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The government has reduced petrol by Rs6 per litre and high-speed diesel by Rs6.80 per litre, with new rates effective from May 23. The cut offers limited relief, though both major fuels remain above Rs400 per litre.
The State Bank of Pakistan has warned that climate disasters are already imposing heavy economic risks on the country, with GDP losses projected to deepen by 2050. Agriculture, industry, food security and public finances remain among the areas most exposed to future climate shocks.
Pakistan Stock Exchange rallied strongly as the KSE-100 index gained 1,934.74 points during intraday trading. The recovery followed renewed buying interest and improved sentiment linked to easing geopolitical concerns.
Pakistan has revived offshore energy exploration after nearly two decades by signing new Production Sharing Agreements and Exploration Licences. The move covers offshore blocks in the Indus and Makran basins and is aimed at attracting investment and reducing import dependence.
The IMF has expressed concern over Pakistan’s solar policy as officials prepare to brief the lender on net metering, net billing and power-sector reforms. The issue could affect solar consumers, DISCO privatisation and Pakistan’s wider energy reform agenda.
The federal government has exempted markets, shops, malls, bakeries and eateries from early closure timings until May 31. The decision gives temporary relief to traders and follows similar relaxations already announced by Punjab, Sindh and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.
The Sindh government has lifted fixed market closing-time restrictions for shops, malls, restaurants, hotels, wedding halls and marquees. Officials say the decision is meant to support businesses, public convenience and economic activity after earlier austerity-linked curbs.
The IMF has set Pakistan’s federal revenue target at Rs17.145 trillion for FY2026-27, with new budget measures, higher petroleum levy goals and stronger provincial revenue mobilisation. The plan could shape fuel costs, taxation, social protection and the upcoming federal budget debate.
The government has reduced petrol and diesel prices by Rs5 per litre from May 16, bringing limited relief to consumers after fears of a major hike. The decision is expected to affect commuters, transporters and businesses while keeping attention on the next fuel price review.
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has approved a national task force to prepare Pakistan’s waste-to-energy policy and investment roadmap. The body will review current systems, study global practices and recommend legal, regulatory and financing reforms for future projects.
Punjab has temporarily lifted the 8pm market closure restriction, allowing shops, malls, hotels, restaurants and food outlets to remain open beyond prescribed hours until June 1. The decision gives relief to traders and consumers while broader federal austerity measures continue.
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif met an 11-member Chinese business delegation led by IBI Beijing United Technology founder Qian Xiaojun in Islamabad. The talks focused on a proposed Pakistan digital economy headquarters, SME access to Chinese markets and deeper business-to-business cooperation.
