Connect with us

Business

Global trade remains resilient as businesses stay optimistic despite Trump’s tariffs

Published

7 months ago

on

LAHORE – Despite US President Trump’s tariffs continuing to impact trade flows significantly, business leaders remain cautiously optimistic about global trade prospects for their companies.

During one of the most turbulent periods for global trade in decades, business leaders and finance professionals were surveyed and interviewed for a significant report titled “The Outlook for Global Trade: Perspectives from Business Leaders.” This report was produced by the leading global accountancy organization, ACCA (the Association of Chartered Certified Accountants).

While 85% of respondents were concerned about the impacts of tariffs on their organisations, the results show company bosses are surprisingly positive about the future. The survey found optimistic views, with 56% of respondents expecting their organisations to increase their amount of global trade ‘significantly’ or ‘somewhat’ in the next three to five years. While less optimistically, 23% expected trade to decrease ‘somewhat’ or ‘significantly’.

A majority of C-suite executives were even more positive about the future, with 38% and 29% of respondents respectively expecting their firm’s amount of global trade to increase ‘significantly’ or ‘somewhat’.

Jonathan Ashworth, Chief Economist, ACCA, said: ‘2025 has been a monumental year for international trade, with the US raising its import tariffs to their highest level since the 1930s.

‘The global economy has so far proved more resilient than expected to the disruptions in global trade, but the risk is for some slowing over the coming quarters. Nevertheless, the survey results suggest that business leaders appear relatively optimistic about their enterprises’ medium-term trade prospects, and they are overwhelmingly positive about the benefits of an open global trading system.’

From our own interviews with business leaders and policy experts, it seems that they are not expecting an outright fall in global trade. However, rising protectionism and geopolitical tensions were clearly seen as important headwinds for its future growth. Rising tariffs were not viewed as the only friction in international trade; sanctions were also cited as a key issue.’

Perhaps it was not surprising that ‘geopolitical tensions’, ‘international or civil conflicts/wars’, and ‘protectionist policies in advanced economies’ were viewed as the top three risks. Business leaders were equally clear on the top three opportunities as well, which may in part explain their optimism for the future. Firmly in first place, cited by half of all respondents, was to ‘use technology (e.g., AI) to help facilitate global trade’, followed by ‘diversifying production, investment, or location of suppliers’ and ‘gain access to new technologies’.

The major changes in US trade policy could have profound impacts on future global trade patterns and flows. The survey revealed that 60% of organisations have already moved the location of some of their production, investment, or suppliers in recent years, and 61% say they are likely to do so in the next few years.

The research also flagged another danger: economists warn that a less open and more fragmented global trading system is likely to push up prices, and this was confirmed by the survey. Around 35% of respondents report that their organisation’s costs are likely to increase by more than 10% due to changes in global trade in the coming years, while 46% expect them to increase by up to 10%. 11% expect them to stay the same, while just 6% expect them to decrease.

Related Topics:
Continue Reading

Business

itel Energy showcases AI-powered solar solutions at Lahore expo

Published

1 week ago

on

April 23, 2026

By

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.

Continue Reading

Business

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

Published

4 weeks ago

on

April 2, 2026

By

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.

Continue Reading

Business

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

Published

1 month ago

on

April 1, 2026

By

 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.

Continue Reading

Trending

Copyright © 2026