While the company’s withdrawal may seem abrupt, it is the result of mounting pressures – both internal and external – that eroded its once-thriving business in Pakistan.
Despite billions invested in reconstruction and ongoing government promises, thousands still reside in temporary shelters, and numerous public buildings, particularly schools and hospitals, remain unrebuilt.
The increase is driven by militant attacks and intensified counter-terrorism operations, particularly in the provinces of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP) and Balochistan.
Finalized in mid-2025 after extensive talks between Pakistan’s SIFC and US agencies, the deal supports Washington’s strategy to diversify critical mineral supply chains and reduce reliance on China.
With each mother who learns to cook a new, nutritious meal, and each spoonful of semolina porridge lovingly fed to a child, the cycle of poverty and poor health begins to break.
Recent tariff negotiations have also strengthened Pakistan’s position. Islamabad successfully reduced US reciprocal tariffs from 29 per cent to 19 per cent, a move projected to enhance access to US markets.
In a move signalling a profound shift in Pakistan’s infrastructure financing and geopolitical posture, China has withdrawn from financing the pivotal Main Line-1 (ML-1) railway project, a cornerstone of the China–Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC)
While a single monthly reading above 6 per cent does not constitute a formal policy failure, the persistent upward trajectory since early 2026 leaves monetary authorities with little room to manoeuvre.
The authors stress that individual knowledge alone is insufficient. Food environments – marketing, pricing, availability and access – must support healthier choices.
While a single monthly reading above 6 per cent does not constitute a formal policy failure, the persistent upward trajectory since early 2026 leaves monetary authorities with little room to manoeuvre.