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Pakistan’s Active Taxpayer Count Reaches Record 7.27 Million

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The Federal Board of Revenue (FBR) has reported a significant milestone, revealing that the number of active taxpayers in Pakistan has reached an all-time high of 7.27 million. This growth highlights an increased compliance rate and expanding tax base, reflecting the government’s efforts to encourage documentation and improve tax culture.

According to officials, this jump in filer numbers indicates both enhanced public awareness and the success of recent policy initiatives. Compared to previous years, the increase is notable and demonstrates greater participation from individuals and businesses across various sectors.

Authorities remain optimistic that this upward trend will continue, which would help strengthen national revenue and reduce reliance on external borrowing. They emphasized the importance of consistent filing and warned that those failing to comply risk being excluded from the Active Taxpayers List (ATL), losing various benefits associated with the status.

Pakistan’s Active Taxpayers List has reached a record 7.27 million, reflecting increased tax compliance and broader documentation of the economy. The rise is attributed to policy reforms and improved public awareness. Authorities urge continued participation to ensure sustainable national revenue growth.

FBR, tax compliance, active taxpayers list

PM Shehbaz Urges Greater Private Investment in Pakistan’s Shipping Industry

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Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has emphasized the urgent need to attract more private investment into Pakistan’s shipping sector. While chairing a high-level meeting focused on maritime development, he highlighted that a stronger shipping industry is essential for economic growth, trade efficiency, and reduced reliance on foreign vessels for cargo transport.

The Prime Minister directed relevant authorities to create a supportive policy environment that encourages private sector participation. He also stressed the modernization of ports, the acquisition of advanced cargo ships, and the introduction of digital tracking systems to enhance logistics. Moreover, he encouraged collaboration with international shipping companies and port operators.

The goal, he stated, is to make Pakistan a competitive player in regional maritime trade by building self-sufficiency and boosting employment. A roadmap will soon be developed to facilitate investment-friendly reforms in the maritime industry.

PM Shehbaz Sharif has called for increased private sector investment in Pakistan’s shipping industry, aiming to strengthen maritime trade and reduce reliance on foreign cargo services. He stressed policy reforms, port modernization, and international cooperation to make Pakistan a competitive maritime hub.

shipping sector, maritime investment, Pakistan economy

Bangladesh Clinches T20I Series as Mahedi Hasan Breaks Harbhajan Singh’s Record

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Bangladesh defeated Sri Lanka in a thrilling T20I series finale, securing a 2-1 victory. The highlight was Mahedi Hasan’s historic performance, where he surpassed Harbhajan Singh’s record for the most T20I wickets by a spinner in powerplays. His economical and impactful spell helped Bangladesh dominate the decisive match.

Mahedi Hasan set a new T20I record for spinners in powerplays, overtaking Harbhajan Singh, as Bangladesh triumphed over Sri Lanka to win the T20I series 2-1. His match-winning spell was pivotal in defending a modest total and sealing the series in a tense showdown.

Mahedi Hasan record, Bangladesh vs Sri Lanka T20I, T20I series win

Emma Watson Faces 6-Month Driving Ban After Traffic Violations in the UK

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Actress Emma Watson, best known for her role in the “Harry Potter” series, has been handed a six-month driving ban in the UK. The ban comes after she accrued 12 penalty points on her license due to multiple speeding offenses and failing to provide driver details. The court also imposed a fine of over £800 on Watson, who did not attend the hearing in person. The suspension and fine were decided under existing laws governing repeated traffic violations.

Emma Watson has been banned from driving for six months in the UK after accumulating 12 penalty points on her license. The penalty follows several speeding offenses and failing to identify the driver when required, resulting in an £800+ fine.

Emma Watson, UK driving ban, speeding offenses

Fire Breaks Out at Tomorrowland Festival Main Stage in Belgium

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A fire erupted on the main stage of the renowned Tomorrowland music festival in Boom, Belgium, just hours before the event was set to begin. Thick black smoke filled the sky as firefighters rushed to the scene and brought the flames under control. Thankfully, no injuries were reported, and organizers confirmed that safety protocols were swiftly implemented.

The cause of the fire is under investigation, and it remains unclear how much damage was done to the stage infrastructure. Despite the setback, officials are working to ensure that the festival can proceed as planned, with contingency plans now being considered.

A fire broke out on the main stage of Belgium’s Tomorrowland festival just before opening day, prompting an emergency response. No injuries were reported. Authorities are investigating the cause while organizers work on recovery plans to minimize disruption and ensure the festival continues as scheduled.

Tomorrowland fire, Belgium festival incident, Music festival safety

Severe Weather Disrupts Flight Operations at Islamabad Airport

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Islamabad International Airport experienced major flight disruptions due to intense rainfall and thunderstorms. Multiple flights were delayed or canceled, especially those bound for Skardu and Karachi. Authorities have activated emergency protocols as more rain is expected in the coming 24–48 hours, urging passengers to stay updated on flight schedules.

Heavy rain and thunderstorms caused widespread disruption at Islamabad Airport, leading to flight cancellations and delays. Authorities are on high alert with emergency services in place, anticipating further weather challenges in the coming days. Passengers are advised to remain in contact with their respective airlines.

flight disruption, severe weather, Islamabad airport

IMF Pressures Pakistan to Create New Funding Strategy for Remittance Scheme

The International Monetary Fund (IMF) has urged Pakistan’s Ministry of Finance and the State Bank of Pakistan (SBP) to develop a viable funding plan for the Pakistan Remittances Initiative (PRI). This scheme incentivizes banks and exchange companies to route remittances through formal channels. However, concerns have grown due to escalating unpaid liabilities tied to the scheme. Despite spending over Rs. 100 billion last year, no allocation has been made in the current budget. The IMF emphasized that continued financing through indirect methods like SBP profits is unsustainable. A transparent and fiscally responsible strategy is now demanded to ensure the program’s future viability.

Pakistan must create a fiscally responsible plan for its remittance reward scheme after costs exceeded Rs. 100 billion with no budget allocated this year. The IMF urged the government and SBP to collaborate on a sustainable solution.
remittance policy, IMF recommendations, Pakistan economy

Nationwide Strike to Proceed as Scheduled, Confirms KCCI

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The Karachi Chamber of Commerce and Industry (KCCI) has clarified that the country-wide strike planned for July 18 will go ahead as announced. This decision follows widespread confusion regarding its cancellation. KCCI emphasized the protest is against increasing electricity costs and government-imposed taxes on businesses.

The nationwide strike against soaring electricity prices and taxation will take place on July 18 as originally planned, confirmed KCCI. The protest aims to pressure the government for relief to the business community. KCCI dismissed rumors of cancellation and reaffirmed their commitment to the demonstration.
nationwide strike, electricity price protest, KCCI July 18 demonstration

BankIslami and ZLK Islamic Financial Services Partner to Boost Riba-Free Banking and Investments

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BankIslami has entered into a strategic partnership with ZLK Islamic Financial Services to strengthen and expand the promotion of riba-free banking and investment solutions in Pakistan. This collaboration aims to educate the public about Shariah-compliant financial products and create a wider ecosystem for ethical and interest-free financial growth. Both organizations will work together on public awareness campaigns, product development, and expanding customer access to Islamic financial services, ultimately encouraging a shift away from conventional, interest-based banking models.

BankIslami and ZLK Islamic Financial Services have partnered to advance riba-free banking and ethical investment practices in Pakistan. The collaboration will focus on promoting Shariah-compliant financial education, enhancing customer access, and fostering a robust Islamic finance ecosystem.
riba-free banking, Islamic finance Pakistan, Shariah-compliant investment

Punjab District Declares Public Holiday Due to Torrential Rainfall

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Due to continuous and intense rainfall, authorities in a Punjab district have announced a public holiday for July 17, 2025. All government offices and educational institutions will remain closed for safety reasons. Emergency services will stay active to handle any weather-related incidents or potential flooding in the area.

A public holiday has been declared in a Punjab district following persistent heavy rain. Schools and government offices will remain shut on July 17 to ensure public safety and allow authorities to manage any weather-related emergencies. Essential services will continue to operate throughout the day.

heavy rainfall, public safety measures, Punjab weather update