Latest news with #AamirIbrahim
Arab News
10-07-2025
- Business
- Arab News
Pakistan launches location-based SMS alerts to warn millions amid deadly monsoon floods
ISLAMABAD: Pakistan has launched a location-based SMS alert system to warn citizens in flood-prone areas of imminent weather threats, state media reported on Thursday, as the country grapples with deadly monsoon rains. The system, developed under the Disaster Early Warning System (DEW-3 – Monsoon), is a collaboration between the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) and Jazz, Pakistan's largest digital telecom operator. It uses geo-fencing technology to deliver real-time alerts to millions of mobile users living in high-risk zones, enabling timely evacuations or precautionary action. The move comes as torrential rains continue to batter parts of Pakistan, with over 80 killed since the start of the monsoon season in June. Over 23 million Jazz subscribers live in areas identified by the NDMA as vulnerable to flooding and other climate-related disasters. 'This is a powerful demonstration of how public-private collaboration can leverage technology to protect lives and strengthen communities,' Aamir Ibrahim, CEO of Jazz, was quoted as saying in the APP statement. 'Our [Jazz] nationwide reach and location-based capabilities make us uniquely positioned to support NDMA in its mission to minimize disaster-related risks. As the monsoon season continues, this remains an ongoing effort aimed at reaching and protecting even more people in harm's way.' According to APP, the system sends out targeted SMS alerts using advanced geo-fencing techniques to people located directly within affected areas. These messages include clear, actionable instructions to help the public respond effectively to natural disasters. NDMA acknowledged the partnership with Jazz, 'which has enabled them to reach vulnerable populations quickly and effectively, using geo-fenced alerts to ensure no one is left uninformed in times of crisis,' APP reported. The partnership was formalized in March 2025 to enhance Pakistan's disaster preparedness using digital infrastructure. The system is designed to be scalable and responsive as weather patterns shift or new emergency zones emerge. NDMA officials say the alerts are part of a wider effort to modernize disaster response by integrating digital tools and expanding risk communication channels. The authority also disseminates information through the Pak NDMA Disaster Alert mobile app, social media, and mainstream news outlets. Pakistan has faced increasingly severe climate-related disasters in recent years, from catastrophic floods in 2022 to recurring heatwaves and droughts. The country ranks among the top ten nations most vulnerable to climate change, according to the Global Climate Risk Index, underscoring the urgent need for improved early warning and resilience systems.
Business Recorder
10-07-2025
- Climate
- Business Recorder
Monsoon floods: Jazz, NDMA collaborate to issue geo-fenced SMS alerts
ISLAMABAD: In response to the ongoing monsoon floods affecting parts of the country, Jazz and the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) have successfully collaborated to deliver geo-fenced SMS alerts to millions of at-risk citizens. The alerts, triggered under the Disaster Early Warning System (DEW-3 – Monsoon), are designed to enhance public awareness and enable timely evacuation or precautionary measures in flood-prone areas. More than 23 million Jazz users live in regions identified as vulnerable by NDMA, making them the first in need of immediate, location-based risk communication. The initiative ensures that these individuals receive timely, targeted messages alerting them to impending threats, helping mitigate the impact of natural disasters, and potentially saving lives. Through partnership, NDMA and Jazz enhance the dissemination of timely information and alerts to vulnerable communities residing in high-temperature zones during heatwave periods. Aamir Ibrahim, CEO Jazz, said, 'This is a powerful demonstration of how public-private collaboration can leverage technology to protect lives and strengthen communities. Our nationwide reach and location-based capabilities make us uniquely positioned to support NDMA in its mission to minimize disaster-related risks. As the monsoon season continues, this remains an ongoing effort aimed at reaching and protecting even more people in harm's way.' Team NDMA recognised the partnership with Jazz, which has enabled them to reach vulnerable populations quickly and effectively, using geo-fenced alerts to ensure no one is left uninformed in times of crisis. At the same time, effective mainstream media, social and digital media, and tools like the Pak NDMA Disaster Alert mobile app help the public stay updated on weather patterns and advisories, reinforcing a broader commitment to risk communication and disaster preparedness. Jazz and NDMA formalised their partnership in March 2025 to enhance Pakistan's disaster preparedness and response capabilities through the use of advanced digital tools and communications infrastructure. The SMS alerts were delivered using advanced geo-fencing techniques, allowing NDMA to reach people directly in affected zones with clear, actionable information. These efforts form part of Jazz's broader strategy to support disaster preparedness and response through the power of technology. The system is designed to be scalable and responsive, ensuring rapid outreach as new risk zones emerge. Copyright Business Recorder, 2025
Business Recorder
12-06-2025
- Business
- Business Recorder
Pakistan govt's budget steps may hinder cashless economy drive: TOAP
ISLAMABAD: As the government unveils a raft of new taxes on digital transactions and e-commerce in the federal budget, Aamir Ibrahim, chairman Telecom Operators Association of Pakistan voiced both hope and concern, warning that the measures could slow Pakistan's journey toward a cashless economy. Industry leaders, trade bodies, and associations also expressed concerns that the budget missed an important opportunity to mandate digital payment options across retail. They pointed out that many major retailers still refuse to accept digital payments in order to hide real income and evade taxes, indicating that enforcement against such practices remains insufficient. This gap, they argued, allows tax evasion to persist and undermines efforts to bring more transactions into the formal, documented economy. The Overseas Investors Chamber of Commerce and Industry (OICCI) also criticised the government for missing a crucial opportunity to broaden the tax base and document the country's vast Rs9 trillion cash-based informal economy. In a statement, the OICCI noted that while measures like the nationwide rollout of e-invoicing and expansion of POS systems are positive steps; the absence of a concrete strategy to address the informal sector and rationalise tax structures undermines efforts to create a more investment-friendly environment and advance economic formalisation. 'The budget aims to formalise online trade through digital integration and tax measures, which is a plus,' said Aamir. 'However, complexity in tax collection, the 5% levy on digital transactions with foreign vendors, and additional taxes charged by payment intermediaries risk increasing costs and discouraging digital adoption. Making digital payments more prevalent, easier, and affordable is essential for Pakistan's growth and for documenting the economy. Let's ensure policies support a truly digital Pakistan, driving transparency and compliance without undue burdens.' The new Finance Bill introduces taxes on both local and foreign e-commerce marketplaces, making online shopping costlier for Pakistani consumers. Notably, a five per cent tax will be imposed on goods purchased from foreign online marketplaces such as AliExpress and Amazon, collected by banks and payment gateways at the point of transaction. Meanwhile, local digital payments will face a tiered tax structure, ranging from one per cent to two per cent depending on the transaction amount, and courier companies will collect taxes on cash-on-delivery payments. Banks and courier services have been designated as withholding agents, required to collect and remit these taxes, and file detailed statements on all digital transactions. Online marketplaces must also ensure that all vendors are registered for sales tax, tightening compliance across the sector. Aamir acknowledged the government's intent to bring more online activity into the formal economy but cautioned that the added complexity and cost could push some businesses and consumers back toward cash and informal channels. 'We need to strike a balance between expanding the tax net and fostering digital inclusion. If digital transactions become more expensive or cumbersome, we risk undermining the very progress we've made in financial inclusion and digital transformation.' He urged policymakers to revisit the proposed levies and streamline tax collection, so that Pakistan's vision of a cashless, digitally empowered society remains within reach. 'There is still time to fix anomalies in the new budget. Let's make sure that our policies truly support a digital Pakistan, rather than create new barriers to adoption.' Copyright Business Recorder, 2025
Business Recorder
12-06-2025
- Business
- Business Recorder
Budget steps may hinder cashless economy drive: TOAP
ISLAMABAD: As the government unveils a raft of new taxes on digital transactions and e-commerce in the federal budget, Aamir Ibrahim, chairman Telecom Operators Association of Pakistan voiced both hope and concern, warning that the measures could slow Pakistan's journey toward a cashless economy. Industry leaders, trade bodies, and associations also expressed concerns that the budget missed an important opportunity to mandate digital payment options across retail. They pointed out that many major retailers still refuse to accept digital payments in order to hide real income and evade taxes, indicating that enforcement against such practices remains insufficient. This gap, they argued, allows tax evasion to persist and undermines efforts to bring more transactions into the formal, documented economy. The Overseas Investors Chamber of Commerce and Industry (OICCI) also criticised the government for missing a crucial opportunity to broaden the tax base and document the country's vast Rs9 trillion cash-based informal economy. In a statement, the OICCI noted that while measures like the nationwide rollout of e-invoicing and expansion of POS systems are positive steps; the absence of a concrete strategy to address the informal sector and rationalise tax structures undermines efforts to create a more investment-friendly environment and advance economic formalisation. 'The budget aims to formalise online trade through digital integration and tax measures, which is a plus,' said Aamir. 'However, complexity in tax collection, the 5% levy on digital transactions with foreign vendors, and additional taxes charged by payment intermediaries risk increasing costs and discouraging digital adoption. Making digital payments more prevalent, easier, and affordable is essential for Pakistan's growth and for documenting the economy. Let's ensure policies support a truly digital Pakistan, driving transparency and compliance without undue burdens.' The new Finance Bill introduces taxes on both local and foreign e-commerce marketplaces, making online shopping costlier for Pakistani consumers. Notably, a five per cent tax will be imposed on goods purchased from foreign online marketplaces such as AliExpress and Amazon, collected by banks and payment gateways at the point of transaction. Meanwhile, local digital payments will face a tiered tax structure, ranging from one per cent to two per cent depending on the transaction amount, and courier companies will collect taxes on cash-on-delivery payments. Banks and courier services have been designated as withholding agents, required to collect and remit these taxes, and file detailed statements on all digital transactions. Online marketplaces must also ensure that all vendors are registered for sales tax, tightening compliance across the sector. Aamir acknowledged the government's intent to bring more online activity into the formal economy but cautioned that the added complexity and cost could push some businesses and consumers back toward cash and informal channels. 'We need to strike a balance between expanding the tax net and fostering digital inclusion. If digital transactions become more expensive or cumbersome, we risk undermining the very progress we've made in financial inclusion and digital transformation.' He urged policymakers to revisit the proposed levies and streamline tax collection, so that Pakistan's vision of a cashless, digitally empowered society remains within reach. 'There is still time to fix anomalies in the new budget. Let's make sure that our policies truly support a digital Pakistan, rather than create new barriers to adoption.' Copyright Business Recorder, 2025
Business Recorder
05-06-2025
- Business
- Business Recorder
Pakistan telecom sector seeks sales tax reduction on services
ISLAMABAD: Telecom sector has proposed the government to reduce sales tax on telecom services from the current 19.5 percent - highest compared to other sectors to 16 percent in the upcoming budget 2025-26, besides harmonise across the country whereby all provinces and federal capital should have same rate. IT and Telecom sector submitted the budget proposals to the government which also proposed Advance tax may be reinstated to improve the purchasing power of customers as majority of the customers are below taxable limit. The sector proposed abolishment of advance income tax at 10% under Section 236A of ITO 2001 on auction of new or renewal of Telecom licenses, while justifying that Advance tax on auction of license inflates the cost of doing business and cost of capital for telecom sector, hindering 4G/5G and rural expansion. The proposals maintained that Cellular Mobile Operators are subject to deduction/collection of withholding of income tax on large number of transactions e.g. electricity bills of cell sites which are thousands in numbers as a result this increases the cost and complexity in compliance and an additional administrative burden for the telecom sector. Verification of claim of this tax collection on bills by tax authorities is also not possible and can save authorities from operational burden. Further, withholding tax deducted from telecom services is treated as minimum tax which is against the principle of taxation as this is payable even in loss making years. Further, current recovery measures are very harsh creating business disruptions and shaking taxpayers' confidence. The sector proposed the exemption from deduction/collection of withholding taxes by adding a clause in 2nd Schedule of ITO 2001. In case of acceptance of this, proposals mentioned at point b and c below will be redundant. They further proposed that withholding tax on telecom services at 4% u/s 153 to be adjustable instead of minimum tax. The shift from an adjustable income tax to a minimum tax has effectively reclassified income tax from a direct tax to an indirect tax. This is because the amount of tax payable is no longer tied to the actual income earned, but rather a fixed charge that applies uniformly, irrespective of the company's profitability. The sector proposed for increase carry forward period of minimum tax credit u/s 113 from 3 years to 5 years and bring it back to the position prior to Finance Act 2024. Pay back period of telecom sector is very slow and it takes longer time to recover the return on investment ranging from 8 to 10 years. So limiting the credit to 3 years is not sustainable for loss making companies, they added. The proposal also included removal of the regulatory duty rates on telecom power equipment which are not locally manufactured. Moreover, telecom services sector should be exclude from retail price list because they don't import the goods for direct sale. Aamir Ibrahim, CEO Jazz and Chairman Telecom Operators Association said that over-taxation of telecom not only hurts affordability for consumers, it also weakens investor confidence in a sector that requires constant innovation and infrastructure upgrades. Overburdening telecom sector with excessive taxation is not just economically counterproductive — it's socially regressive. We must recognise telecom as the digital backbone of every other sector and treat it as such in our fiscal policies,' said CEO Jazz while talking to this correspondent. Talking about the role of telecom in the country' digital future he said that connectivity today is as essential as roads and power grids. 'Telecom is the infrastructure that powers e-commerce, mobile banking, online learning, telehealth, and even public service delivery. Yet, we continue to treat it as a revenue stream instead of a strategic enabler. If we are serious about building a future-ready Pakistan, we need to start seeing telecom as a development multiplier, not a luxury,' he added. He further said that Pakistan's tax burden is disproportionately carried by a narrow group of compliant individuals and industries. To build a sustainable digital economy, we need to widen the tax net—bringing more participants into the formal economy — rather than repeatedly taxing those who are already contributing. Placing additional pressure on the formal, documented sectors, especially one as foundational as telecom, only discourages investment, slows innovation, and undermines long-term growth, he added. Ibrahim said that every tax on telecom is effectively a tax on opportunity. Whether it's a student in rural Balochistan attending a virtual class or a woman entrepreneur using mobile payments to grow her home business, digital access is a lifeline. A more forward-looking fiscal policy would reduce barriers to connectivity, making digital inclusion a reality for all Pakistanis. 'Telecom is not a luxury — it is a critical utility, much like electricity or clean water. It enables students to learn, entrepreneurs to sell, farmers to access market information, and patients to receive remote healthcare. Overburdening this sector with excessive taxation is not just economically counterproductive — it's socially regressive. We must recognize telecom as the digital backbone of every other sector and treat it as such in our fiscal policies', CEO Jazz added. Ibrahim further said that over-taxation of telecom not only hurts affordability for consumers, it also weakens investor confidence in a sector that requires constant innovation and infrastructure upgrades. A rationalized tax regime, coupled with efforts to document the informal economy, would yield more sustainable revenues for the state without compromising the growth of the digital ecosystem. Copyright Business Recorder, 2025
