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Daraz and HBL partner to fuel growth in Pakistan’s SME sector

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Daraz and HBL partner to fuel growth in Pakistan’s SME sector

KARACHI – Daraz and HBL have signed a strategic partnership agreement to enable the growth of Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) by inviting SMEs to set up online shops on Daraz, and avail HBL’s extensive banking solutions to meet their financial needs.

HBL is Pakistan’s largest bank and a leader in the SME segment while Daraz is the country’s leading e-commerce platform.

As part of the partnership, HBL is encouraging its SME clients to set up their online ventures on Daraz thereby availing the business and financial support the platform is offering under the recently launched Daraz Humqadam program. The Humqadam program includes commission fees waiver for May and June, free-of-cost educational support and training on Daraz University, express sign-ups, and free marketing to promote SME businesses and setting up their online shops within days.

Daraz with its online retail footprint in more than 500 cities, towns, and districts and over 5 million monthly active users nationwide is in a unique position to empower SMEs and facilitate their transition towards online retail.

Combined with HBL’s national presence, largest distribution network, extensive financing solutions, and investment in technology, the partnership presents an excellent opportunity for SMEs to reach millions of customers nationwide, increase demand for their products and invest in their business growth. The partnership aims to boost the national economy in the long term.

Ehsan Saya, Managing Director-Daraz Pakistan said, “HBL and Daraz have a rich history together and have enabled thousands of Pakistanis to participate in Digital Payments. As a continuation of our partnership with HBL, we aim to offer the same level of service to our rapidly growing seller base. At Daraz, we take full ownership of fueling Pakistan’s economy during this difficult economic period and there is no sector that fuels growth like the SME sector. We are very proud to have joined hands with HBL to work towards this goal.”

Commenting on the partnership with Daraz, Aamir Kureshi, Head Consumer, Rural, and SME Banking – HBL, said, “SME is a key pillar of growth for the economy as well as for providing gainful employment opportunities to the wider population of the country. Our expanded partnership with Daraz to support SMEs is in line with our commitment to this key economic sector. HBL continues to focus on technology-based solutions for financial inclusion. We look forward to working with Daraz on a sustained basis to play our part in the economic development of Pakistan.”

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itel Energy showcases AI-powered solar solutions at Lahore expo

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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.

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

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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.

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CBD Pulse emerges as Punjab’s strongest signal to global investors

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 LAHORE – In today’s competitive global economy, where investors favour stability, growth potential, and quick returns, Central Business District Punjab (CBD Punjab) emphasises this message through CBD Pulse: Punjab is prepared for investment, and the moment to invest is now.

CBD Pulse is not just another promotional campaign; it is a strategic investment signal aimed at attracting serious investors, visionary developers and international partners. It reflects real momentum driven by execution and showcases a pipeline of high-value urban assets positioned to generate strong, long-term returns.

At a time when investors prioritize transparency and stability, CBD Punjab distinguishes itself through structured planning, regulatory clarity and rapid on-ground development. CBD Pulse brings this ecosystem into focus, highlighting premium commercial districts, high-yield real estate opportunities and modern infrastructure built to meet global standards.

What sets CBD Pulse apart is simple it is grounded in visible progress, not future promises. From accelerated development across key corridors to the rollout of strategically located projects, CBD Punjab is turning ambition into tangible results. The approach is clear prioritize speed, ensure delivery and maximize value creation.

For institutional investors, developers and strategic stakeholders, CBD Pulse offers a compelling advantage early entry into a rapidly growing urban market. With Pakistan’s urban expansion accelerating and demand for organized commercial infrastructure increasing, CBD Punjab is uniquely positioned to capture this growth at scale.

The initiative also reflects a strong pro-investment environment, backed by government support, streamlined procedures and investor-focused policies. These elements reduce barriers to entry while strengthening investor confidence an essential factor for both local and international participants.

CBD Pulse is designed to keep investors informed and engaged. Through regular updates, data-driven insights and direct communication channels, it ensures decision-makers have timely access to critical information. In fast-moving markets, timing and access are everything and CBD Pulse delivers both.

More than just infrastructure, CBD Pulse represents a shift in perception. It positions Punjab as a credible, competitive investment destination on the global stage. The objective is clear: attract capital, enable growth, and deliver measurable outcomes.

For those looking to invest in the future of urban Pakistan, the opportunity is open but not indefinitely. Early movers are best positioned to benefit as CBD Punjab continues to expand and unlock new value. CBD Pulse is more than an initiative it is a call to action. The investments made today will shape the skyline of tomorrow.

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