Laws & Taxes

The government has rejected petroleum dealers’ demand for monthly fuel price reviews, while the PPDA weighs a nationwide petrol pump shutdown over margin-related demands.

Non-filer content creators and social media influencers will pay a 10% withholding tax on social media earnings from July 1, 2026, while filers will face a 5% tax under FBR rules.

Petroleum dealers have issued a 72-hour ultimatum to the government, demanding an 8pc increase in their petrol sales margin and warning of an indefinite nationwide petrol pump shutdown from August 15 if their demands remain unresolved.

Pakistan, Saudi Arabia and Türkiye have signed the Makkah Joint Defence Agreement, strengthening collective security, defence cooperation and regional stability. The pact treats an armed attack on any one country as an attack on all three.

The PTA has capped the initial eSIM issuance fee at Rs1,500 and introduced free transfers between compatible devices for up to 10 migrations under a revised policy taking effect in mid-August 2026. The regulator is also working on digital SIM verification using facial and iris recognition technologies.

Global oil prices jumped more than 3% after reports that Iran is considering restrictions on US and Israeli vessels in the Strait of Hormuz, raising fears of supply disruptions. Renewed geopolitical tensions in the Middle East have increased uncertainty over global energy markets and crude oil supplies.

The federal government has reduced petrol by Rs3.19 per litre and high-speed diesel (HSD) by Rs1.50 per litre for August 7. The revised fuel prices, notified by OGRA, provide temporary relief to consumers and will remain effective until the next price review.

The federal government will construct two new underpasses and establish four Emergency 1122 service centres in Islamabad to improve traffic flow, emergency response, and public infrastructure. The projects form part of the CDA's broader plan to modernize the capital and enhance urban development.

Starting September 6, the Punjab Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) will prohibit businesses from charging customers for plastic bags. This mandate aims to stop retailers from profiting off plastic, which has discouraged the use of eco-friendly alternatives. While plastic bags must now be provided for free, businesses are still permitted to charge for reusable or recyclable non-plastic options. Violators face fines up to Rs50,000, potential store closures, and legal action.