South Asia Times

Economy & Trade

While headlines highlight a tax gap, updated fiscal targets show FBR is largely on track.

Tax Targets: Looking Beyond the Headlines

SAT Commentary June 1, 2026

Pakistan ranks 16th in global talent index

The Sleeping Giant Awakes: Why Pakistan is the New Global Tech Darling

SAT Commentary April 29, 2026

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The Double Jeopardy of Pakistan’s Transport Sector

Dr Muhammad Mehboob Hassan Khan April 10, 2026

Examining how the China–Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) is transforming Pakistan from an infrastructure-dependent economy into a regional hub for modern manufacturing, industrialization, and blue-economy growth through strategic Chinese partnerships.

CPEC 2.0 and Pakistan’s Journey Toward Industrialization and Maritime Growth

SAT Commentary January 30, 2026

The EU–India FTA reveals a deep structural asymmetry, exposing Indian industry to European dominance while reinforcing dependency through tariffs, CBAM, and non-tariff barriers.

The Asymmetry at the Heart of the EU–India FTA

SAT Commentary January 28, 2026

EU–Pakistan Business Forum 2026 signals a shift from GSP+ trade reliance to an investment-led, sustainable partnership under EU Global Gateway.

EU–Pakistan Business Forum 2026

SAT Commentary January 20, 2026

Afghanistan’s post-2021 economy has shifted toward informality, coercive revenue, and regional trade, shaped by isolation, sanctions, and political risk.

Afghanistan’s Post-2021 Economic Model

SAT Editorial Desk January 20, 2026

Pakistan’s IT sector and Digital Nation Act 2025 offer a scalable path to break the current account deficit and escape chronic economic volatility.

Pakistan’s Digital Escape Route

SAT Commentary January 2, 2026

Afghanistan’s Trade Boycott: Strategic Miscalculation With Fiscal Consequences

Afghanistan’s Trade Boycott: Strategic Miscalculation With Fiscal Consequences

Semavia Ishtiaq December 11, 2025