Sunday, December 14, 2025
Home Blog Page 638

SECP registers 14,802 new Companies in first four months of FY 2025-26

By
Kamran Muraad
-
0
ISLAMABAD, Nov 12 (APP):The Securities and Exchange Commission of Pakistan (SECP) registered 14,802 new companies in the first four months of the fiscal year 2025-26, reflecting growing confidence in the country’s corporate sector.
Of these incorporations , 99.9% were processed online through eZfile, bringing the total number of registered companies in Pakistan to 272,918.
The total paid-up capital for the period stood at Rs. 20.59 billion.
In terms of company structure, private limited companies accounted for 59% of new registrations, followed by single-member companies at 37%.
The remaining 4% comprised public unlisted companies, not-for-profit organizations, trade organizations, and limited liability partnerships.
Additionally, 10 foreign companies established a place of business in Pakistan during this period.
These companies were registered online through SECP’s digital platform, enabling entrepreneurs from across the country to incorporate their businesses without the need to physically visit SECP offices.
Alongside major urban centers such as Lahore, Islamabad, and Karachi, a significant number of registrations—nearly 30% of the total—originated from approximately 250 other cities and towns across Pakistan.
These include Layyah, Burewala, Bhakkar, Pakpattan, Hasilpur, Chaman, Gwadar, Zhob, Turbat, Bannu, Kohat, Tank, Swat, Manshera, Thatta, Larkana, Dadu, Rohri, Hunza, and Gilgit, reflecting the growing outreach of SECP’s digital services.
Province-wise data shows that 7,476 companies were registered in Punjab, followed by the Islamabad Capital Territory (3,230), Sindh (2,197), Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (1,320), Gilgit-Baltistan (337), and Balochistan (242).
The Information Technology and e-commerce sectors led with 2,999 new incorporations, followed by trading (1,954), services (1,807), and real estate development and construction (1,393).
Other active sectors included tourism and transport (1,042), education (787), food and beverages (751), mining and quarrying (346), marketing and advertisement (342), textile (327), pharmaceuticals (284), agricultural farming (242), healthcare (242), cosmetics and toiletries (229), engineering (236), fuel and energy (188), chemical (184), and auto and allied (153).
An additional 1,296 companies were registered across various other sectors, including not-for-profit associations, cable and electric goods, communications, power generation, logging, sports, arts and culture, steel, broadcasting and telecasting, paper and board, insurance, and NBFCs.
Foreign investment also showed positive momentum, with 332 newly registered companies receiving capital from international investors across diverse jurisdictions, including Afghanistan, Australia, Bangladesh, Canada, China, Comoros, Denmark, France, Germany, Hong Kong, Japan, Indonesia, Iran, Malaysia, Mauritius, Nigeria, the Netherlands, Norway, Portugal, Philippines, South Africa, South Korea, Sweden, Tajikistan, Thailand, the UK, the United States, and Vietnam.
As part of its efforts to enhance market access and promote financial inclusion, the SECP issued a total of 94 licenses during the period across various regulatory domains.
These included 8 licenses in the Capital Market sector, 15 licenses to Non-Banking Financial Companies (NBFCs), and 25 licenses to entities operating as Securities Market / Futures Brokers / Consultants to the Issue / Share Registrars and Ballotters / Underwriters / BTI and DST—including 5 new licenses and 20 renewals.
Furthermore, the Commission issued 4 licenses to Insurance Surveyors (comprising 2 new and 2 renewed licenses) and 42 licenses to Not-for-Profit Associations.
The SECP is launching a comprehensive awareness drive to promote the advantages of incorporation within the business community.
These advantages include limited liability, separate legal entity status, enhanced credibility, scalability, perpetual succession, structured governance, tax efficiency, easier access to finance, and stronger brand protection.
The SECP remains committed to strengthening its digital infrastructure and streamlining regulatory processes to promote entrepreneurship, attract investment, and support sustainable economic development.

CAPES inks MoU with Khawaja Group of Industries to explore Asia-Pacific markets

By
Kamran Muraad
-
0
ISLAMABAD, Nov 12 (APP):The Consortium for Asia-Pacific & Eurasian Studies (CAPES) and Khawaja Group of Industries (KGI) have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) aimed at enhancing Pakistan’s industrial linkages and commercial outreach across the Asia-Pacific region.
Khawaja Group of Industries, one of Pakistan’s oldest industrial conglomerates with a rich legacy of international engagement, has historically maintained strong business relations across Asia-Pacific and was once recognized as the largest seller of ferroalloys in the region. As part of its diversification strategy, KGI now seeks to expand into the seafood sector and position itself as one of Pakistan’s leading shrimp producers and exporters, said a press release issued on Wednesday.
Under the MoU, CAPES will conduct comprehensive research on Asia-Pacific market trends, assess export opportunities, and provide policy and operational insights to guide KGI’s entry into the regional seafood value chain. The study will analyze demand patterns, pricing structures, regulatory landscapes, and potential partnership models within the region.
KGI also aims to import skilled human resources, modern aquaculture technologies, and technical expertise from Asia-Pacific countries to develop state-of-the-art shrimp farming operations in Pakistan. CAPES will facilitate this process by connecting KGI with relevant experts, institutions, and resource persons, while mapping regional best practices in aquaculture and sustainable seafood production.
Representatives from both organizations emphasized that this collaboration reflects a shared vision of bridging academia, research, and industry, and of promoting evidence-based strategies for industrial innovation, blue-economy growth, and sustainable trade integration.
The CAPES–KGI partnership is expected to play a pivotal role in strengthening Pakistan’s presence in the Asia-Pacific seafood market and fostering long-term regional cooperation through research-driven industrial development.

PCRWR actively monitoring mineral waters in district

By
Kamran Muraad
-
0
FAISALABAD, Nov 12 (APP):The Water Quality Laboratory of Pakistan Council of Research Water Resources (PCRWR) is actively monitoring the mineral water campaign in the district.
According to lab sources here Wednesday, the results of samples taken from various factories, medical stores and general stores will be uploaded on the department’s website and the same will also be sent to the Punjab Food Authority.
The lab is located on Jaranwala Road, near the office of Election Commission and citizens can contact for water analysis.

FCCI condemns terror attack at Cadet College Wana, near Islamabad Court

By
Kamran Muraad
-
0
FAISALABAD, Nov 12 (APP):Faisalabad Chamber of Commerce & Industry (FCCI) President Farooq Yousuf Sheikh has strongly condemned the heinous terror attacks at Cadet College Wana and the suicide bombing near District Courts Islamabad.
In a statement here on Wednesday, the FCCI President expressed deep sorrow and outrage over the loss of innocent lives and injuries caused by these cowardly attacks.
The Chamber extended its heartfelt condolences to the families of the victims and wished a speedy recovery to those injured.
The FCCI President reiterated the Chamber’s commitment to supporting the government’s efforts to ensure peace and stability in the country. He also emphasized the need for collective action against terrorism and extremism, which pose a significant threat to Pakistan’s economic growth and development.

PM hails passage of 27th Constitutional Amendment Bill; vows to defeat terrorism, strengthen federation

By
Najam ul Hassan
-
0

ISLAMABAD, Nov 12 (APP): Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Wednesday felicitated the nation and the members of the National Assembly on the passage of the 27th Constitutional Amendment Bill with a two-thirds majority, terming it a historic step towards strengthening democracy and national unity.

Speaking on the floor of the National Assembly, the prime minister thanked all political parties for demonstrating national integrity and consensus on the amendment, saying that the dream of establishing constitutional courts had been fulfilled after 19 years.

He expressed gratitude to President Asif Ali Zardari, President Pakistan Muslim League-N Muhammad Nawaz Sharif, Chairman Pakistan Peoples Party Bilawal Bhutto Zardari, Dr Khalid Maqbool Siddiqui, Chaudhry Salik Hussain, Abdul Aleem Khan, Khalid Magsi, Aimal Wali Khan, Deputy Prime Minister Ishaq Dar, the law minister, and all members of the House and the relevant parliamentary committees for their support in the passage of the bill.

Shehbaz Sharif said the establishment of the constitutional court was the peak of democracy, adding that the Chief Justice of Pakistan would continue to lead the Judicial Commission of Pakistan, the Supreme Judicial Council, and the Law and Justice Commission. He said the government would continue to seek guidance from the top judiciary in upholding the Constitution and the rule of law.

Paying tribute to late Senator Irfan Siddiqui, the prime minister said his services to the party, academia, and national discourse would always be remembered. “He was among the most loyal companions of Mian Nawaz Sharif, and his academic insight will remain a beacon of light for future generations,” he added.

He prayed for the grant of eternal peace to late Irfan Siddiqui and for strength and courage to his family members to bear the loss with patience.

Referring to the recent terror attacks, the prime minister strongly condemned the attack on Cadet College Wana, likening it to the tragic Army Public School incident. He lauded the Pakistan Armed Forces for safely rescuing all students and eliminating the terrorists involved.

He also condemned the terror attack in Islamabad targeting the Judicial Complex, which claimed 12 precious lives including lawyers, and prayed for the eternal peace of the martyrs and the speedy recovery of the injured.

The prime minister said it was evident that elements from India and Afghanistan were involved in these terrorist incidents. “We have presented undeniable proof of Indian involvement in the Jaffar Express attack before the world, and no one challenged those facts,” he said, adding that the Khawarij terrorists would receive a befitting response from Pakistan’s security forces.

Shehbaz Sharif said that peace talks had been held in Doha and Istanbul with the Afghan interim government with the sole condition that it curb the BLA and other terrorist groups using Afghan soil against Pakistan. “We desire peace and stability in the region and expect Afghanistan to make sincere commitments to support Pakistan’s peace efforts,” he emphasized.

The prime minister also highlighted the government’s recent diplomatic and defence successes, saying Pakistan’s victory in the “Marka-e-Haq” war against India in February and the government’s bold decisions had enhanced the country’s image globally.

He said the nation hailed the conferring of the title of Field Marshal on Chief of Army Staff General Syed Asim Munir following that victory, saying that the post of Field Marshal was now being made part of the Constitution alongside other service chiefs, which they fully deserve.

Reiterating his commitment to strengthening the federation, the prime minister said he stood by all measures that empowered the federation and provinces, and opposed anything that weakened national unity.

He said the security forces were at the forefront of the war against terrorism, sacrificing their lives for the peace and security of the nation.

On the issues related to the 18th Amendment and the NFC Award, the prime minister said he would hold consultations with the PPP and other political parties to build consensus for addressing these critical national matters.

“We have to move forward together for the development and prosperity of Pakistan,” the prime minister said.

IHC reserves verdict in plea challenging CII opinion against Engr. Muhammad Ali

By
Kamran Muraad
-
0
ISLAMABAD, Nov 12 (APP):The Islamabad High Court (IHC) on Wednesday reserved its decision on the petition seeking to suspend the opinion of the Council of Islamic Ideology (CII) in the Engineer Muhammad Ali Mirza case.
Justice Mohsin Akhtar Kayani heard the case. During the hearing, an incomplete response was submitted to the court by the Council of Islamic Ideology, on which the court directed the council to submit a complete response and satisfy the court regarding its jurisdiction.
Justice Kayani inquired whether the Council of Islamic Ideology is an advisory body? Who approached you to give an opinion? The court further observed that if we do something, a new trend will start in the country, the parliament has its own power and it is an independent institution.
The court also asked whether the council can give its opinion to anyone other than the legislature, the president or the governor of the province? The council officials said that the appointment of the chairman of the council has not been made yet, so more time should be given to submit the reply.
Justice Mohsin Akhtar Kayani inquired whether the recommendation for a new appointment has been sent? To which the council officials said that the recommendation has been sent and the appointment of the chairman is expected soon. The court adjourned the hearing till December 4.

FDA DG directs to issue notices to default members of Sports Complex

By
Kamran Muraad
-
0
FAISALABAD, Nov 12 (APP): Faisalabad Development Authority (FDA) Director General Muhammad Asif Chaudhry has issued strict directives to immediately issue notices to members of the FDA City Sports Complex who are in default of their dues and to ensure monthly recovery.
He ordered that action be taken to cancel the membership of any member who fails to pay their outstanding arrears within two months. He issued these instructions during a meeting organized to review the administrative and financial affairs of the FDA City Sports Complex. Director IT Yasir Ijaz Chatta, Assistant Director Finance Muhammad Bilal, Sports Complex Manager Rizwana Kamal, Assistant Manager Tariq Nazir, and other relevant officials were also present in the meeting.
The DG FDA emphatically stated that there would be “no compromise on recovery”, as substantial funds are essential to run the administrative affairs of the Sports Complex. He directed that the building, machinery, and other installations of the complex be fully maintained, stressing that there should be no delay in repairing buildings or machinery that require maintenance.
The DG instructed the staff to fully look after administrative facilities for members and to keep sports arrangements fully functional. He added that there should be no negligence in maintaining security, cleanliness, and a dignified/pleasant atmosphere.
Reviewing the financial income and expenditure, he directed that financial discipline be kept transparent and that digital technology be utilized in the financial and administrative systems of the Sports Complex.

IRSA releases 111,300 cusecs water

By
Kamran Muraad
-
0
ISLAMABAD, Nov 12 (APP):Indus River System Authority (IRSA) on Wednesday released 111,300 cusecs of water from various rim stations with inflow of 52,000 cusecs.
According to the data released by IRSA, the water level in the River Indus at Tarbela Dam stood at 1532.54 feet which was 130.54 feet higher than the dead level of 1402.00 feet. Water inflow and outflow in the dam were recorded as 27,400 cusecs and 70,000 cusecs, respectively.
The water level in the Jhelum River at Mangla Dam was 1227.05 feet, which was 177.05 feet higher than its dead level of 1,050 feet. The inflow and outflow of water was recorded as 5,300 cusecs and 22,000 cusecs respectively.
The release of water at Kalabagh, Taunsa, Guddu and Sukkur was recorded as 70,600, 44,700, 36,600, and 8,000 cusecs, respectively. Similarly, from River Kabul, a total of 8,800 cusecs of water was released at Nowshera, and 5,000 cusecs were released from River Chenab at Marala.

First international Capital market Conference concludes with a focus on deepening Capital market cooperation

By
Kamran Muraad
-
0
ISLAMABAD, Nov 12 (APP):The inaugural International Capital Market Conference & Expo 2025 concluded on a high note on Wednesday, with participants renewing their commitment to advance capital market cooperation, strengthen market linkages, and promote knowledge exchange among the represented jurisdictions.
Hosted by the Securities and Exchange Commission of Pakistan in collaboration with the Capital Market Infrastructure Institutions, the two-day event brought together regulators, policymakers, academicians, and market practitioners from Azerbaijan, Bangladesh, China, Iran, and the United States, alongside domestic stakeholders, said a release issued here.
The forum served as a vibrant platform for dialogue on deepening capital markets, regional integration, digitization, commodities markets, and pension reforms, reinforcing the vision for a more connected and resilient financial ecosystem.
The conference featured a Gong Ceremony at the Pakistan Stock Exchange (PSX), symbolizing the collaboration and connectivity among the participating countries.
Distinguished foreign delegates and domestic stakeholders commended the initiative, emphasizing that such platforms strengthen cross-border engagement and promote regional camaraderie.
A key highlight was a high-level panel discussion on the role of Islamic finance in capital market development.
The panelists emphasized the importance of legislative reforms, capacity building, and harmonized Shariah screening frameworks, while underscoring the need to enhance retail investor participation and promote awareness of ethical investment options.
The proceedings also included a detailed presentation on Real Estate Investment Trusts, which highlighted the sector’s growth trajectory in Pakistan, its potential for deepening the country’s investment landscape, and the SECP’s role in developing a robust and enabling regulatory framework.
The day concluded with a keynote address by Ayatollah Dr Gholamreza Mesbahi Moghaddam, Chair of the Shariah Committee of Iran, who shared valuable insights on adopting Islamic finance and fostering regional collaboration.
In his concluding address, the CEO of PSX thanked the SECP for organizing the conference and stated that such events have the potential to pave the way for further collaboration while promoting cross-border and knowledge exchange.

University of Central Punjab Wins All Pakistan Inter-University Judo Championship at SAU

By
Kamran Muraad
-
0
HYDERABAD, Nov 12 (APP):The University of Central Punjab, Lahore emerged victorious in the final of the All Pakistan Inter-University Judo (Men) Championship 2025-26, held at Sindh Agriculture University (SAU), Tandojam.
The final witnessed a tough competition, with the University of Lahore securing second place and Islamia University Bahawalpur finishing third. The winners and runner-up teams were awarded trophies and medals.
The SAU spokesperson told that the University of Central Punjab claimed the title with an impressive haul of 5  gold, 2 silver and 1 bronze medal.  After tough competition, Muhammad Usman won the gold medal in the 50 kg category, Hasnain secured gold in the 55 kg category, Huzaifa clinched gold in the 66 kg category, while Shams bagged gold medals in both the 100-plus and open categories. Meanwhile, Moaz and Hamza earned silver medals in their respective events.
The second position was claimed by University of Punjab, which won 3 gold, 2 silver and 1 bronze medal, while Islamia University Bahawalpur took third place with 2 gold, 1 silver and 3 bronze medals.
The Vice Chancellor Engr. Prof. Dr. Altaf Ali Siyal praised the Higher Education Commission (HEC) for providing universities across Pakistan with ample opportunities to promote sports, enabling students to showcase their talents and earn recognition at the national level.
Director of Sports Anwar Hussain Khanzada also extended gratitude to HEC, the Vice Chancellor and participating university officials for their support in organizing the championship.
1...637638639...30,925Page 638 of 30,925

ABOUT US

Serving the nation since 1947 by providing an accurate, objective, uninterrupted flow of news to the people, the national news service is pursuing a comprehensive strategy to transform the existing news operations into a forward-looking service – APP Digital for its diverse subscriber-base and the public.

Contact us: news@app.com.pk

FOLLOW US

Copyright © Associated Press of Pakistan