Initiate Magazine (2025)

11/09/2025

Remembering Quaid-e-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah, The architect of our nation and the torchbearer of unity, faith & discipline.
His vision lives on, it’s on us to carry it forward. 💚

10/09/2025

Yamaha Motor Pakistan (Private) Limited has officially announced that it will discontinue motorcycle manufacturing in the country, marking the end of its local production operations. The decision comes as part of a strategic change in the company’s business policy.

In a formal notification issued Tuesday, Yamaha extended its gratitude to loyal customers and enthusiasts who supported the brand over the years.

“Due to a change in our business policy, we would like to inform you that we will discontinue manufacturing of motorcycles. We sincerely appreciate your long-standing support and loyalty,” the company stated.

🔧 Aftersales Support to Continue

Despite halting production, Yamaha reassured customers that aftersales services will remain unaffected. The company confirmed that:

Spare parts will be available through Yamaha Motor Pakistan-authorized dealers, with adequate stocks to meet future demand.

Warranty services and customer support will continue in line with existing policies.

The company emphasized its commitment to ensuring that customers’ motorcycle ownership experience remains fully supported.

“We will continue to do our utmost to support your motorcycle experience, and we are committed to serving you sincerely until the very end,” Yamaha added.

📉 End of an Era

Yamaha’s exit from local motorcycle production reflects shifting dynamics in Pakistan’s two-wheeler industry, where rising costs, changing consumer preferences, and market competition have reshaped the sector. While production ceases, Yamaha’s brand presence and service network are expected to remain active in the country.

10/09/2025

Techroid.com has quickly positioned itself as one of Pakistan’s most trusted Apple resellers, offering the lowest iPhone prices nationwide through its online platform and physical stores. Customers can now purchase verified Apple devices with nationwide delivery and the added convenience of local warranty claims, removing the hassle of dealing with international service providers.

🛡️ Shield+ for Extra Peace of Mind

Techroid.com has also launched its Shield+ program, designed to give Apple users added protection. The package includes:

2-year extended warranty

One-time accidental replacement for both front and back damage

This makes iPhone ownership worry-free, especially for customers who value durability and long-term support.

🚀 A Surprise That Could Redefine Apple Shopping in Pakistan

While competitive prices and warranties already give Techroid.com an edge, something bigger is brewing behind the scenes.

Insiders suggest a first-of-its-kind Apple retail experience in Pakistan may soon be unveiled. If true, this could bring customers closer than ever to a true Apple Store environment — allowing them to test-drive iPhones, iPads, MacBooks, and Apple Watches before buying, instead of just looking at dummy displays.

Such a move would set a new benchmark in tech retail across Pakistan.

📦 Direct Imports & Complete Apple Lineup

Looking ahead, Techroid.com plans to expand by directly importing Apple’s latest releases to Pakistan. From iPhones and MacBooks to AirPods, chargers, and accessories, the company is building a one-stop shop for Apple enthusiasts.

With verified Apple products, customer-friendly warranties, and an upcoming immersive retail experience, Techroid.com is positioning itself as the future of Apple retail in Pakistan.

10/09/2025

The Competition Commission of Pakistan (CCP) has given its green light to the acquisition of Heavy Electrical Complex (HEC) by DW Pakistan (Pvt) Ltd, marking a significant development in the country’s energy and industrial sector. The acquisition will take place through a share purchase agreement with the current owner, IMS Engineering (Pvt) Ltd.

🔑 Transaction Details

Acquirer (DW Pakistan): An investment-focused firm with diversified interests but no current operations in manufacturing, engineering, or energy.

Target (HEC): Specializes in the manufacturing and repair of large-capacity power transformers, a critical component of Pakistan’s power transmission and distribution systems.

Seller (IMS Engineering): Provides engineering, procurement, and construction (EPC) as well as commissioning services.

📊 Competition Analysis

The CCP identified the relevant product market as power transformers. Following a detailed competition assessment, the transaction was classified as a conglomerate merger, meaning it does not directly remove or restrict competition in the sector.

The commission concluded that the acquisition will not create or strengthen a dominant position in the transformer market, ensuring that industry competition remains intact.

⚡ Strategic Significance

The approval paves the way for fresh investment in Pakistan’s power equipment manufacturing sector, an area vital for upgrading and stabilizing the country’s strained electricity transmission network. Experts note that with new ownership, HEC could benefit from modernization, improved efficiency, and stronger financial backing, supporting Pakistan’s broader energy infrastructure goals.

10/09/2025

The Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) has issued an official statement in response to media reports regarding the alleged leak of subscriber data online.

PTA clarified that it does not hold, manage, or control subscriber data. Instead, such sensitive information is maintained exclusively by licensed telecom operators under strict regulatory frameworks.

🔍 Initial Findings

An initial review by PTA revealed that the leaked datasets appear to include family details, travel histories, vehicle registration information, and CNIC copies. These attributes suggest that the data was compiled from multiple external sources and not directly from telecom operators’ systems.

Importantly, PTA confirmed that its regular security audits of the licensed sector have so far detected no breaches or unauthorized access within telecom operators’ infrastructure.

⚖️ Crackdown on Data Misuse

As part of its ongoing campaign against unlawful digital activities, PTA has blocked 1,372 websites, mobile apps, and social media pages found to be involved in the sale or dissemination of personal data.

Meanwhile, the Ministry of Interior has constituted a high-level inquiry committee to investigate the matter further, identify the real sources of the breach, and ensure accountability.

🛡️ Public Assurance

PTA emphasized that safeguarding citizens’ data and digital privacy remains a top priority. The Authority reassured the public that it will continue working with telecom operators, government agencies, and law enforcement to curb cybercrime, enhance data protection, and strengthen regulatory oversight in Pakistan’s telecom ecosystem.

10/09/2025

The Bank of Punjab (BOP) has launched Pakistan’s first fully digital SME lending solution, “BOP SME Digital Finance,” in a landmark step toward reshaping the future of small and medium enterprise financing. The launch ceremony, held in Karachi, was attended by senior officials including Deputy Governor SBP, Mr. Saleem Ullah, and President & CEO BOP, Mr. Zafar Masud, signaling the national importance of this innovation.

🚀 A New Era for SME Banking

Mr. Zafar Masud hailed the launch as a “new era of banking for SMEs”, highlighting that BOP is now the first commercial bank in Pakistan to introduce a comprehensive, collateral-free, and fully digital SME lending platform. This initiative builds upon BOP’s strong track record of innovative products such as:

Asaan Karobar Card (AKC)

Asaan Karobar Finance (AKF)

eBusiness Qarza

Kissan Card

Together, these solutions have expanded financial access for small businesses, entrepreneurs, and farmers, setting new industry standards.

📊 Impressive SME Growth at BOP

As of June 30, 2025, BOP’s impact has been remarkable:

🔺 295% increase in SME borrowers

🔺 91% growth in outstanding SME portfolio

🔺 44% market share, placing BOP at the top of the industry

These achievements have not only redefined SME financing in Pakistan but also earned BOP international recognition and awards for digital innovation.

🏦 SBP’s Backing for SME Finance

Deputy Governor Saleem Ullah applauded BOP’s role under the SBP Challenge Fund for SME Financing, which supported the development of this platform. He reiterated SBP’s commitment to SME promotion by:

Removing structural barriers

Simplifying loan processes

Encouraging banks to adopt technology and fintech partnerships

Expanding collateral-free lending

Pakistan’s SME finance portfolio has already reached Rs. 691 billion, marking a 41% YoY increase, with borrower numbers rising 57% YoY to 276,578.

10/09/2025

Yadea, in collaboration with Eiffel Industries Ltd, has officially partnered with the Prime Minister’s Electric Bike Scheme 2025, introducing a highly affordable way for Pakistanis to shift toward clean and sustainable mobility.

The initiative provides a government subsidy of Rs. 50,000 on selected Yadea electric bike models, making eco-friendly commuting accessible to a wider audience.

💸 Zero Down Payment & 0% Markup Plan

One of the scheme’s biggest attractions is the zero-down-payment offer, coupled with a two-year installment plan at 0% markup. With no upfront cost and interest-free payments, customers can now switch to electric mobility without financial strain.

🛡️ Extended Warranty Protection

Each Yadea e-bike purchased under this program comes with comprehensive warranty coverage:

Government Warranty: 36 months or 40,000 km

Yadea Extended Warranty: 12 months or 10,000 km

This brings the total coverage to 4 years or 50,000 km, ensuring durability, reliability, and long-term peace of mind.

🚀 Eligible Models Under the Scheme

The subsidy and installment plan apply to the following Yadea models:

Yadea M3H

Yadea T5L

Yadea VELAX

These models are designed to provide energy-efficient performance, lower running costs, and zero emissions, aligning with Pakistan’s push toward green transportation.

📝 Registration Details

Interested buyers can register through the official PAVE portal (www.pave.gov.pk/register
).

Deadline: September 30, 2025

Policy: First-come, first-served basis

With demand expected to surge, early registration is recommended.

🌱 Driving Pakistan Toward a Green Future

By joining the PM’s Electric Bike Scheme 2025, Yadea and Eiffel Industries are helping reduce Pakistan’s carbon footprint, cutting fuel expenses for households, and supporting the government’s goal of promoting clean energy transportation nationwide.

10/09/2025

The Pakistan Stock Exchange (PSX) extended its bullish streak on Tuesday, with the benchmark KSE-100 index climbing as high as 1,001 points intraday before settling at a fresh closing high of 156,563 points.

At close, the market notched a 476-point gain (0.31%), reflecting strong investor optimism and healthy trading momentum.

🔑 Market Highlights

Active Participation: Out of 478 companies traded, 154 advanced, 291 declined, while 33 remained unchanged.

Sector Leaders: Blue-chip stocks drove the rally, led by:

Engro Corporation (ENGROH)

Fauji Fertilizer Company (FFC)

Meezan Bank (MEBL)

Mari Petroleum (MARI)

Engro Fertilizers (EFERT)
These five counters alone contributed 886 points to the index.

Trading Volumes: Daily volumes touched 1.06 billion shares with a total traded value of Rs. 55.1 billion.

Volume Leader: K-Electric Limited (KEL) led activity with 169 million shares traded.

📊 Why It Matters

The rally highlights renewed investor confidence in Pakistan’s fertilizer, energy, and banking sectors.

Rising volumes signal robust liquidity, attracting both institutional and retail investors.

The record high underscores PSX’s resilience despite global market uncertainty, showing confidence in Pakistan’s macroeconomic outlook.

10/09/2025

Pakistan and Türkiye have reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening economic ties by setting an ambitious target of $5 billion in bilateral trade, following the conclusion of the 16th Session of the Pakistan–Türkiye Joint Ministerial Commission (JMC) held in Islamabad on September 8–9.

🌍 A Longstanding Partnership

The JMC, established in 1975 as a cornerstone of bilateral economic cooperation, continues to play a vital role in expanding relations between the two nations. This year’s session was co-chaired by Pakistan’s Commerce Minister Jam Kamal Khan and Türkiye’s Minister of National Defence Yaşar Güler.

Ahead of the formal meeting, both sides engaged in extensive consultations through the High-Level Strategic Cooperation Council (HLSCC), Joint Standing Committees, and diplomatic channels, paving the way for a comprehensive draft protocol that resolved critical cooperation areas.

📈 Trade & Investment Focus

Discussions spanned 24 key sectors, with trade, investment, energy, ICT, finance, and industrial cooperation at the forefront.

The Trade in Goods Agreement negotiations will kick off in October 2025.

Both countries pledged to strengthen business-to-business linkages, expand digital trade, and enhance customs cooperation to achieve the $5 billion goal.

🚆 Regional Connectivity & Infrastructure

Commitments were made to expedite the Islamabad–Tehran–Istanbul (ITI) Railway Corridor and advance the proposed TURPAK Transport Corridor, boosting regional connectivity. Maritime collaboration will also deepen in ship recycling, port development, and logistics.

⚡ Energy & Digital Transformation

Both sides agreed to form Sub-Working Groups in renewables, hydrocarbons, LNG, hydrogen, mining, EV infrastructure, and hydropower.
In ICT and digital transformation, plans include hosting an IT Business Forum and expanding SME cooperation through the SMEDA–KOSGEB MoU.

03/09/2025

The Federal Board of Revenue (FBR) has rolled out a sweeping new tax regime for Pakistan’s e-commerce industry, restricting online marketplaces (OMPs) and courier services from engaging with unregistered sellers starting July 1, 2025.

The decision marks a major step toward formalizing Pakistan’s digital economy and ensuring wider tax compliance as online retail continues to expand at a rapid pace.

According to a newly issued income tax circular, all sellers operating on e-stores or through digital platforms must now register with the FBR and obtain a National Tax Number (NTN). Platforms and courier companies will be legally required to deny services to unregistered sellers and file monthly transaction statements with the tax authority.

FBR officials highlighted that Pakistan’s e-commerce sector remains largely informal, with thousands of sellers running businesses without tax registration. To simplify compliance, the tax authority has introduced a streamlined NTN registration process.

In addition, the FBR has implemented a withholding tax mechanism to capture revenues from every digitally ordered transaction.

For digital payments, banks, financial institutions, payment gateways, and foreign exchange dealers will collect a 1% withholding tax.

For Cash on Delivery (CoD) transactions, courier services will collect a 2% withholding tax on the gross receipt amount.

The board clarified that the two-tier structure is intended to encourage digital payments while discouraging reliance on cash. Officials stated that these measures will not only boost tax collection but also align with the government’s broader vision of transitioning Pakistan toward a cashless economy.

Industry observers believe the move could reshape the online retail landscape by pushing small sellers into the formal economy.

03/09/2025

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and Russian President Vladimir Putin have pledged to deepen bilateral cooperation across multiple sectors, including trade, energy, defence, and regional connectivity, during a high-level meeting on the sidelines of a summit in Beijing.

PM Shehbaz praised President Putin’s leadership and acknowledged Russia’s role in advancing closer ties with Pakistan. Referring to their last interaction at the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) Summit in Astana, he noted tangible progress in cooperation over the past year.

“Relations between the two countries have improved significantly in recent years due to your personal commitment and interest,” the prime minister said, while expressing optimism that momentum would continue in commerce, agriculture, transport, and industrial development.

Trade between the two nations has grown notably, particularly after Pakistan began importing Russian oil, which helped boost overall bilateral volumes. The prime minister also highlighted new agreements in iron, steel, and energy sectors, along with discussions on establishing a regional trade corridor connecting Belarus, Russia, Kazakhstan, Uzbekistan, Afghanistan, and Pakistan.

PM Shehbaz reiterated Pakistan’s intention to pursue complementary ties with Russia, despite Moscow’s longstanding relations with India, stressing that cooperation would benefit the progress and prosperity of the wider region.

President Putin, describing Pakistan as a “traditional partner in Asia,” welcomed these sentiments and underlined the need to expand bilateral trade while addressing existing obstacles. He also expressed condolences over Pakistan’s recent natural disasters and floods, voicing confidence in the country’s resilience.

The Russian president invited PM Shehbaz to attend the upcoming SCO Heads of Government Summit in Russia this November.

03/09/2025

Beijing, Sep 2, 2025 – Poco has introduced the C85, an affordable smartphone that combines budget-friendly pricing with a massive 6,000 mAh battery, making it one of the most cost-efficient big-battery phones on the market. The device closely resembles the recently launched Redmi 15C 4G, sharing similar hardware with slight tweaks in branding and design.

🔹 Design & Display

The Poco C85 comes with a 6.9-inch IPS LCD display offering a 720×1600 resolution and a smooth 120Hz refresh rate. It supports up to 810 nits peak brightness, ensuring visibility even in bright outdoor conditions. With an IP64 rating for dust and splash resistance, a side-mounted fingerprint sensor, and a 3.5mm headphone jack, the phone balances practicality and durability. Weighing 205 grams and measuring 7.99 mm thick, it will be available in black, green, and purple color options.

🔹 Performance & Software

Under the hood, the C85 is powered by the MediaTek Helio G81 Ultra chipset with an octa-core CPU and Mali-G52 MC2 GPU. The phone comes in 6GB RAM + 128GB and 8GB RAM + 256GB variants, with expandable storage via a card slot. It runs on Android 15 with HyperOS 2, bringing the latest software optimizations.

🔹 Cameras

For photography, the device features a 50MP main camera paired with a secondary QVGA sensor, while an 8MP selfie shooter handles front-facing photos and video calls. Both rear and front cameras support 1080p video recording at 30fps.

🔹 Battery & Charging

The highlight of the Poco C85 is its 6,000 mAh battery, capable of powering through multiple days of use. It supports 33W fast wired charging and even includes 10W reverse wired charging, allowing the phone to function as a mini power bank for other devices.

🔹 Pricing

With a starting price of just $95, the Poco C85 positions itself as a budget powerhouse, targeting users who prioritize battery life and core functionality at an ultra-affordable cost.

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