NATIONALPakistan’s cement despatches fell 21.02% in May 2026 to 3.837 million tonnes, with both domestic sales and exports declining. However, total despatches in the first 11 months of the fiscal year were still up 6.44%.
NATIONALPakistan’s business confidence slipped nine points to +13% in OICCI’s latest survey, with most firms delaying or reviewing new investment plans. The chamber cited Middle East tensions, inflation, fuel costs and policy uncertainty among the main pressures.
EntertainmentTaylor Swift has confirmed she wrote an original song for Disney and Pixar’s Toy Story 5. The track, I Knew It, I Knew You, is set for release on June 5.
SportsAryna Sabalenka beat Naomi Osaka in straight sets to move into the French Open quarter-finals, where she will face Diana Shnaider. Matteo Berrettini also advanced, reaching his first major quarter-final since the 2022 US Open.
EntertainmentExpress Entertainment’s upcoming drama Bhanwar will premiere on June 3. The serial centres on cyber blackmail, online harassment and digital exploitation through intersecting stories of women targeted by abuse.
NATIONALGold prices in Pakistan climbed on Tuesday in line with gains in international bullion markets. Investors are tracking Middle East developments and upcoming US data for clues on the market's next direction.
WorldPope Leo has begun a week-long visit to Spain that will end with meetings with migrants in the Canary Islands. He is also due to address Spain’s parliament and visit Madrid, Montserrat and Barcelona.
CITYAn 18-year-old domestic worker died at Services Hospital Lahore after alleging repeated sexual assault by her employer’s son and a driver. Police are investigating the criminal case, medical treatment and events leading to her death.
NATIONALThe Environment Protection Department has launched a sulphur dioxide monitoring campaign in Faisalabad ahead of World Environment Day. Officials say current levels are within limits, but the city’s industrial base could increase the environmental burden over time.
NATIONALKhawaja Asif said the Afghan Taliban’s support for the banned TTP remained in place and urged caution over reported signals from Kabul. He said there had been no practical change on the ground.
CITYThe Auqaf Board has taken disciplinary action against several senior Data Darbar officials after corruption inquiries into alleged misappropriation of devotees’ offerings. Penalties include recovery of over Rs20 million, dismissal, demotion and service restrictions.
WorldUS Secretary of State Marco Rubio said Washington will re-engage with Gavi amid an Ebola outbreak in African countries. The alliance had lost about $300 million a year in US funding last year.
