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Medicine prices to skyrocket in Pakistan for This reason

Medicine prices in Pakistan are set to increase significantly due to a proposed 18% sales tax recommended by the IMF. Experts caution that this tax will make medicines unaffordable for many, giving pharmaceutical companies free rein to set prices. This recommendation comes amid the IMF's policy-level talks with Pakistan on a bailout package.

KP govt moves SC for live telecast of NAB amendments case

The Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP) government has submitted a petition to the Supreme Court, requesting live telecast of the National Accountability Bureau (NAB) Ordinance 1999 amendment case, highlighting the absence of live-streaming as discriminatory. This follows the top court's decision to permit video-link participation in the case, a move that wasn't broadcasted live on the Supreme Court's YouTube channel. The federal government has also filed a review plea in the same case, urging the nullification of the top court's decision.

Pakistan’s likely squad for T20 World Cup 2024

The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has finalized a 15-member squad, led by skipper Babar Azam, for the T20 World Cup 2024. The squad includes five fast bowlers, four all-rounders, three wicket-keepers, two batsmen, and a spinner. Pacer Haris Rauf has been included, with Hasan Ali, Salman Ali Agha, and Irfan Khan as reserves. The official squad announcement will follow the T20I series against England on May 22. Pakistan is in Group A alongside India, Ireland, Canada, and the USA.

Budget 2024: Power tariff likely to reduce for industrial sector

The 2024 budget may see a reduction in power tariffs for the industrial sector, providing relief to industries amid considerations for tariff rationalization and proposals to reduce costs for export-oriented industries. This move is expected to amount to around Rs 100 billion in benefits for the export sector. The budget is expected to be presented on June 7, with an estimated total expenditure of Rs 16,700 billion.

WhatsApp tests customisable colour themes for chat bubbles

WhatsApp is testing customizable color themes for chat bubbles in its iOS beta version. This new feature will allow users to customize the main color palette of the app and chat bubble colors. The update aims to maintain necessary color accessibility by restricting the color choices to ensure readability. The release date for these features is yet to be confirmed.

IMF ‘asks’ Pakistan for privatisation of national entities

The IMF mission in Pakistan expressed concerns over government-owned entities' increasing losses, requesting a fresh report. The Pakistani authorities assured submission of the report within two days. The IMF reportedly urged Pakistan to privatize government-owned enterprises as part of addressing the finance shortage, amid ongoing talks between the two. Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif announced plans to privatize all state-owned enterprises.

Hajj 2024: 2160 Pakistani pilgrims reach Saudi Arabia for spiritual journey

2,160 Pakistani pilgrims arrived at Prince Mohammad Bin Abdulaziz International Airport in Madina for the Hajj. They were welcomed by officials and will spend time in Madinah before moving to Makkah to perform Hajj rites. The pre-Hajj flight operation will continue until May 23. This marks the start of the Hajj season.

IMF technical experts ‘reach’ Pakistan for budgetary, loan talks

IMF technical experts have arrived in Pakistan to discuss a new loan program and assist with budget preparations for the FY2024-25 budget. The team will stay for over 10 days and will work with the finance ministry to finalize important budgetary targets, including loan repayments, government expenditures, and tax collection targets.

PM Shehbaz calls for urgent steps to make exports more competitive

PM Shehbaz Sharif called for urgent measures to enhance export competitiveness, focusing on the facilitation of the private sector and promoting non-traditional goods. He emphasized scrutiny of trade and investment officers, fortnightly reviews of export sectors, and ongoing trade agreements and legislation for industrial development. The meeting also discussed the Free Trade Agreement with Gulf states and other trade-related updates.

PCB to install floodlights at Quetta stadium for PSL matches

PCB Chairman Naqvi announced plans to install floodlights at Nawab Akbar Bugti cricket stadium in Quetta within three months to enhance cricket in Balochistan. He confirmed that PCB will fulfill its promise by September, making the stadium suitable for PSL matches. Chief Minister Bugti appreciated the move, citing its potential to boost sports in the province.