk exports, which is halted for an indefinite period. And Sialkot’s industrialists are estimating on employees to downsize: unleashing the joblessness among daily wage earners.

On the other hand, the Government of Pakistan has announced generous relief packages, subsidies, and refunding rebates. Cabinet has approved PM’s 1.2 trillion rupees’ relief package.

According to the Economic Coordination Committee (ECC), 100 billion emergency fund was set to deal with the pandemic effects. Also, under the umbrella of the “Ehsaas Kifalat Program,” 12,000 rupees on a monthly basis are agreed to provide 20.2 million families across the nation.

Besides, the Federal Bureau of Revenue is directed to issue 75 billion in tax refunds. Similarly, hefty amounts are allocated for utility stores, Pakistan railways, procurement of medical supplies, wheat stock, and National Disaster Management body.

All these necessary evils would have a drastic effect on the national treasury. Consequently, there would be a further devaluation of Pakistani currency and prevailing inflation. Hence, it would be harder for people to meet even their basic expenses shortly in Pakistan.

Here another point should be considered that even if the lockdown is abrogated in Pakistan still the wheel of the economy would not be in motion. As most of our products’ markets are closed or at the brink of closure.

So, we should have an Economic National Action Plan like the plan we have executed regarding the war on terrorism. The government should take measures as same as it is always ready to take in case of National Security. The ruling party should stop the pump and show, rhetoric, and lips service.

The Pakistan government should observe strictly the status of necessities in the country lest it would turn into a hunger-mob game. Also, government policymakers should take it into account seriously. Cartels, monopolies, and mafias should be dealt with iron hands.

On the other hand, the Government can use Polio workers and government teachers to fetch accurate data about the people living on daily wages and deserving families. It would help to scale the measures on a broader level. Waiting to have a messiah is not the right way to mitigate the challenge. People should also observe law and precautionary measures. Let Pakistan be a messiah of its sores.

Related Topics:chinavirus Corona Coronavirus

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Business

Zong Special Bundles for Hajj Pilgrims

Published

1 month ago

May 5, 2026

Haris Sarfraz Ali

ISLAMABAD – Zong, Pakistan’s leading technology service enterprise, has launched customized bundles for the 2026 Hajj pilgrimage, aimed at ensuring seamless connectivity and uninterrupted communication for pilgrims throughout their sacred journey.

Zong ensures continuity through international roaming services, allowing pilgrims to continue using their existing Pakistan number while staying connected on Zong’s own network. With instant connectivity upon arrival at the airport, users can access communication services immediately and share important updates and cherished moments without disruption throughout their journey.

A key highlight of these bundles is seamless WhatsApp-based communication in Saudi Arabia, enabling pilgrims to stay connected with family and loved ones on their existing Zong number without any additional setup.

The bundle portfolio features the Saudi Arabia IR WhatsApp Offer (1 GB for PKR 1,374), Mini Hajj Bundle (2 GB, 10 mins, 10 SMS for PKR 1,500), and the Super Hajj Bundle (5 GB, 20 mins, 50 SMS for PKR 3,000). For higher-usage customers, the Mega Hajj Bundle provides 10 GB of data, an additional 2 GB for WhatsApp, 60 minutes, and 60 SMS for PKR 5,500. All bundles are valid for 30 days, ensuring reliable, convenient and uninterrupted communication throughout the pilgrimage.

Khurram Ishaq, Head of International Business, Zong, stated: “Supporting Pakistan’s pilgrims is a responsibility we hold close to our hearts. We’ve moved beyond standard offerings to design truly personalized bundles that reflect how families communicate today.

By prioritizing seamless, high-speed access for the apps pilgrims rely on most, such as WhatsApp, we are addressing the modern traveler’s need for convenience and peace of mind. We are proud to serve as the bridge that keeps our customers connected to home, allowing them to remain fully focused on this journey of a lifetime.”

Zong users can conveniently subscribe to these special bundles through the Zong website, My Zong App, or by dialing 310.

Through these specially curated offerings, Zong continues to drive Pakistan’s digital transformation agenda through innovative solutions and services, ensuring uninterrupted communication and a seamless experience for pilgrims.

Business

itel Energy showcases AI-powered solar solutions at Lahore expo

Published

1 month ago

April 23, 2026

Haris Sarfraz Ali

LAHORE – itel Energy concluded its participation as a diamond sponsor at the Lahore Solar Expo 2026 on April 22, presenting a range of renewable energy solutions aimed at strengthening Pakistan’s energy resilience.

The three-day exhibition attracted industry professionals and technology enthusiasts, with the company using the platform to introduce its latest innovations in solar and energy storage technologies.

A key highlight of the showcase was the Sparta Series hybrid inverter, featuring an AI-based optimisation system branded as SmartGo AI. According to the company, the system monitors weather patterns and adjusts battery usage automatically to maintain uninterrupted power supply during adverse conditions.

itel Energy also presented its Power Series portable energy solutions, which it said are equipped with Grade A lithium iron phosphate (LiFePO4) cells designed to ensure durability and a lifespan of up to 10 years.

In addition, the company demonstrated its commercial and industrial (C&I) energy systems, including the IPX-51314SPT battery solution. The system is designed to support scalable energy storage, allowing businesses to expand backup capacity up to 768kWh.

Speaking at the event, itel Energy Vice-President Eason Duan said the company’s “Power Up Pakistan” initiative focuses on providing reliable and intelligent energy solutions to households and industries.

The company said its participation in the expo reflects a broader commitment to promoting sustainable energy adoption and supporting the country’s transition towards cleaner power sources.

Business

Saad Ali Qureshi launches USPBA Pakistan chapter to promote trade and investment

Published

2 months ago

April 2, 2026

Haris Sarfraz Ali

LAHORE – The US–Pakistan Business Alliance (USPBA) was successfully launched under Chairman Saad Ali Qureshi, COO of Rustum Associates and Dynamic Constructors. This marks a key advancement in boosting bilateral trade, investment, and economic collaboration between Pakistan and the United States.

The newly formed alliance aims to create a dynamic platform that connects entrepreneurs, investors, industry leaders, and professionals from both countries. By fostering collaboration and building strategic partnerships, the alliance seeks to unlock new opportunities for trade expansion, innovation, and sustainable economic growth.
Addressing the launch ceremony, Chairman Saad Ali Qureshi emphasized the importance of stronger economic ties between Pakistan and the United States. He stated that the US–Pakistan Business Alliance will play a vital role in bridging the gap between the business communities of both nations and facilitating meaningful partnerships.

“The establishment of the US–Pakistan Business Alliance is a major milestone in strengthening commercial relations between Pakistan and the United States. Our mission is to empower entrepreneurs, promote investment opportunities, and create a supportive platform where businesses from both countries can collaborate and grow together,” said Saad Ali Qureshi.

He further added that the alliance will focus on encouraging cross-border investments, supporting startups and emerging businesses, and promoting innovation across various sectors, including technology, manufacturing, trade, and services.

The alliance also plans to organize international business forums, networking events, trade delegations, and policy dialogues aimed at bringing together business leaders, policymakers, and investors. These initiatives will help facilitate knowledge exchange, strengthen economic partnerships, and promote mutual understanding between the private sectors of both countries.

Business leaders, entrepreneurs, and stakeholders welcomed the launch of the alliance and expressed optimism that the platform will open new avenues for cooperation and create long-term opportunities for trade and investment. They noted that such initiatives are essential for building stronger economic bridges and enhancing global business connectivity.

The launch of the US–Pakistan Business Alliance is being viewed as a positive and forward-looking development that will contribute to the expansion of bilateral trade, encourage foreign investment, and strengthen long-term economic collaboration between Pakistan and the United States.

Through its initiatives and partnerships, the alliance aims to become a key platform for promoting business growth, supporting economic diplomacy, and fostering stronger commercial ties between the two nations.