Supporting Pakistani Manufacturers: Alibaba.com Joins "Made in Pakistan" Expo Lahore

                                               

Alibaba.com, a leading global B2B e-commerce platform, is slated to participate in the “Made in Pakistan” exhibition to be held at the Lahore International Expo Center from 24-25 June, in celebration of the immense talent and craftsmanship of sellers in Pakistan.

Pakistan has a rich heritage of skilled artisans, craftsmen and manufacturers, but industry events that showcase the country’s remarkable offerings to global buyers are scarce. The two-day "Made in Pakistan" Expo, organized by AB Community Entertainment, is an initiative that will bring together and shine a spotlight on a vibrant community of Pakistani sellers. It will feature an impressive range of products, services and innovations proudly produced in Pakistan.

As a B2B e-commerce player with a 40 million-strong community of global buyers, Alibaba.com recognizes the immense potential of Pakistan’s manufacturers and artisans, and is committed to raising their profile on the world stage by tapping the power of B2B e-commerce.

During the exhibition, sellers visiting the Alibaba.com showcase on-site will have access to personalized consultations with Alibaba.com experts to acquire knowledge of B2B e-commerce, as well as insights on how to kickstart their global export journey using the platform’s digital tools and value-added services.

Don’t miss the opportunity to celebrate Pakistan’s wealth of products and innovations as well as learn about Alibaba.com’s offerings at the “Made in Pakistan” Expo. Join us at the Lahore International Expo Center from 24-25 June at Booth G-4, Exhibition Hall 2 and embark on a potentially transformative journey that will redefine the possibilities for Pakistan's artisans and manufacturers. 

Infinix ranked #45 in Kantar BrandZ Top 50 Chinese Global Brand Builders of 2023!

           

Infinix has once again proven its worth in the global market, securing the 45th position in the prestigious Kantar BrandZ rankings for Top 50 Chinese Global Brand Builders of 2023. This remarkable achievement follows Infinix's recognition in 2022 as a Kantar BrandZ Rising Star among Chinese Global Brand Builders. Such consistent acknowledgment showcases the brand's continuous efforts in capturing the trust and loyalty of consumers, providing them with a strong sense of value associated with the Infinix brand.

"We are deeply honored to receive this recognition from Kantar BrandZ acknowledging our ability to create captivating and meaningful brand narratives that resonate with our global customer base. We extend our heartfelt gratitude to our dedicated fan base worldwide, who appreciate our commitment to empowering young individuals with innovative technology while embracing style and positivity." said Lake Hu, CMO at Infinix.

Building the Infinix Brand

Infinix has successfully expanded its presence across more than 70 global markets by offering high-quality products that combine exceptional performance and cutting-edge design. The brand has gained significant traction by introducing innovative technologies, such as the revolutionary 180W Thunder Charge featured in the ZERO ULTRA smartphone. By analyzing data from a comprehensive brand equity study involving millions of consumers and thousands of brands across various industries, Kantar BrandZ identifies and acknowledges the growth strategies of the most valuable brands worldwide. In 2022, Infinix received the distinction of a Rising Star among Chinese Global Brand Builders. This year's rankings reaffirm Infinix's remarkable progress, showcasing its evolution from a rising star to a globally influential brand, favored by young consumers worldwide.

Infinix remains steadfast in its commitment to foster a strong and distinctive brand identity that resonates with young individuals globally. Alongside this, the company empowers young consumers with innovative and top-of-the-line technology. This unwavering dedication has resulted in the establishment of a passionate and widespread fan base worldwide, cementing Infinix's position as a truly internationally recognized brand. Looking ahead, Infinix aims to further expand its global presence and evolve into a high-tech and trendsetting brand with significant global impact.

DW enters into MoU with RG&CC to promote Golf through a strategic alliance powered by VISA

           

The collaboration of Discount World with Rumanza Golf & Country Club (RG&CC) is aimed at facilitating the VISA premium card holders.

 Discount World (DW) on Tuesday signed a memorandum of understanding with the Rumanza Golf & Country Club (RG&CC), which is Asia’s largest 18-hole 72-par golf course with distinctive features that offer breath-taking views which are treat for both the eyes and the soul.

The alliance which is powered by VISA is one step forward aimed at facilitating the large consumer base of VISA premium card holders, and the initiative taken by Discount World to club with RG&CC could be termed as one essential move by those who possess the never-ending love for Golf.

DW’s strategic alliance will not only be a revolutionary move to promote Golf in the country, but will also facilitate the Golf players across the country to live their dream and excel on the lush green Golf field as a result of the alliance between the two organizations powered by VISA.

“We are extremely thrilled and delighted to partner with the picturesque Rumanza Golf Club, to promote Golf in Pakistan for the locals and tourists who will now have a chance to enjoy Golf with added benefits, as a result of their trust on VISA and being the loyal premium card holders. Today, it gives me great honor to represent Discount World (DW) which acts as the bridge between the beautiful Rumanza Golf Club and the enthusiasts of this sport of Golf, who will be served with added benefits.” said Sultan Richard, Chairman & CEO, DW.

The MoU was signed between Sultan Richard and RG&CC’s Project Sect) Col. Habib-ur-Rehman.

Welcoming the joint alliance powered by VISA, Rumanza Golf & Country Club’s (Project Sect) Col. Habib-ur-Rehman said, “It is a great privilege to tee off this partnership with Discount World which has been powered by VISA, this alliance will pave the ways for the people possessing the love for this sports, while also serving as an opportunity for their loved ones to experience a tranquil and serene view topped up with other facilities on offer ranging from savoring rich gourmet delicacies and regional treats to experience the thematic zones of RG&CC.”

CARETAKER CHIEF MINISTER PUNJAB ASSESSES PROGRESS AT CBD PUNJAB Quaid and Bab i pakistan PROJECT SITE

                                                

Caretaker Chief Minister Punjab, Syed Mohsin Raza Naqvi, visited Central Business District Punjab (CBD Punjab), project site to assess the progress of the development work for CBD Punjab phases 2,3 and Main Boulevard linkage to Bab E Pakistan, Walton Road, Lahore. During the visit, Caretaker Chief Minister Punjab was provided a comprehensive briefing by the CEO of CBD Punjab, Imran Amin, highlighting the significant advancements made in the project. Executive Director Technical CBD Punjab, Riaz Hussain, Project Director CBD Punjab, Asif Iqbal and senior officials of CBD Punjab were present during the briefing.

CBD Punjab has embarked on the development of phases 2 and 3, along with the establishment of a linkage between the Main Boulevard Lahore and Bab E Pakistan, Walton Road. Notably, CBD Punjab will construct flyovers at Ghora Chowk, Lahore, Walton Railway Crossing, and Bab-e-Pakistan, addressing key traffic congestion points.Construction of a  roundabout at Kalma Chowk has also been advised by CBD Punjab.

Expressing his vision for timely project completion, Caretaker Chief Minister Punjab emphasized the importance of providing maximum relief to the people. He directed the authorities to ensure that the newly constructed roads are wide enough to accommodate the increasing traffic load, a crucial consideration for enhancing transportation efficiency. 

CEO CBD Punjab, Mr. Imran Amin, expressed his commitment to delivering a state-of-the-art project. He reiterated CBD Punjab's commitment to delivering high-quality infrastructure projects that will greatly benefit the people of Punjab. 

The visit was attended by esteemed government officials, including the Chief Secretary Punjab, Secretary Planning, Commissioner Lahore/DG LDA, CCPO Lahore, CTO Lahore, Deputy Commissioner Lahore, and Chief Engineer LDA.

Talk of the town: Here's the smartphone everyone's talking about

                                                  

Currently, there's one device that has captured the attention and sparked conversations everywhere i.e. Infinix SMART 7. As expert’s analyze this newest addition of smartphone, SMART 7 stands out for its unparalleled entertainment experience that has been making everyone excited.

Let’s have a glimpse of what tech experts have to say about Infinix SMART 7 series:
Hateem Tech News: ‘’The extended RAM is a total game-changer. I can use multiple applications at once and my phone will not slow down or even lag. It is also a bit surprising for me to find the extended RAM option in this price category of smartphones’’

Najaf Technical: "I was pleasantly surprised by the Infinix SMART 7's sunlight readable display. It makes a significant difference, especially when using the phone outdoors. The colors are vibrant, and the clarity is impressive"
Urdu point expressed their feedback saying, ‘’Infinix has really hit the sweet spot with the SMART 7's pricing. At just below Rs 35,000, it’s a great value for money phone, considering the features it brings to the table’’
Tech Craze highlighted, ‘’The sunlight readable feature is great for those who spend a lot of time outdoors. The colors are vibrant, and the clarity is remarkable. It's a great companion for media consumption on the go’’
These positive reviews from tech experts further solidify the SMART 7's position as best entertainment smartphone available. With a 7GB extended RAM enabling seamless multitasking, a large 6.6’’ HD+ sunlight readable display, and a massive 5000mAh battery are all the necessary ingredients for a power packed entertainment experience. A cherry on the top is the price tag of these smartphone i.e SMART 7 is available for Rs 27,999  whereas the SMART 7 HD for Rs 23,999.

So, If you're looking for a smartphone that serves as a complete entertainment package look no further than the Infinix SMART7 series available online on Xpark and also on outlets nationwide!

ACCA proposes budget measures for tax year 2023-24 to address Pakistan's economic challenges

          

ACCA (the Association of Chartered Certified Accountants) has unveiled its budget proposals for the fiscal year 2023-24, highlighting the need for significant shifts in Pakistan's economic policies to tackle pressing challenges. The proposals aim to address issues such as population growth, climate change, agricultural disincentives, and food security concerns.

ACCA emphasises that to keep policies and their implementation consistent, the government, political parties, and business groups should sign a ‘charter of the economy’ for the next 10-15 years. This long-term commitment will provide stability and foster sustainable economic growth.

The budget proposals suggest a multi-faceted approach to improving the balance of payments, reducing imports, boosting local consumption, lowering inflation, and increasing exports. ACCA underscores the importance of consistent economic policies, leveraging indigenous resources and talent, and embracing a new economic model.

In line with these objectives, ACCA recommends sustainable reduction of non-essential imports and identifying import substitutes to lower the import bill. Efforts to promote eco-friendly energy sources, implement daylight savings, and reduce business hours and working days can help decrease reliance on oil and gas imports.

To enhance exports, ACCA emphasises the need to focus on services that leverage Pakistan's abundant raw materials and skilled youth. Shifting the tax burden to higher-income individuals and subsidising the cost of living for middle and lower-income segments are proposed to ensure equitable taxation policies.

ACCA calls for significant strides in the documentation of the economy to expand the taxpayer base. Leveraging technologies such as Artificial Intelligence and data analytics, the global body recommends identifying individuals living beyond their declared means and businesses making misdeclarations to bring them into the tax net.

Structural reforms, including reduced tax rates and simplified compliance processes, can make tax evasion less attractive and improve the efficiency of the taxation system. ACCA proposes minimal tax rates for large agricultural landowners, with generated revenue used to subsidise essential farming needs for small farmers.

To facilitate economic recovery, ACCA suggests incentivising local industry, manufacturing, and mining while revising costly agreements in the energy sector. Investment in green energy projects, encouraging the use of domestic products, and promoting entrepreneurship through the banking sector are also highlighted as key strategies.ACCA underscores the growth potential of Pakistan's IT/ITeS sector and calls for favorable policies, tax rebates, and investment in high-skill training to unleash its full potential. ACCA also recommends expanding the tax net by bringing professionals such as doctors, accountants, engineers, lawyers, and architects into the tax system.

Furthermore, ACCA proposes the establishment of a venture capital fund to support Pakistani start-ups, subsidies for solar panels, and prioritisation of the livestock sector in the upcoming budget.

ACCA's Global Tenets of Taxation serve as a guiding framework to establish public trust and an effective taxation system. The accountancy body emphasises the importance of openness, transparency, simplicity, and certainty in tax legislation and operations.ACCA believes that by implementing these budget proposals, Pakistan can pave the way for sustainable economic growth, address unemployment challenges, and position itself as a regional powerhouse.

TCL Electronics Unveils Latest Range of Mini LED TV, QLED TVs, and Smart Home Appliances in the UAE

                                              

TCL, the world's TOP 2 TV brand and TOP 1 98-inch TV brand, today unveiled its latest multi-category products for the Middle East and Africa (MEA) market at an exclusive launch event in Dubai. TCL also announced its partnership with Arsenal Football Club as the Official Regional Consumer Electronics Partner of the Club, with the event being highlighted by a special appearance by Arsenal Legend, Robert Pires.

From stunning picture quality with its 2023 C Series Mini LED and QLED TVs and an exciting range of upgraded domestic appliances and air conditioners to enable a healthier and more convenient lifestyle, TCL’s latest product line-up underscores its commitment to bringing customers in the region the very best in technological innovation

A pioneer and a leader of Mini LED technology, TCL proudly introduced its latest generation technology, to audiences in MEA. The C845 is the newest addition to TCL’s Mini LED TV line-up, with more local dimming zones at work providing infinite contrast dimensions, high efficiency, and wide luminous angle Mini LEDs to achieve the highest brightness levels to date of HDR 2000 nits available in 55’’, 65’’, 75’’, and 85’’ models and backed by AiPQ Processor 3.0, the TCL C845 delivers outstanding picture quality combined with unparalleled sound thanks to Dolby Vision IQ & Dolby Atmos.

 

Countless Colors and Endless Entertainment with All-New C745 & C645 QLED TVs

 

For gamers, TCL introduced its new TCL C745 which combines QLED with Full Array Local Dimming technology, 4K HDR and industry leading refresh rate of 144Hz VRR and a 240Hz Game Accelerator for smooth, sharp and colorful HDR picture quality.  The new TCL C645 is equipped with TCL QLED technology for outstanding color expression, certified with Dolby Vision and Dolby Atmos and packed with a 120 HZ Game Accelerator, making it an excellent value option for those who seek high-quality and interactive home entertainment experiences.

Enhanced Domestic Appliances for a Healthier, More Convenient Lifestyle

 

TCL also launched a suite of new products for the home with the aim of enabling a seamless and healthy connected lifestyle. The brand shared updates on Air Conditioners, with its innovative Gentle Cool series with its new sleek, minimalist, easy-to-clean design. TCL also introduced its latest refrigerator and washing machine offerings to its consumers to help them live healthier and convenient lives.

 

Commenting on the new launch, Ms. Sunny Yang, General Manager of TCL MEA, said, “We are delighted to introduce TCL’s latest generation of Mini LED and QLED TVs in the Middle East and Africa market. Our purpose is to serve our evolving consumers’ needs and offer the latest cutting edge technology to give  a premium, exceptional entertainment experience for them. We also look forward to showcasing our latest offerings in home appliances that will make lives easier.”

"TCL's growth in the MEA region has been truly remarkable over the past year." Mohammed Minhajuddin, Senior Marketing Manager of TCL MEA, stated, "We are expanding our TV portfolio in the MEA region offering more choices to customize with the technology matching their requirements and interests. The quality of our products speaks for itself as they have played a vital role in propelling our ambitions for the future even further."

These fresh offerings align closely with TCL's brand signature "Inspire Greatness," which not only conveys the brand's current corporate message but also embodies TCL's assurance and aspiration to

offer global consumers values that motivate and enable them to strive for excellence in all aspects of their lives, surpassing mere product offerings.

 

Igniting Passion in Sports; TCL Highlights New Sponsorships for the MEA Market

 

TCL has long been a champion of sports, making it an integral part of its global strategy as it aims to strengthen its influence around the world. In the MEA Market, TCL unveiled its partnership with one of the most iconic football clubs in the world – Arsenal FC, as its Official Regional Consumer Electronics Partner.

 

In addition to this, TCL expanded its cricket portfolio in the region with partnerships with the Abu Dhabi Knight Riders, Peshawar Zalmi and Pakistan Cricket Team. Globally, TCL has set up a number of well-established partnerships with some of the world’s leading football teams, including the Spanish and Italian national teams and is an official partner of the most popular sport’s league in the US, the NFL.

Through this ambitious sponsorship pipeline, TCL hopes to further demonstrate its commitment to Asia Pacific, offering customers in the region access to the latest and greatest innovations and experiences.