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In Focus
Pakistan and Afghanistan continue to exchange fire as border tensions escalate
Marco Rubio says US would play “productive role” in easing tensions; 10,000 Afghans deported from KP in four months
On 02 November, Dawn and The News Pakistan reported that Pakistani and Afghan forces exchanged fire at several border points, temporarily shutting the Torkham crossing and escalating clashes near Angoor Adda in Lower South Waziristan. The Torkham incident reportedly followed renewed Afghan construction at a disputed check post, while Pakistani forces responded to firing from Afghan positions near Angoor Adda. Separately, Pakistani authorities continued repatriating undocumented Afghans, reporting nearly 10,000 deportations from Khyber Pakhtunkhwa over four months.
The clashes came amid increasingly forceful warnings from Pakistan’s military. Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) chief Lt Gen Ahmed Sharif Chaudhry said Pakistan had the operational capability to impose a heavy cost on the Afghan Taliban if terrorism originating from Afghanistan continued. Islamabad alleges that Kabul is failing to dismantle sanctuaries linked to the Tehreek-i-Taliban Pakistan (TTP), while the Afghan Taliban reject Pakistan’s accusations. Meanwhile, US Secretary of State Marco Rubio said Washington had heard Pakistan’s concerns and would play a “productive role” in easing tensions if possible.
The latest confrontations reflect a broader deterioration in bilateral relations since September, following Pakistani airstrikes and repeated border incidents. Previous mediation efforts involving Qatar, Türkiye and China failed to produce a breakthrough, while Russia has also offered to facilitate a settlement. Islamabad continues to demand action against militant groups operating from Afghan territory, while disputes over border security, terrorism and the repatriation of Afghan nationals remain central to relations. (“Pakistan responds to unprovoked firing from Afghan posts along border in Lower South Waziristan: DC,” Dawn, 01 November 2026; “Kabul warned of ‘unbearable punishment’ as clashes persist along border,” Dawn, 02 November 2026; “US hears Pakistan’s concerns over terrorism from Afghanistan, would play ‘productive role’ if there is one: Rubio,” Dawn, 01 November 2026; “Fresh drive launched to repatriate Afghan nationals,” The News Pakistan, 02 November 2026)
37 per cent decline in terrorist attacks across Pakistan in October
Country experienced 143 attacks compared to 226 in September, according to PICSS; kidnappings increase in Balochistan
On 01 November, Dawn reported that terrorist attacks in Pakistan declined by 37 per cent in October, falling from 226 in September to 143, according to the Pakistan Institute for Conflict and Security Studies (PICSS). Terrorist fatalities dropped by 57 per cent, from 260 to 111, while injuries declined by 71 per cent to 69. The improvement reversed two consecutive months of rising violence, with Balochistan and mainland Khyber Pakhtunkhwa recording substantial reductions. Suicide attacks also fell from three in September to one in October.
Balochistan recorded a 46 per cent decline in attacks, from 132 to 71, while mainland KP saw attacks fall by 31 per cent to 40. The former FATA region recorded a more modest 12 per cent decline, with 30 attacks. Security operations resulted in 156 terrorists killed and seven suspected terrorists arrested nationwide. However, kidnappings increased by 22 per cent to 88, the highest monthly figure recorded in the preceding year. Balochistan accounted for 70 cases, nearly 80 per cent of the national total.
Despite October’s improvement, the longer-term security situation remains concerning. Pakistan recorded 1,376 terrorist attacks during the first 10 months of 2026, a 53 per cent increase compared with the corresponding period in 2025. Attacks and counterterrorism operations collectively caused 3,902 deaths, up 36 per cent year-on-year. Meanwhile, the Centre for Research and Security Studies (CRSS) reported that violence-related fatalities rose by 83 per cent during the third quarter of 2026, reversing earlier declines. (“Terrorist attacks drop by 37pc in October: PICSS,” Dawn, 01 November 2026)
In Brief
EXTERNAL
Tajik ambassador aims at stronger economic ties with Pakistan
On 03 November, The News Pakistan reported that Tajik Ambassador to Pakistan, Sharifzoda Yousuf Toir, had called for stronger economic engagement between Tajikistan and Pakistan. Toir made the remarks at the Pakistan Textile Exporters Association (PTEA), where he stated both countries could improve existing relations through new areas of cooperation, expanding goods traded and stronger linkages between private sectors. The ambassador also expressed his desire to increase bilateral trade from the present figure of USD 43 million to USD 200 million over the next three years. According to Toir, achieving this would need continued engagement, stronger commercial ties and closer coordination among businesses and relevant institutions in both countries. The need for closer economic engagement to unlock the countries’ full trading potential was highlighted by PTEA Chairman Rehan Naseem Bharara as well. The chairman listed steps which could improve trade, including exchange of export-oriented trade delegations, single country exhibitions, and close liaison between trade organisations from both countries. (“Tajik envoy for boosting trade with Pakistan to $200m in three years,” The News Pakistan, 03 November 2026)
Pakistan takes over as chairman of SCO Interbank Consortium
On 02 November, Dawn reported that Pakistan was now the chairman of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) Interbank Consortium. The Pakistani Ministry of Finance issued a statement informing about the chairmanship, with HBL Chairman Sultan Ali Allana taking over as chairman for the 2026-27 period. The ministry informed that this coincided with Pakistani chairmanship of the SCO for the same time period, and showed its role in promoting regional trade, investment, economic cooperation and financial connectivity. It was further reaffirmed by the ministry that Pakistan was committed towards improving economic partnerships among SCO member states, ensuring cross-border trade and investment, and advancing regional integration and shared prosperity. (“Pakistan assumes chairmanship of SCO Interbank Consortium for 2026-27,” Dawn, 02 November 2026)
Pakistan and China hold high-level meetings on regional and global developments
On 02 November, Dawn reported that Pakistan and China had discussed regional and global developments in high-level meetings. The minister of the International Department of the Communist Party of China’s Central Committee (IDCPC), Liu Haixing, arrived in Islamabad for a three-day visit. The Pakistan Prime Minister’s Office (PMO) informed that Haixing and his delegation met with Pakistan Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif. It further informed that both sides exchanged views on regional and international developments, and reaffirmed a shared commitment towards maintaining close cooperation at bilateral and multilateral forums. Pakistan PM Shehbaz Sharif praised the shared focus on improved cooperation across sectors like trade, investment, infrastructure development and connectivity. The PM further emphasised maintaining party-to-party exchanges and political engagement to strengthen bilateral relations. Shehbaz further expressed gratitude to the IDCPC for its crucial role in promoting cooperation between the political leadership of Pakistan and China, and ensuring institutional linkages. According to the PMO, Haixing also appreciated the momentum in high-level and party-to-party exchanges, aimed at improving the “iron-clad friendship” between Pakistan and China. Haixing also held a meeting with Chief of Defence Forces(CDF) Asim Munir and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar, wherein the commitment towards maintaining the momentum in bilateral ties was emphasised. (“Pakistan, China discuss regional and global developments in high-level meetings,” Dawn, 02 November 2026)
Pakistan presents itself as transit corridor for Central Asian markets at Kazakh economic forum
On 02 November, Dawn reported that Pakistan had presented itself as a trade and transit corridor providing access to international markets for Central Asian countries. The Pakistani Minister for Board of Investment (BoI) Qaiser Ahmed Shaikh made the remarks at the opening session of the Tianshan Forum for Central Asian Economic and Quality Investment in Almaty, Kazakhstan. The BoI issued a press release stating that Shaikh had referred to Pakistan’s three major seaports, Karachi Port, Port Qasim and Gwadar Port, as strategic gateways which could facilitate regional trade, provide alternative routes for the movement of goods, and improve transportation links. The minister emphasised the potential for Gwadar to improve regional connectivity and economic cooperation. According to Shaikh, the established industrial base, port facilities, financial institutions and business infrastructure present in Karachi provided ample openings for trade, industrial partnerships and foreign investment. According to the BoI statement, Shaikh invited regional and international investors to invest in Pakistan. He further acknowledged the role of the Central Asia Regional Economic Cooperation (CAREC) programme in ensuring a platform for improving economic partnerships between Pakistan and Central Asian states. Shaikh listed Pakistan’s strategic geographic location, young population, seaport infrastructure and industrial capacity as integral towards its role in connecting Central Asia. (“At Kazakhstan forum, Pakistan presents Karachi and Gwadar ports as ‘strategic gateways’ for Central Asian trade,” Dawn, 02 November 2026)
Pakistan presents itself as transit corridor for Central Asian markets at Kazakh economic forum
On 02 November, Dawn reported that Pakistan had presented itself as a trade and transit corridor providing access to international markets for Central Asian countries. The Pakistani Minister for Board of Investment (BoI) Qaiser Ahmed Shaikh made the remarks at the opening session of the Tianshan Forum for Central Asian Economic and Quality Investment in Almaty, Kazakhstan. The BoI issued a press release stating that Shaikh had referred to Pakistan’s three major seaports, Karachi Port, Port Qasim and Gwadar Port, as strategic gateways which could facilitate regional trade, provide alternative routes for the movement of goods, and improve transportation links. The minister emphasised the potential for Gwadar to improve regional connectivity and economic cooperation. According to Shaikh, the established industrial base, port facilities, financial institutions and business infrastructure present in Karachi provided ample openings for trade, industrial partnerships and foreign investment. According to the BoI statement, Shaikh invited regional and international investors to invest in Pakistan. He further acknowledged the role of the Central Asia Regional Economic Cooperation (CAREC) programme in ensuring a platform for improving economic partnerships between Pakistan and Central Asian states. Shaikh listed Pakistan’s strategic geographic location, young population, seaport infrastructure and industrial capacity as integral towards its role in connecting Central Asia. (“At Kazakhstan forum, Pakistan presents Karachi and Gwadar ports as ‘strategic gateways’ for Central Asian trade,” Dawn, 02 November 2026)
Iran involved in diplomatic contacts with Pakistan and Qatar, foreign minister says
On 02 November, The Express Tribune reported that Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi said his government was conducting diplomatic contacts through Pakistani and Qatari mediators. Araghchi said the contacts involved dozens of phone calls and “intensive shuttle diplomacy.” The foreign minister said that Iran had presented a clear plan and conditions for a diplomatic resolution, with the opportunity for peace in the hands of the US. He also stated Tehran was prepared for both diplomatic and military scenarios. The remarks came amidst threats by US President Donald Trump of renewed military action against Iran. (“Tehran engaged in ‘intensive shuttle diplomacy’ through Qatari, Pakistani mediators: Araghchi,” The Express Tribune, 02 November 2026)
Pakistan assumes G-24 chairmanship, pledges fairer and development-focused global financial system
On 01 November, Dawn reported that Pakistan assumed the chairmanship of the Group of 24 developing nations, with Finance Minister Muhammad Aurangzeb calling the role a profound responsibility. The G-24, established in 1971, coordinates developing countries’ positions on international monetary and financial issues. Aurangzeb outlined three priorities: placing development at the centre of global economic policymaking, strengthening multilateral frameworks and advancing a development-oriented financial architecture. He stressed macroeconomic stability, affordable development financing, sustainable debt solutions and climate resilience. Pakistan will work with the IMF, the World Bank and partners across Africa, Asia, Latin America and the Caribbean. Aurangzeb also acknowledged outgoing chair Nigeria’s leadership. (“Pakistan becomes chair of G-24 bloc of developing nations, reaffirms pledge to fairer global financial system,” Dawn, 01 November 2026)
Singaporean foreign minister visits Islamabad to deepen trade, disaster management and digital ties
On 31 October, Dawn reported that Singaporean Minister for Foreign Affairs Dr Vivian Balakrishnan visited Pakistan at the invitation of Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar. The two ministers discussed cooperation in trade, investment, agriculture, infrastructure and digital technologies. Both sides also discussed deepening Pakistan’s engagement with ASEAN ahead of Singapore’s chairmanship in 2027. They exchanged an MoU between Pakistan’s National Disaster Management Authority and Singapore’s Civil Defence Force on disaster preparedness. Balakrishnan also met the Chief of Defence Forces and Chief of Army Staff, Field Marshal Asim Munir, as well as Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif. Dar discussed the possible resumption of direct flights between the two countries. The visit marks 60 years of diplomatic relations. (“Singapore FM’s visit focused on enhancing cooperation in trade, infrastructure and digital technologies: FO,” Dawn, 31 October 2026)
Syria considers joining Makkah defence pact as Damascus pledges support for Gulf states
On 31 October, Dawn reported that Syrian Foreign Minister Asaad al-Shaibani said Damascus is evaluating entry into the Makkah Joint Defence Agreement, which binds Pakistan, Saudi Arabia and Turkiye. Speaking at the Manama Dialogue in Bahrain, he said discussions were underway. He also voiced support for Gulf states against aggression and condemned missile and drone attacks. Al-Shaibani criticised repeated Israeli strikes on Syrian territory and affirmed that the occupied Golan is Syrian land. Earlier, Inter-Services Public Relations Director General Lieutenant General Ahmed Sharif Chaudhry said the pact’s wording did not bar new members and stressed that it is purely defensive. The pact was signed on 07 August. (“Syria weighing whether to join Makkah pact: foreign minister,” Dawn, 31 October 2026)
POLITICS & GOVERNANCE
KP Governor says Centre failing to give province the support it deserves
On 02 November, Dawn reported that Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Governor Faisal Karim Kundi said the federal government was failing to provide the province the support it deserves. Addressing the annual conference of the Pakistan Association of Urological Surgeons in Peshawar, he called for practical steps to improve the province’s health sector on the pattern of Punjab and Sindh. He stressed equal access to specialised care in merged, southern and far-flung districts. Kundi said the monthly salary of PKR 70,000 for house officers was insufficient and would be reviewed. In a separate address at Darbar-i-Aalia Murshadabad Sharif, he urged religious scholars to promote tolerance and discourage extremism. He also said the province’s oil, gas, water and Tarbela Dam resources could transform its economy. (“Governor Kundi says Centre failing to give KP support it deserves,” Dawn, 02 November 2026)
PPP protests over prolonged power and gas outages in Karachi’s South district threaten wider demonstrations
On 02 November, Dawn reported that the Pakistan Peoples Party staged a protest rally in Karachi against prolonged electricity and gas outages in Lyari and other southern neighbourhoods. The rally, led by PPP South District President Javed Nagori, marched from Lyari Gate to the Karachi Press Club. MNA Sardar Nabil Gabol said meetings with K-Electric officials had failed to improve the utility’s performance or attitude. Nagori claimed residents faced up to 16 hours of load-shedding daily, with outages reaching 21 hours in some localities. He also accused Sui Southern Gas Company of charging consumers for newly laid pipelines without providing adequate gas. The party warned it would protest outside both utilities’ headquarters if the situation persisted. (“PPP stages rally against prolonged power, gas outages in Karachi’s district South,” Dawn, 02 November 2026)
PTI political committee rejects factionalism, warns of action against undisciplined members
On 02 November, Dawn reported that PTI’s political committee rejected claims of factionalism within the party and warned that action would be taken against members who violate its discipline. The committee said there was no grouping or division and that the party remained united behind Imran Khan. It demanded meetings for Imran and Bushra Bibi with their families and the release of detained leaders, including Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Chief Minister Sohail Afridi. It also sought the release of Imran’s sisters, Aleema Khan, Noreen Niazi and Uzma Khan, who remain detained under the Maintenance of Public Order Ordinance. The committee condemned alleged raids on opposition leaders’ homes and expressed concern over rising inflation and LPG prices. (“Political committee denies ‘factionalism’ within PTI, warns against violating party discipline,” Dawn, 02 November 2026)
PTI counsel says he met Imran Khan and Bushra Bibi at Adiala jail after months of restricted access
On 02 November, Dawn reported that PTI lawyer Barrister Salman Safdar said he met party founder Imran Khan and his wife, Bushra Bibi, at Rawalpindi’s Adiala jail. He said it was his first meeting with Imran in seven months and with Bushra in 11 months. The meeting lasted 40 minutes, which Safdar said was insufficient to cover all cases and legal matters. Both briefed him on their health and living conditions and gave fresh instructions on legal matters. The Islamabad High Court has allowed Imran twice-weekly meetings with family and lawyers, but such access has largely been restricted in recent months. Imran’s sisters remain unable to stage sit-ins outside the jail since their detention in late September. (“PTI lawyer Salman Safdar says he met Imran, Bushra Bibi at Adiala jail,” Dawn, 02 November 2026)
JUI-F Balochistan tells workers to prepare for protest call
On 02 November, Dawn reported that the Balochistan chapter of JUI-F, at a provincial executive and parliamentary members' meeting chaired by Senator Maulana Abdul Wasey on Sunday, directed workers across the province to complete organisational and protest preparations in line with party chief Fazlur Rehman's directives. The meeting endorsed Fazl's stance and the central executive council's decisions, and decided to activate party organisations from provincial to union council level. It voiced concern over a business standstill, rising unemployment, targeted killings and unsafe highways, accused the provincial government of failing to ensure public safety, and demanded bills on the registration of religious seminaries and on mines and minerals. Wasey also warned against dragging Pakistan into conflicts at the behest of the United States and Israel. ("JUI-F asks its workers to 'be prepared'," Dawn, 02 November 2026)
PM Shehbaz says PTI did little for KP in 13 years and defends emergency
On 31 October, Dawn reported that Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif told a PML-N KP parliamentary party meeting in Islamabad on Saturday that the PTI had governed the province for 13 years and had done "very little, if anything" to meet people's basic needs, questioning whether its pledges on dams, solar power, hospitals and universities were met and whether funds were used transparently. He said the Centre had no option but to impose the emergency and governor's rule, which he called timely, and that a draft agreement from 48 hours of PPP and PML-N talks with the PTI was never approved by then chief minister Sohail Afridi. He also said that even PKR 80 billion spent on policing would have left the province better equipped, and urged PML-N lawmakers to focus on short-term welfare projects over the next six months to a year. PTI information secretary Sheikh Waqas Akram replied that the prime minister had no moral authority to lecture the party and accused the Centre of failing to give KP the resources for counterterrorism. ("'Very little, if anything, done for KP': PM Shehbaz rails against PTI's governance in province," Dawn, 31 October 2026)
ECONOMY
Pakistan’s public debt increases by PKR 6.21 trillion in FY26
On 03 November, The News Pakistan reported that Pakistan’s public and publicly guaranteed debt (PPG) has gone up by PKR 6.21 trillion by the end of June 2026, as total PPG debt increased from PKR 84.77 trillion to PKR 90.98 trillion during the June 2025 to June 2026 period. The country’s debt stock increased by 7.3 per cent in a one-year period, as Rs6.2 trillion increased in the form of public debt while PKR 0.01 trillion ballooned in the shape of publicly guaranteed debt. However, the total PPG has gone up in absolute figures, but the PPG Debt-to-GDP ratio witnessed a decline of 2.6 percentage points, falling from 74.3 per cent in June 2025 to 71.7 per cent by the end of June 2026. There is a massive surge in the domestic debt as it went up by PKR 4.93 trillion in the last one-year period, as it increased from PKR 56.7 trillion to PKR 61.65 trillion from June 2025 to June 2026. The external debt ballooned by PKR 1.29 trillion as it increased from PKR 28.06 trillion in June 2025 to PKR 29.35 trillion by June 2026.(“Pakistan’s public debt rises Rs6.2tr to Rs91tr in FY26,” The News Pakistan, 03 November 2026)
Wheat flour crisis threatens food security
On 02 November, Dawn reported that wheat flour has become an existential daily struggle for millions of working people. Persistent policy failures, flawed policy experiments, and poor execution have fractured wheat and flour supply chains, threatening household food security. Over the past five years, flour prices have surged from PKR 50 per kg to PKR 150 to PKR 170 nationally, a staggering over 200 per cent increase. In Punjab, the country’s breadbasket, flour is selling for over PKR 200 per kg in deficit districts like Rawalpindi. The price of roti has already surged by more than 212 per cent from PKR 8 in 2021 to PKR 25 in 2026. For the first four of the five years since 2021, government-supplied flour provided a lifeline to the most vulnerable segments of society. This year, Punjab holds barely 25 per cent of its own requirement, let alone serving other federating units, because of its failed experiment with procurement, leaving the private sector with a dictatorial share of stocks and power over prices. The price climb has been even steeper this year: from PKR 79 to PKR 180 per kg. Government-supplied flour, regardless of the quantity released, is officially priced at PKR 110 per kg, while the private flour sells at PKR 150 per kg, a difference of PKR 40, or 36.4 per cent. This price differential, over and above normal profit margins, opens a window for retailers to reap windfall gains at the expense of consumers. (“Agriculture: How flawed wheat policy fuelled flour crisis,” Dawn, 02 November 2026)
Privatisation commission proposes power sector reforms
On 02 November, Dawn reported that the Privatisation Commission has proposed a broad package of power sector reforms to accompany the sale of Discos to ease the concerns of investors competing to acquire state-owned power distribution companies. The most consequential of the proposed reforms include dismantling the uniform electricity tariff regime across these companies, enabling competing private suppliers to charge different rates while maintaining regulated tariffs for consumers served under a Supplier of Last Resort (SoLR) mechanism. Other key measures feature a time-bound initiative to trim tariff differential subsidies and realign domestic electricity prices with actual supply costs, while safeguarding targeted relief for vulnerable households. Additionally, the regulatory multi-year tariff period will be extended from five to seven years. The proposed changes form part of a structural overhaul of the power distribution sector designed to support privatisation. The plan envisages unbundling distribution network ownership from retail supply, transferring legacy capacity-payment obligations to private suppliers alongside customer portfolios, and tying utility returns to operational efficiency, loss reduction, and service quality rather than capital assets. (“New power reforms,” Dawn, 02 November 2026)
Consumer inflation eases to 9.6 per cent in October
On 02 November, Dawn reported that as per Pakistan Bureau of Statistics data, Consumer inflation eased to 9.6 per cent in October from 10.3 per cent a month earlier. The slowdown in the inflation rate for the second consecutive month, measured by the Consumer Price Index, reversed the sharp increase recorded in August, when higher food and energy prices pushed the annual rate to 11.1 per cent from 9.2 per cent in July. The easing was recorded in both places, in rural areas where inflation fell to 9.5 per cent from 10.1 per cent, while urban inflation edged down to 9.8 per cent from 10.5 per cent. However, despite the decline in the annual rate, prices rose 1.1 per cent month-on-month in October. The annual inflation rate was 6.2 per cent in October last year. The average inflation between July and October stood at 10.05 per cent compared with 4.79 per cent over the corresponding period last year. The latest data shows that the composition of inflation shifted in October. While food inflation slowed sharply, electricity and transport costs continued to rise. Electricity charges increased by 8.50 per cent from the previous month, while transport prices rose by 30.39 per cent in urban areas. (“Consumer inflation falls to 9.6pc in Oct from 10.3pc in Sept,” Dawn, 02 November 2026)
Oil refineries agree to bear a burden of PKR 15 billion each month to curb fuel prices
On 02 November, Dawn reported that the government said oil refineries would bear a burden of approximately PKR 15 billion each month, which would allow petrol to be sold PKR 15 cheaper than what it was in the global market amid the US-Israeli war on Iran. The petroleum minister said that Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif had made efforts to meet with oil refineries and consult with them regarding interventions to ensure that people got the cheapest petrol amid impending steep fuel price increases. He added that before the crisis, the premium of the refineries was USD 5 per barrel, and even today a USD 20 limit had been established. He further said that the government would have to step in and protect the public in case of further difficulties. He also highlighted that the number of unique users who had registered for the fuel subsidy scheme had now crossed 15 million. He said that about PKR 27 billion had so far been allocated towards this relief and highlighted its success. (“Govt enlists oil refineries to shield citizens from global price hikes,” Dawn, 02 November 2026)
FBR misses revenue collection target by PKR 96 billion during first four months of FY27
On 01 November, Dawn reported that the Federal Board of Revenue (FBR) had collected PKR 4.089 trillion during the first four months from July to October of the current fiscal year (FY27), falling short of its target of PKR 4.185 trillion by PKR 96 billion. The shortfall was attributed mainly to negative growth in income tax collection, followed by marginal growth in customs duty receipts during October. Both income tax and customs duty collections remained below their respective targets for the period under review. Overall revenue collection posted modest growth of 6 per cent compared to PKR 3.840 trillion collected during the same period last year. Revenue collection reached PKR 1.003 trillion in October 2026, against the target of PKR 1.132 trillion, falling short by PKR 102 billion. The collection recorded growth of 5 per cent over PKR 951 billion collected in October 2025. Meanwhile, the FBR has not extended the deadline for filing tax returns. It received 7.660 million returns by 31 October, compared to 5.941 million during the same period last year, showing an increase of 28.93 per cent. In FY26, the FBR collected more than PKR 13 trillion, exceeding the downwardly revised target of PKR 12.983 trillion by over PKR 21 billion. Sales tax and FED collections exceeded their targets, while income tax and customs duty collections fell short of their respective targets. (“Four-month revenue target missed by Rs96bn,” Dawn, 01 November 2026)
World Bank approves USD 150 million programme to improve property tax collection in Sindh
On 01 November, Dawn reported that the World Bank has approved a USD 150 million programme to help the Sindh government improve urban property tax collection and strengthen municipal service delivery in 25 towns of Karachi. The Sindh Property Revenues Enhancement Programme (Sindh PREP), approved by the World Bank board of executive directors, will benefit Karachi’s 25 local councils. Its primary beneficiaries are the 3.58 million people living in these councils, where service delivery investments will be financed, the World Bank resident mission in Islamabad announced on Saturday. Karachi has significant untapped potential to generate revenues from its property base and use those resources to fund the infrastructure its residents and businesses need. This programme will help Sindh strengthen fiscal sustainability, enabling cities to plan, invest, and deliver services from their own resources effectively. (“World Bank okays $150m plan to boost property tax collection in Karachi,” Dawn, 01 November 2026)
LPG prices in the open market twice as high as official rate amid supply shortage
On 01 November, Dawn reported that Liquefied Petroleum Gas prices in the open market are twice as high as the official rate amid a shortage of LPG due to the US-Iran war. The Oil and Gas Regulatory Authority (OGRA) notified PKR 294,075 per tonne for November, compared to PKR 279,341 in the previous month. Following the increase, the official retail rate of an 11.8 kg domestic cylinder of LPG is PKR 3,470, up by PKR 173. The official LPG rate is PKR 294 per kilogramme. The oil and gas regulator said that the LPG producer price was linked to Saudi Aramco-CP and the US dollar exchange rate. It added that compared to the previous month, Saudi Aramco-CP had increased by 6.47 per cent, while the average dollar exchange rate had slightly decreased by 0.12 per cent, resulting in an increase in the LPG consumer price by PKR 14.73 per kg. In the open market, LPG is selling for up to PKR 630 per kg, while the company-operated franchises are charging up to Rs400 per kg, with many warning that the crisis would compound due to the gas shortage. (“LPG price twice the official rate in open market,” Dawn, 01 November 2026)
Karachi Port handles two foreign bulk carriers carrying a combined 101,000 tonnes of fertiliser and wheat
On 02 November, Dawn reported that the Karachi Port Trust (KPT) has simultaneously handled two foreign bulk carriers carrying a combined 101,000 tonnes of diammonium phosphate (DAP) fertiliser and wheat. The two vessels, MV ZHONG CHANG 538 and MV GOKOVA M, carrying 50,000 tonnes of DAP fertiliser and 51,000 tonnes of wheat, respectively, were berthed at Karachi Gateway Terminal Multipurpose. The Federal Minister for Maritime Affairs said the concurrent unloading of the vessels underscored the port’s enhanced capacity to manage critical agricultural inputs and essential commodities efficiently. He also said that the Ministry of Maritime Affairs was pursuing reforms to reduce vessel turnaround times, improve port management and strengthen maritime infrastructure to facilitate international trade and ensure an uninterrupted supply of essential commodities. (“Karachi Port Trust handles ships with 101,000 tonnes of cargo,” Dawn, 02 November 2026)
AWAJ President calls for a unified industry body to safeguard digital asset investors in Pakistan
On 02 November, Dawn reported that Asia Web3 Alliance Japan (AWAJ) President said Pakistan needs a unified industry representative body to safeguard digital asset investors and improve coordination with international cryptocurrency exchanges. He said the country’s growing cryptocurrency market faced significant challenges in the absence of verified investor data and an organised mechanism to represent industry stakeholders, particularly in the event of major cybersecurity or financial incidents involving international exchanges. She pointed out that Pakistan ranked third in the 2025 Global Crypto Adoption Index compiled by Chainalysis. Estimates suggesting around 40 million crypto-linked accounts and digital asset exposure of between USD 10 billion and USD 20 billion indicated the potential scale of the market, although these figures had not been officially verified as representing individual investors. She also called for the establishment of a national digital finance platform supported by reliable market research, coordinated investor grievance mechanisms, cybersecurity awareness and formal partnerships with international industry organisations. She also said Pakistan’s digital finance potential extended beyond cryptocurrency trading to include blockchain applications, digital payments, fintech entrepreneurship and international investment. (“Unified crypto industry body proposed,” Dawn, 02 November 2026)
US-backed consortium proposes USD 4.4 billion investment in Pakistan’s LNG project
On 02 November, Dawn reported that a private consortium of US companies, backed by the Trump administration, is pushing for an investment of up to USD 4.4 billion in an integrated liquefied natural gas (LNG) project in Pakistan, covering imports, storage, re-gasification, gas transmission and sales to large consumers on a ‘merchant basis’. The development comes after Energas, an earlier frontrunner consisting of the Lucky Group and QatarEnergy, abandoned a similar project citing fundamental changes in Pakistan’s energy policy and requirements, as well as longstanding unresolved policy and fiscal issues. The US consortium comprises Global Vision Energy Partners (GVEP) and Khanjee Holdings, both related firms, along with strategic co-investors from other countries and General Mediterranean Holding, a Luxembourg-based US financial conglomerate. The sponsors have reportedly secured consent from the Port Qasim Authority for the proposed project site. An application has also been filed with the Oil and Gas Regulatory Authority (OGRA) for a provisional licence. A special purpose vehicle (SPV), a separate legal entity established to hold specific assets and liabilities and isolate financial risks, has been incorporated. Government facilitation has also been conveyed through the Ministry of Maritime Affairs and the Ministry of Energy’s Petroleum Division. (“US-backed consortium proposes $4.4 bn LNG project,” Dawn, 02 November 2026)
ENVIRONMENT
Lahore’s air pollution reaches hazardous levels amid widespread crop burning
On 02 November, Dawn reported that Lahore’s air quality reached hazardous levels, with IQAir recording an AQI of 535 and PM2.5 concentrations of 343 micrograms per cubic metre. Gujranwala recorded an AQI of 606, while several other Punjab cities also experienced severe pollution. NASA satellite data analysed by HamariHawa detected 13,241 agricultural fire spots in Pakistani Punjab between 01 and 29 October, compared with 3,158 in Indian Punjab. Meanwhile, the Pakistan Air Quality Initiative (PAQI) found that October’s air quality improvement was largely weather-driven, with pollution remaining above national health limits throughout the month. (“Lahore's air quality index crosses 530 as pollution reaches hazardous levels,” Dawn, 02 November 2026)
Crop fires higher in Pakistani Punjab than Indian Punjab
On 31 October, Dawn reported that crop-fire detections in Pakistani Punjab for the first 29 days of October were 4.2 times higher than in Indian Punjab. The environmental monitoring website HamariHawa released data showing that NASA satellites had detected 13, 241 fire spots across Pakistani Punjab, in contrast to 3,158 in Indian Punjab. VIIRS instruments on the Suomi NPP, NOAA-20 and NOAA-21 satellites were used to collect the data by NASA’s Fire Information for Resource Management System (FIRMS). The data showed that 92 per cent of detected fire spots in Pakistani Punjab were a likely result of crop burning and located on farmland. 6,655 fire spots, which account for around half of the monthly total, were detected during the last seven days of October. The crop fires are largely concentrated in the rice-growing belt around Lahore, with Okara having the highest number of fire spots at 2,144, followed by Gujranwala with 1,011. Additionally, historical analysis conducted by HamariHawa showed that Pakistani Punjab recorded a 33 per cent increase in fire spot detections between 2019 and 2025. On the other hand, Indian Punjab saw a 95 per cent reduction in crop-fire detections between 2021 and 2025. HamariHawa informed that satellite detections only showed locations where fires were burning when satellites passed. It did not indicate the amount of area burnt or volume of smoke produced. (“Pakistan’s Punjab records 4.2 times more crop-fire detections than Indian Punjab: report,” Dawn, 31 October 2026)
PROVINCES
Sindh: Province records largest increase in foreign debt over last two years
On 02 November, Dawn reported that figures from the Pakistani Ministry of Finance had shown that Sindh was the province with the highest increase in foreign debt over the past two years. According to the ministry, Sindh’s level of debt rose from USD 3.777 billion in June 2024 to USD 5.616 billion in June 2026. This indicates an increase of USD 1.839 billion. Meanwhile, Punjab recorded the highest outstanding debt amongst the provinces, with USD 6.402 billion. This is an increase of USD 376 million from June 2024, when the debt stood at USD 6.026 billion. The finance ministry document showed that the combined foreign debt of all the provincial governments witnessed an increase of USD 2.821 billion over the past two years. As of June 2026, the combined debt stands at USD 15.63 billion. (“Sindh records highest increase in foreign debt among provinces in 2 years,” Dawn, 02 November 2026)
JUDICIARY
Punjab government tells LHC that civilians convicted of state offences cannot claim fundamental rights
On 02 November, Dawn reported that the Punjab government told the Lahore High Court that civilians convicted of offences against the state cannot claim fundamental rights protections, seeking dismissal of a petition by Hassaan Khan Niazi, nephew of PTI founder Imran Khan, challenging his transfer to military custody and trial over the 09 May, 2023 riots. Niazi was sentenced to 10 years’ imprisonment in December 2024. The defence ministry argued that his case fell under the Official Secrets Act and Pakistan Army Act, and that constitutional provisions barred the high court from intervening. Both governments maintained that the petition was not maintainable, while Niazi has an appeal pending before the Army Court of Appeals. (“Civilian convicted of offences against state cannot claim fundamental rights, govt says in report to LHC,” Dawn, 02 November 2026)
JUDICIARY
ISPR DG claims Pakistan better in operational readiness than India, Taliban
On 01 November, Dawn reported that the Director-General (DG) of the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR), Lieutenant General Ahmed Sharif Chaudhry, had stated Pakistan was ahead of India and the Afghan Taliban in “operational readiness”. The DG ISPR claimed that Pakistan had shot down dozens of sophisticated drones sent from India during the military confrontation last year, and the Pakistani army was adapting itself to the changing nature of warfare. He stated that the army was aware of the capabilities it required for the present and future, including non-contact and contact warfare, cyber, drones, and long-range missions. The DG also stated the Afghan Taliban only possessed those military capabilities which its sponsors had provided. He alleged that the Afghan Taliban were a “proxy” for India; who he referred to as the “biggest terror sponsor.” While he did not disclose specific details on the extent of artificial intelligence technology used, the DG ISPR described the Pakistani army as a “technology-savvy army” and that AI can and should be used. (“‘We’re technology-savvy’: DG ISPR says Pakistan ahead of India, Afghan Taliban in operational readiness,” Dawn, 01 November 2026)
Senate Chairman warns against weaponising Pakistan’s water supply
On 03 November, The News Pakistan reported that Senate Chairman Yousuf Raza Gilani warned that blocking, suspending or diverting Pakistan’s legitimate water share would constitute an “act of war” and invite a direct response. Addressing Pakistan Water Week 2026, he maintained that the Indus Waters Treaty (IWT) remained binding and could not be unilaterally altered or revoked. Gilani highlighted Pakistan’s growing water insecurity, declining per capita availability, floods and droughts, calling for stronger legislation, disaster preparedness, climate adaptation and coordination between federal and provincial governments. He also stressed equitable water distribution under the 1991 Water Accord and National Water Policy 2018. (“Any bid to block Pakistan’s water an act of war: Gilani,” The News Pakistan, 03 November 2026)
Editorials/Opinions
Health
Editorial, “Learning from polio,” Dawn, 03 November 2026
"The eighth polio case of 2026, involving a 13-month-old girl from Khyber’s Bara tehsil, raises an important question for Pakistan’s eradication programme: how much does it learn from each child who becomes infected? Six of this year’s eight cases have emerged in KP, while sewage samples from the Peshawar-Khyber corridor continue to test positive. The virus is circulating despite repeated campaigns."
https://www.dawn.com/news/2041767/learning-from-polio
External
Editorial, “Can Pakistan cash in on its diplomatic clout?” The Express Tribune, 02 November 2026
“Pakistan's growing diplomatic and strategic clout is no longer in question. The more important question now is whether the country can turn that influence into something tangible at home. That may sound like an unusual way to judge foreign policy. But Pakistan has been here before. Its geography, military strength and relationships with major powers have repeatedly made it relevant during wars, crises and geopolitical realignments. What has remained elusive is the ability to convert that relevance into lasting economic gains."
https://tribune.com.pk/story/2638134/can-pakistan-cash-in-on-its-diplomatic-clout
Editorial, “Pakistan’s G-24 role,” Dawn, 03 November 2026
“Pakistan's new role as chair of G-24 comes at a crucial moment for the Global South. Developing nations are struggling to navigate an era defined by steep tariffs, a revival of industrial policy, weakening multilateralism, rising interest rates, escalating inflation, climate shocks, and global conflicts that have shaken the world economy. And yet, its new position offers Islamabad an opportunity to articulate the concerns of developing economies, build consensus on a common development agenda, and push for a more equitable global financial and economic order. It is a mandate to lead the developing world effectively and to work closely with major powers on critical reforms across international financial institutions."
https://www.dawn.com/news/2041768/pakistans-g-24-role
Society
Editorial, “Police brutality,” The Express Tribune, 03 November 2026
"The persistence of police brutality reflects serious shortcomings in the country's law enforcement system. The police have long operated within a culture that tolerates coercion and intimidation, particularly when dealing with ordinary citizens who lack the means to challenge abuses of authority. Torture is frequently employed as a method of investigation or punishment, while officers accused of misconduct often escape criminal accountability. This has contributed to public distrust of the police and weakened the institution's ability to perform its fundamental duty of maintaining law and order."
https://tribune.com.pk/story/2638299/police-brutality-5
Economy
Srraa Tahir, “Storage deficit,” Dawn, 03 November 2026
“Pakistan has paid for the lack of storage twice this year, first with more gas than it could use, then with too little. The gas sites were identified over 20 years ago; the oil policy has existed for years. What has been missing is the will to follow through. Hormuz will not be the last disruption, and if storage is not ready before the next one, the cost will again fall on industry, on households, and on a treasury paying premium prices for emergency cargoes. The next closure will not wait for another feasibility study."
https://www.dawn.com/news/2041775/storage-deficit
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