Category: Business

Pakistan (Muhammad Yasir)

Public Private Partnership Unit, Government of Sindh (PPPU) and InfraZamin Pakistan Limited (IZP), are pleased to announce the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to provide local currency guarantee solutions for infrastructure projects in Sindh under the Public-Private Partnership Mode. The aim of this collaboration is to foster economic and social development activities by offering a Credit Guarantee facility. The signing ceremony, chaired by Syed Qassim Naveed Qamar, Special Assistant to CM Sindh for Investment Department and PPP Projects, was attended by officials and dignitaries from the public and private sectors. Mr. Assad Zamin, Director General of PPPU and Ms. Maheen Rehman, CEO of IZP, signed the MoU on behalf of their respective organizations. Established in 2010, the PPPU has emerged as a key player in fostering Public-Private Partnership projects, actively supporting government departments in project preparation and execution through strategic collaborations with private stakeholders. Acting as a dynamic catalyst for fostering successful partnerships, the PPPU has effectively delivered a multitude of projects across diverse sectors, boasting an impressive volume of approximately PKR 58 billion. Presently, it manages an extensive portfolio valued at an astounding PKR 700 billion. Notably, The Economist Magazine’s Intelligence Unit’s esteemed report “Infrascope 2018” recognized the Sindh Public-Private Partnership Program as the 6th Best in Asia, solidifying its global reputation. InfraZamin is an innovative credit enhancement Company, conceived and designed by the Private Infrastructure Development Group to issue credit guarantees for promoting private sector and public/private partnership infrastructure projects. Focus sectors are Renewable Energy, Water Sewage & Sanitation, Bulk Storage/Logistic Facilities, Digital Communications & Infrastructure, Affordable Housing, Health & Education, and Agricultural Infrastructure. The collaboration between PPPU and IZP is poised to generate mutual benefits for all stakeholders, while fostering an investment-friendly climate in the Province of Sindh. This strategic partnership marks a significant milestone in ensuring financial inclusion and revitalizing overlooked sectors, with a special emphasis on the PPP projects in technological innovation, waste water treatments sectors, and modernization of overall Sindh’s infrastructure. Ultimately, this initiative aims to pave the path for comprehensive economic growth across Pakistan.

Pakistan (Muhammad Yasir)  Zong 4G, Pakistan’s leading telecommunications operator, is pleased to announce a new chapter in its partnership with Sehat Kahani, a pioneering telemedicine platform. The new collaboration was launched during a contract signing ceremony in Islamabad.

The contract signing between Zong 4G and Sehat Kahani marks an important milestone in their partnership. The ceremony was graced by the presence of Dr. Sara Saeed Khurram, CEO of Sehat Kahani, and representatives from Zong 4G.

Through this collaboration, Zong 4G and Sehat Kahani aim to extend the reach of telemedicine services across Pakistan. Telemedicine has emerged as a game-changer in healthcare, allowing patients to consult healthcare professionals remotely, thereby reducing the barriers of distance and time. By harnessing Zong 4G’s robust network infrastructure and Sehat Kahani’s innovative telemedicine platform, individuals in even the most remote regions will have access to quality healthcare. This year, Sehat Kahani and Zong 4G plan to increase awareness on a diverse selection of topics in the area of health and mental well-being. Their focus will be on Oncology, water & air borne diseases, mental well-being, and lastly, mother and child health.

Zong 4G and Sehat Kahani have a long-standing relationship, having previously collaborated on various sustainability initiatives. During the COVID-19 pandemic, the two organizations joined forces to provide free online consultations, ensuring access to healthcare during challenging times. Furthermore, in the wake of the devastating floods that hit Pakistan in 2022, Sehat Kahani, with unwavering support from Zong 4G, established medical relief camps in the affected areas. This initiative showcased their commitment to delivering healthcare services to those in dire need.

Dr. Sara Saeed Khurram expressed her enthusiasm by speaking about the partnership, saying, “We are thrilled to partner with Zong 4G to further strengthen our mission of providing accessible healthcare to all Pakistanis. This collaboration will enable us to expand our telemedicine services and significantly impact the lives of millions.”

In his remarks, Zong 4G’s official spokesperson stated, “We have been increasingly proud of Sehat Kahani in its past efforts in the areas of digital medicine and it gives us great pleasure to join hands again to revolutionize the healthcare landscape of Pakistan.”

The partnership between Zong 4G and Sehat Kahani holds immense potential to transform healthcare accessibility and delivery in Pakistan. Through their combined efforts, the two organizations strive to empower communities, improve healthcare outcomes, and create a brighter and healthier future for all.

Karachi (Muhammad Yasir) In a refreshing new take, Shan Foods presents “Malika-e-Tabassum”, a theatrical stand-up comedy show featuring renowned actress Bushra Ansari at the Arts Council Karachi.

Directed by Dawar Mehmood, the show features Ansari in royal attire, eliciting laughter from her audiences and fans through her evergreen comedic genius, witty punchlines, and inimitable charms.

The theatrical standup is a part of Shan Foods’s consistent contributions towards women empowerment, focusing on the women pioneers of the arts and entertainment industry.

“Malika-e-Tabassum” presented by Shan Foods in collaboration with Hum TV, KopyKats Productions, Active Media, and radio channel FM91, premiered on the first of July, and shall be open to the public till the 15^th of July for audience in Karachi. The feature will then be available for Lahore and Islamabad, too, with Ansari bringing her unmatched energy and storytelling prowess to her audiences.

 

Lahore (Nut Desk)

The Bank of Punjab (BOP) Tops amongst the entire Commercial Banking Industry on the Banking on Equality (BoE) Initiative by State Bank of Pakistan (SBP) in the scorecard compiled for CY 2022.

BOP is delighted to announce its remarkable achievement as the number one bank with the highest score and green rating in BoE initiative of SBP. This recognition encompasses all commercial banks, including large, mid-sized, and small-sized institutions, further reinforcing BOP’s commitment to promoting equality and diversity within the banking sector. The SBP’s BoE program assess through a comprehensive scorecard banks performance based on various criteria, including workforce diversity, gender equality, accessibility, and inclusion initiatives.

“We are immensely proud to secure pole position amongst all commercial banks in Pakistan with the highest score and green rating on the BoE initiative,” said Mr. Zafar Masud, President & CEO of The Bank of Punjab. “This achievement is a testament to our ongoing commitment to create an inclusive workplace where diversity is celebrated, and everyone has equal opportunities to grow and succeed.” BOP has been steadfast in its efforts to promote equality within its workforce and broader community.

The bank has implemented robust diversity and inclusion policies, ensuring equal opportunities for all employees and fostering an environment that respects and values differences. BOP has also prioritized accessibility by enhancing banking services to cater to the needs of all customers, including those with disabilities. As part of its commitment to gender equality, BOP has actively promoted women’s participation at all levels of the organization. Programs, such as, mentorship, leadership development, and training opportunities have enabled women employees to excel and thrive in their careers.

BOP’s achievement on the BoE targets underscores its dedication to upholding the highest standards of fairness and equality in the banking industry. The bank will continue to invest in schemes that champion diversity, create an inclusive workplace, and support the communities it serves.

Mastercard partners with JazzCash to revolutionize digital payments in Pakistan.

Pakistan (Muhammad Yasir) Mastercard has announced a collaboration with JazzCash, the largest digital wallet provider in Pakistan serving over 43 million accounts, to revolutionize digital payments by introducing affordable acceptance solutions in the country.  

The partners are launching QR code payments, Pay by Link, and Tap on Phone solutions to facilitate cost-effective and widespread acceptance for merchants at the bottom of the economic pyramid. These solutions will enable fast-growing segments, such as freelancers and gig workers, to accept digital payments, in addition to catering to underserved segments, like micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs).  

Pakistan is home to over 5.2 million MSMEs, 50% of which are owned by women. The country currently has only 220,000 payment acceptance locations, which account for fewer than 1,000 locations per million people.  

“At Mastercard, we have pledged to connect 50 million MSMEs worldwide to the digital economy by 2025, with a special focus on 25 million women-owned businesses. Building on our common goal of promoting financial inclusion, our partnership with JazzCash seeks to empower over five million such enterprises to future-proof their businesses. We look froward to continuing our contribution to the development of a robust, safe, and competitive digital payment ecosystem in Pakistan through our locally relevant solutions and services,” said Dimitrios Dosis, President, Eastern Europe, Middle East and Africa, Mastercard. 

“Narrowing the financial inclusion divide in the country by means of easing a common Pakistani’s, especially women’s, access to financial services has been a top priority for us at JazzCash. Collaborations like these bring us closer to our goals and help us address the needs of previously underserved market segments, enabling businesses and individuals to participate in the digital economy,” said Aamir Ibrahim, Chief Executive Officer, Jazz. 

Pakistan currently has a very low penetration of digital and card transactions, with only around 1% of personal consumption expenditure (PCE) being made through cards. At present, digital payment acceptance is limited to large urban centers and high-end merchants. Through their partnership, Mastercard and JazzCash intend to make payments accessible to the masses. The collaboration aims to expand acceptance infrastructure, allowing consumers to conduct digital transactions at various commerce locations.  

 

Lahore (Nut Desk)

The progressive group comprising the members of the Lahore Chamber has expressed concern over the daily increasing prices of sugar and demanded the government to ban further export of sugar. The Progressive Group President Khalid Usman, Senior Vice President Muhammad Arshad Chaudhry and the LCCI Executive Committee members Muhammad Ejaz Tanveer and Haji Riaz Ul Hassan in a joint statement here on Thursday said that the unbridled rising sugar prices are not only affecting the industries but also the common man. They claimed that food-related industries, hotels, restaurants, beverages and most of all confectionary sector are affected by this and it is directly removing the products related to these industries from the reach of the common man. The leaders of the progressive group further said that not only the sugar mafia but also hoarders are behind the rising sugar prices and the government should take strict notice of it. Inflation is already on the rise and it is affecting the household budget of the common man. They also said that due to the unrestrained export of sugar, not only the prices are increasing, but also the fear of its shortage is increasing and in such a case the government will have to import sugar which is a loss to the country’s treasury and burden on national foreign exchange reserves.

Karachi (Muhammad Yasir)

Schneider Electric, the leader in digital transformation of energy management and automation, and Pakistan’s leading Centre for energy research and development Energy Research Centre (ERC) COMSATS University, signed a Letter of Intent (LoI) to optimize energy performance, reduce consumption, and train young energy specialists to accelerate sustainable energy transition under “Access to Energy Program” in Pakistan. At Schneider Electric we are leading the way with our sustainability initiatives, and as an Impact company, our purpose is to empower all to make the most of our energy and resources, bridging progress and sustainability for all. The Access to Energy Program seeks to ensure access to clean, affordable, reliable and sustainable energy solutions, to improve the lives and livelihoods of people and stimulate economic development through energy access. Under the partnership, ERC will identify and collaborate on initiatives that leverage on Schneider Electric’s industry-leading expertise and innovation in sustainability, decarbonization, and microgrid controller solutions and ERC’s proven capabilities in research, developing, deploying, operating and maintaining renewable energy generation systems. Schneider Electric will be ERC’s key technological partner for microgrid solutions under “Access to Energy Program”. Schneider Electric’s Country President for Pakistan, Humayun Akhlaq said, “We are excited to extend our collaboration with Energy Research Centre COMSATS University this LoI will move us forward in realizing our shared vision of a country that is decarbonized, digitized, and decentralized. Our technology and industry expertise will unlock new opportunities to accelerate the energy transition and contribute to Pakistan’s sustainability goals – and empower remote communities to help lead the energy transition. I am proud of this collaboration and excited to see a more sustainable future for all.” COMSATS University’s Additional Registrar, Dr. Rashid A. Khan, said, “We are so pleased to join hands with Schneider Electric, recognized as a leader for microgrid technology and sustainability to better respond to the country’s energy needs, under this partnership we will provide studies regarding baseload power solutions to the areas of the country with the greatest need. Our partnership is guided by the combined philosophy and belief in clean energy, innovation, and sustainability – these values are exemplified through our LoI with Schneider Electric.”

Pakistan (Muhammad Yasir)   Naheed Supermarket and Z Healthcare, a division of Z International Group, have entered into a strategic partnership to introduce Naheed Pharmacy as the exclusive partner to manage the pharmacies at the Z Healthcare centers across Pakistan.

Commenting on the occasion, Mr. Munsub Abrar, Director Naheed Supermarket said: “Our aim is to enhance access to quality pharmaceutical services and to improve the overall healthcare experience for everyone. Naheed Pharmacy, under the umbrella of Naheed Supermarket, will strive to uphold the highest standards of quality, reliability, and customer satisfaction.”

This partnership leverages Naheed’s expertise in retail operations and Z Healthcare’s commitment to providing exceptional healthcare services. By joining forces, Naheed Supermarket and Z Healthcare aim to create a seamless and integrated healthcare solution for customers.

“By operating pharmacies within Z Healthcare centers, the collaboration has a goal to streamline healthcare services and provide a holistic approach to the well-being of individuals and communities across Pakistan.” He further added.

The official signing ceremony between Mr. Munsub Abrar, Director Naheed Supermarket and Mr. Zeeshan Altaf Lohya, Founder & President, Z International Group, marks the beginning of a fruitful collaboration aimed to bridge the gap between the retail and healthcare industries while ensuring customer convenience and access to essential medications and professional pharmaceutical guidance; and was attended by Mr. Abraruddin, Founder Naheed Supermarket, Mr. Nasser Wajahat, Co-Founder & Secretary General, AMPAK-BDF, Mr. Salman Syed, Manager Alliances and Partnerships Naheed Supermarket, among others.

Pakistan (Muhammad Yasir)

TCL, Pakistan’s leading LED TV Brand, today unveiled its trio of groundbreaking television models. The latest C series was introduced at the electrifying TCL Immerse event, where esteemed media houses, tech enthusiasts, and lifestyle influencers witnessed the future of entertainment firsthand. The latest lineup of LED TVs showcases the pinnacle of cutting-edge technology, including the premium 4K Mini LED TV, TCL C845, a tv that redefines picture quality, the game-changer TCL C745 QLED TV designed to elevate your gaming experience, and the feature-packed yet affordable TCL C645 QLED TV, making luxury entertainment accessible to all.

Expanding Imaginations Through Innovative Display Technology – Introducing the Latest Generation of TCL Mini LED with the 2023 C Series

The C845 is the newest addition to TCL’s Mini LED TV line-up, with more local dimming zones at work providing infinite contrast dimensions, high efficiency, and wide luminous angle Mini LEDs to achieve the highest brightness levels to date of HDR 2000 nits available in 55’’ and 65’’ models and backed by AiPQ Processor 3.0, the TCL C845 delivers outstanding picture quality combined with unparalleled sound thanks to Dolby Vision IQ & Dolby Atmos.

Countless Colors and Endless Entertainment with All-New C745 & C645 QLED TVs

For gamers, TCL introduced its new TCL C745 available in 55” and 65” models which combines QLED with Full Array Local Dimming technology, 4K HDR and industry leading refresh rate of 144Hz VRR and a 240Hz Game Accelerator for smooth, sharp and colorful HDR picture quality.  The new TCL C645 is available in 43”, 50”, 55”, 65” and 75” models and is equipped with TCL QLED technology for outstanding color expression, certified with Dolby Vision and Dolby Atmos and packed with a 120 HZ Game Accelerator, making it an excellent value option for those who seek high-quality and interactive home entertainment experiences.

Commenting on the exciting launch, Ms. Sunny Yang, General Manager, TCL Pakistan, expressed her enthusiasm, stating, “We are thrilled to introduce TCL’s newest lineup of Mini LED and QLED TVs to the Pakistani market. Our aim is to cater to the ever-changing needs of our consumers and provide them with state-of-the-art technology, delivering a premium and exceptional entertainment experience.”

Majid Khan Niazi, Head of Marketing, TCL Pakistan, expressed his excitement about the new TV lineup, stating, “TCL is thrilled to introduce these exceptional television models to the Pakistani market. At TCL, we believe that everyone deserves access to premium entertainment experiences, and that is precisely what these TVs deliver.”

Igniting Passion in Sports; TCL Highlights New Sponsorships

TCL has long been a champion of sports, making it an integral part of its global strategy as it aims to strengthen its influence around the world. In the MEA Market, TCL unveiled its partnership with one of the most iconic football clubs in the world – Arsenal FC, as its Official Regional Consumer Electronics Partner.

In addition to this, TCL expanded its cricket portfolio in the region with partnerships with the Abu Dhabi Knight Riders, Peshawar Zalmi and Pakistan Cricket Team. Globally, TCL has set up a number of well-established partnerships with some of the world’s leading football teams, including the Spanish and Italian national teams and is an official partner of the most popular sport’s league in the US, the NFL.

Pakistan (Muhammad Yasir)

As technology advances, so does the way we use and interact with our applications. One of the biggest advances in recent years has been the rise of cloud-based mobility solutions. These solutions enable businesses to access and use mapping data more efficiently and cost-effectively. Cloud-based mobility solutions can also reduce costs while facilitating mobility complexity. For example, companies are creating mobile order solutions that use mapping apps to let their B2B clients sell directly to end customers and also provide access to information when they are not connected to the internet. In addition, cloud-based mobility solutions are also used in various other industries, such as transportation and logistics, real estate, and emergency services. Delivery companies have been using digital mapping apps and hyper-localized data to optimize their routes while optimizing fuel consumption. Whereas, real estate agents use mapping to give virtual tours to potential buyers. TPL Maps, a company dedicated to developing in-house digital mapping solutions that offer comprehensive local routes on par with international players, is making headlines with its recent launch. Combining various data sources, such as traffic patterns, demographics, and satellite imagery, into a single platform is another benefit of cloud-based mobility solutions. That makes it possible to get a complete picture of a place and spot trends and patterns that might not have been visible otherwise, it simplifies the process of accessing and analyzing data. By providing location data for over 380 cities in Pakistan covering more than 95% of the country, TPL Maps can help businesses in the FSI industry target their marketing efforts more effectively and identify new business opportunities. In addition, TPL Maps has a vast route system of more than 850,000+ km of roads and 140,000+ boundaries, which can help logistics companies improve delivery times, reduce fuel cost and increase customer satisfaction. The data collection includes over 400,000 cartographic data points, which can be used in various applications, from detailed and accurate maps for navigation and planning to advanced research and analysis. “TPL Maps has been an incredible partner in helping us streamline our delivery operations,” said Ammar Azhar, CTO and CFO of KFC Pakistan. “TPL’s mapping solutions have significantly improved our efficiency, enabling us to deliver our finger-lickin’ good with ease. Apart from an efficient product, TPL’s team is always available to provide support and act as business partners. We highly recommend TPL Maps for any business looking to optimize their logistics and enhance customer satisfaction.” Location data is so complex in Pakistan that you find different aspects of things on every corner of the street or village. TPL Maps’ location data provides a wealth of information that can be used to better understand the geographic landscape and make informed decisions. “Our goal is to save people the precious time they would typically spend at local grocery stores,” said Kassim Shroff, CEO and co-founder of Krave Mart. “Achieving this requires not only providing an exceptional experience but also implementing top-notch systems. Partnering with TPL Maps will undoubtedly enhance the value we offer through our service. We recognize the immense potential and opportunity in this market, and we are fully committed to executing our plans meticulously and delivering on our promises.” With the current FOREX crunch and state bank restrictions, businesses in the country need to look for reliable local alternatives and it’s high time the economy and its solutions grow from within before the system collapses. According to Sarwar Ali Khan, CEO of TPL Maps, Given the volatility in Pakistan’s economy, it was inevitable that the State Bank of Pakistan would enforce restrictions to limit or control the number of dollars being remitted abroad. Many local businesses using location APIs from international companies have been burdened with exchange limits as a result of these restrictions, impacting business operations and profitability. TPL Maps, on the other hand, provides a hyper-localized substitute with technology that is developed in-house and fully customizable giving clients more flexibility. Also, as we are present for on-ground facilitations which gives us an advantage over foreign competitors. In the current economic situation, locally manufactured technology solutions for services like delivery, ride-hailing, and digital mapping services will uplift Pakistan’s economy, businesses, and the general public. Footnote: TPL Maps, a fast-growing, market-leading technology start-up in Pakistan, is on a mission to redefine the value of location for enterprise and revolutionize mobility for consumers.