LAHORE – The Punjab government has proposed increasing the sales tax on restaurant transactions made through digital payment channels as part of the Punjab Finance Bill 2026.

Under the proposed changes, payments made through debit cards, credit cards, mobile wallets and QR codes would be taxed at 8pc, compared to the current rate of 5pc.

The bill also maintains a 16pc sales tax on transactions conducted through other payment methods.

Officials say the revised tax structure is aimed at increasing provincial revenue while continuing to encourage the use of documented payment channels in the restaurant sector.

If approved by the provincial assembly, the measure would make digitally paid dine-in and takeaway orders slightly more expensive, though they would still be subject to a lower tax rate than transactions made through non-digital means.

The existing 5pc rate was introduced to promote electronic payments and improve tax compliance. The proposed increase seeks to preserve the incentive for digital transactions while narrowing the gap between the two tax slabs.

The Punjab Finance Bill 2026 is currently under consideration and will require legislative approval before the revised rates can take effect.

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.

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.