Topic

Economy

Economy: 4 The Indus Compass stories. Latest: Pakistan's trade deficit with Gulf countries widens as energy imports climb. Key developments, background and…

4 stories on economy since 25 September 2026; the latest was published on 27 September 2026.

Key developments

  1. Pakistan's trade deficit with Gulf countries widens as energy imports climbThe trade gap with Gulf partners grew 2.6pc to $3.45bn in July–August as imports from Qatar, Kuwait, Bahrain and Saudi Arabia surged while several export markets shrank.
  2. Inflation expected to ease slightly in September, but oil prices keep risks highAnalysts expect consumer inflation of 10.25–10.75pc in September, down from 11.1pc in August, but warn the Gulf conflict and fuel prices could push it higher.
  3. FBR launches 'faceless' tax audit centre to end face-to-face contact between officials and taxpayersThe FBR's new faceless centre will pick tax audits by computer and split every case between three anonymous officers to curb discretion.
  4. PM Shehbaz tells US business leaders Pakistan's economy is stable and moving towards growthIn New York, PM Shehbaz Sharif told US business leaders the economy has stabilised and pitched agriculture, mining, IT and privatisation to investors.