BusinessKARACHI: FPCCI has warned that Pakistan’s trade deficit widened to $31.99 billion in July-April FY26 as imports rose and exports fell. Business leaders urged faster export support and tighter curbs on unnecessary imports.
PoliticsOpposition lawmakers in the Balochistan Assembly walked out over raids on seminaries and the sealing of mosques. The opposition announced province-wide protests and a Quetta sit-in on May 10.
PoliticsAn anti-terrorism court in Quetta has granted bail to BNP chief Akhtar Mengal in a case linked to a rally held at Shahwani Stadium last year. The court ordered his release against a surety bond of Rs50,000.
NATIONALGas supply to a large part of Sohbatpur district was suspended after unidentified men blew up a gas pipeline near Sohbatpur, police said. The blast affected several rural and urban localities in Nasirabad division.
WorldYasser Abbas is expected to seek a seat on Fatah’s Central Committee at a party conference in Ramallah this month. His anticipated candidacy has intensified debate over succession to Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas.
WorldG7 countries are discussing a permanent secretariat to keep critical minerals initiatives on track beyond rotating presidencies. The proposed body could be based in Paris, while debates continue over stockpiling and leadership.
NATIONALFormer senator Ejaz Chaudhry has been shifted to Lahore’s Services Hospital after his health deteriorated in jail. Doctors advised his immediate transfer, and a medical team has begun a comprehensive examination.
NATIONALThe Senate Standing Committee on Inter-Provincial Coordination was told that security restrictions and inadequate facilities continue to impede tourism in Chitral. Lawmakers also raised concerns over poor internet access, weak healthcare services and limited tourist infrastructure.
CITYLahore’s traffic police have extended operating hours at all licensing offices from 8am to 12 midnight. Officials said the move is aimed at improving public facilitation and reducing congestion at centres across the city.
EnvironmentFaisalabad’s EPA has announced stricter action against plastic pollution, including a ban on plastic bags below 75 microns and plans for plastic-free zones in major markets. Officials say inspections, fines and confiscations have been stepped up across the district.
SportsPakistan spinner Usman Tariq has signed for Warwickshire Bears for the 2026 Vitality Blast. He is also set to play for Birmingham Phoenix in The Hundred after being picked for £140,000 in March.
MULTANPolice in Multan said a woman and her three children were murdered and the crime scene was staged to look like a suicide. The woman’s husband and his brother have been taken into custody for investigation.
