Day: March 18, 2026

Islamabad: Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has directed authorities to take proactive steps to reinforce Pakistan’s petroleum import supply chain in light of ongoing regional uncertainties impacting global energy markets. Chairing a high-level meeting on fuel conservation and economic stability, the Prime Minister instructed Petroleum Minister Ali Pervaiz Malik to ensure preparedness for any potential disruptions. He also directed all relevant institutions to remain ready for emergency interventions until the situation stabilises. Officials briefed the meeting on progress made in implementing the government’s austerity and resource conservation measures. It was noted…

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Karachi: A sharp rise in global oil prices amid escalating tensions in the Middle East has heightened inflationary concerns, prompting expectations that the State Bank of Pakistan (SBP) may increase its policy rate in the upcoming monetary policy meeting scheduled for April 27. Financial analysts point to a significant jump in treasury bill (T-bill) yields in the latest auction as a clear signal of tightening monetary conditions. Yields rose by up to 100 basis points, creating room for a potential increase in the benchmark interest rate, which currently stands at…

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Karachi/Lahore: Yango Ride, part of the global tech firm Yango Group, has become the first ride-hailing platform in Pakistan to receive an official Transport Network Company (TNC) operating license from the Punjab Provincial Transport Authority, marking a major milestone for the country’s evolving mobility sector. The license allows Yango Ride to operate under the Provincial Motor Vehicle (Amendment) Act, 2025, which formally regulates ride-hailing services in Punjab. The approval follows months of engagement between the company, the Punjab Transport Ministry, and other government stakeholders to implement a comprehensive licensing framework…

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Islamabad: Pakistan’s federal government debt has increased significantly during the tenure of Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, with official data revealing a rise of Rs14.5 trillion over a span of 23 months. According to documents released by the State Bank of Pakistan (SBP), the surge in debt occurred between March 2024 and January 2026. The figures show that domestic debt witnessed a substantial increase of Rs13.303 trillion, while external debt rose by Rs1.209 trillion during the same period. The data highlights the growing reliance on borrowing amid ongoing fiscal pressures, as…

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