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Author: News Desk

  • US, China in tit-for-tat port fee battle amid rising trade tensions

    US, China in tit-for-tat port fee battle amid rising trade tensions

    The United States of America and China have began imposing additional port fees on shipping companies on Tuesday, escalating trade tensions between the world’s two largest economies, Reuters has reported. 

    The new fees targets vessels that transport goods ranging from crude oil to holiday toys, turning maritime trade into a new front in the ongoing economic rivalry.

    According to Chinese state broadcaster CCTV, Beijing has started collecting special charges on U.S.-owned, operated, built, or flagged vessels. However, ships built in China will not face these levies. Exemptions also cover empty vessels entering Chinese shipyards for repair. The new Chinese fees will apply either at the first port of entry on a voyage or for the first five voyages within a year, following an annual billing cycle that starts on April 17.

    Earlier this year, U.S. President Donald Trump’s administration announced similar port fees on China-linked vessels to reduce China’s dominance in global shipping and strengthen American shipbuilding. The U.S. decision followed an investigation during former President Joe Biden’s term that accused China of using unfair trade practices to control the maritime and logistics sectors.

    China responded by introducing its own port fees on U.S.-linked ships, effective the same day as the American charges. Analysts expect Chinese shipping giant COSCO to be the most affected, likely bearing nearly half of an estimated $3.2 billion in related costs by 2026.

    Beijing also imposed sanctions on five U.S.-linked subsidiaries of South Korean shipbuilder Hanwha Ocean, accusing them of assisting a U.S. investigation into Chinese trade practices. Additionally, China launched an internal probe into how the U.S. measures have impacted its shipping and shipbuilding industries.

    “This tit-for-tat symmetry locks both economies into a spiral of maritime taxation that risks distorting global freight flows,” Athens-based Xclusiv Shipbrokers Inc said in a research note cited by Reuters.

    A Shanghai-based trade consultant said the new charges may not heavily disrupt the industry and that any increased costs would likely be passed on through higher prices. “What are we going to do? Stop shipping? Trade is already disrupted, but companies are finding a way,” the consultant said.

    The U.S. later announced a temporary exemption for long-term charterers of China-operated vessels carrying U.S. ethane and LPG, delaying the fees until December 10. Still, ship-tracking firm Vortexa said 45 large gas carriers—about 11% of the global fleet—remain subject to China’s new port fees.

    Clarksons Research estimated that the measures could affect oil tankers covering 15% of global capacity, while Jefferies analyst Omar Nokta said 13% of crude tankers and 11% of container ships worldwide could be impacted.

    In a separate move, President Trump threatened to impose 100% tariffs on Chinese goods and new export controls on critical software by November 1 in retaliation for China’s restrictions on mineral exports. U.S. officials also warned that countries supporting a United Nations plan to cut shipping emissions could face sanctions or port restrictions.

    Xclusiv noted that these moves show how global shipping has shifted from a neutral part of trade to a tool of political power.

    Meanwhile, shares of Shanghai-listed COSCO rose more than 2 percent on Tuesday. The company said its board had approved a plan to repurchase up to 1.5 billion yuan ($210 million) of its shares within three months to protect shareholder interests. COSCO did not respond to Reuters’ request for comment on the new fees.

  • Ducky Bhai’s wife Aroob Jatoi removes most Instagram posts, sparking speculation

    Ducky Bhai’s wife Aroob Jatoi removes most Instagram posts, sparking speculation

    Aroob Jatoi, the wife of popular Pakistani YouTuber Saad ur Rehman, widely known as Ducky Bhai, has deleted nearly all her Instagram posts, sparking widespread speculation on social media.

    As per the details, only two posts now remain on her profile, both featuring her husband who is currently under arrest in a gambling-related case.

    One of the remaining posts shows the couple standing before the Holy Kaaba in Makkah. The caption, which was edited three days ago, reads, “We stood before Allah in Makkah with hearts full of dreams. Now I stand alone, but I know He’s still writing our story. I’m waiting, with sabr and du’a.”

    The second post features images from the couple’s nikkah and engagement ceremony. In an emotional caption, Jatoi wrote, “The world keeps moving, but my heart is stuck in this moment. I miss you more than words can ever say. Come home soon.”

    While fans and followers have flooded the comment section with prayers and messages of support, calling for Ducky Bhai’s immediate release and an end to his legal troubles, her sudden deletion of most posts has also stirred speculation – with some social media users suggesting that the move may have been prompted by broader concerns facing social media influencers in Pakistan.

    In recent months, Pakistan’s Federal Board of Revenue (FBR) has launched a crackdown on social media personalities and celebrities who flaunt lavish lifestyles online. As part of this initiative, the FBR has established a “Lifestyle Monitoring Cell” tasked with comparing public social media posts to declared income and tax filings. The initiative aims to uncover potential cases of tax evasion and financial misrepresentation.

    The monitoring cell has reportedly identified over 100,000 individuals whose online presence suggests a lifestyle inconsistent with their declared earnings. While tax audits and legal notices have been issued to several influencers and business figures in the past, there is currently no public evidence that Aroob Jatoi or Ducky Bhai have been directly targeted in this probe.

    Nevertheless, the timing of Jatoi’s Instagram purge has led many to question whether the move was a precautionary measure amid rising scrutiny of influencers and celebrities across Pakistan.

    Her actions also appear to be a response to the National Cyber Crime Investigation Agency’s (NCCIA) case against Ducky for promoting gambling applications on his social media platforms. The NCCIA filed charges against him under various sections of the Prevention of Electronic Crimes Act, 2016 — including Section 13 (Electronic Forgery), Section 14 (Electronic Fraud), Section 25 (Spamming), and Section 26 (Spoofing). Additionally, he was charged under Sections 294-B (Offering prize in connection with trade) and 420 (Cheating and dishonestly inducing delivery of property) of the Pakistan Penal Code for endorsing banned gambling apps.

  • ‘PSL operations face slowdown; delay in team valuation, lack of communication worries franchises,’ reports say

    ‘PSL operations face slowdown; delay in team valuation, lack of communication worries franchises,’ reports say

    The Pakistan Super League (PSL) is struggling with slow progress in several key areas despite being placed under the supervision of Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Salman Naseer, reports have claimed.

    According to reports, the league’s operations are moving at a sluggish pace and franchise officials have expressed concern over the lack of communication from the management.

    Reports indicate that the valuation process has dragged on, delaying the renewal of contracts with existing franchises. An audit firm reached out to the teams for required information, which they have already provided. However, the progress has stalled.

    Work on adding two new franchises has also not started, and the proposed model for their inclusion remains undecided. Initially, the PCB considered holding the eleventh edition at the end of this year, but later shifted the plan to April–May next year. Even so, no final decision has been announced.

    Financial matters remain unresolved as accounts for the tenth edition have not been finalised and several key stakeholders have not yet completed their payments.

    Reports also note that negotiations for a 10-year title sponsorship extension, ground sponsorship categories, domestic and international broadcast rights, live streaming and production contracts have not begun.

    Reports claimed that CEO Naseer continues to focus on broader PCB duties and has remained active in his role with the Asian Cricket Council (ACC). They also point out that he has not yet built a dedicated PSL management team.

    One female staff member, initially hired temporarily before the tenth edition, was made permanent, but her role and impact have also reportedly raised questions.

    When contacted directly and through the PCB media department regarding the reasons for the delays, new team additions, and contract renewals, reports said, Naseer promised to respond but has not done so despite the passage of several days.

  • ‘Genuine man of peace’: Internet reacts to Shehbaz-Trump bromance

    ‘Genuine man of peace’: Internet reacts to Shehbaz-Trump bromance

    Prime Minister (PM) Shehbaz Sharif has said United States (US) President Donald Trump is a “genuine man of peace” who worked relentlessly to end the war in Gaza among other global conflicts.

    Addressing a presser at the international Gaza peace summit in Egypt’s Sharm el-Sheikh, PM Shehbaz said the world was witnessing “one of the greatest days in contemporary history” as global leaders gathered to sign the historic agreement that enabled ceasefire in the troubled region last week.

    Ahead of the signing, Hamas freed the last living Israeli hostages from Gaza under the deal, and Israel sent home busloads of Palestinian detainees. The ceasefire and partial Israeli withdrawal halted one of Israel’s biggest offensives of the war, an all-out assault on Gaza City that was killing scores of people every day.

    During his address, the premier said that peace had been achieved after months of tireless diplomatic efforts led by President Trump, who has made the world “a place to live with peace and prosperity”.

    He said that Pakistan had earlier nominated Trump for the Nobel Peace Prize for his “outstanding and extraordinary contributions” in halting a potential war between Pakistan and India, and securing a ceasefire.

    “Today, again, I would like to [re-]nominate this great president [Trump] for the Nobel Peace Prize because I genuinely feel that he’s the most deserving candidate,” PM Shehbaz said, adding that the US president had brought peace not only to South Asia, but also to the Middle East.

    The premier hailed Trump as “the man the world needed most at this point in time” and said that history would remember him as the leader who “stopped seven and today, eight wars.”

    Touched by PM Shehbaz’s words, the US president, taking over the presser, said that he did not expect such high praise for his efforts towards peace in the region. He also said “everyone should go home” as he himself could not add anything after Shehbaz’s speech.

    Earlier, Trump thanked PM Shehbaz for his cooperation and said that his “favourite” Field Marshal Asim Munir was not present today but maybe the premier could convey his praise.


    With several videos of the interaction going viral, social media users had a field day commenting on them.

    While some chose to crack jokes…

    …others had a much different reaction:

    Separately, the premier spoke of Pakistan’s “most important priority”, which he said was the immediate cessation of the genocidal campaign imposed on Gaza.

    “As I board the plane to return home after the Gaza Peace Summit in Sharm El Sheikh, I want to share some reflections on the potentially transformational nature of what took place and why Pakistan has been so deeply involved,” the premier said in a post on X Tuesday.

    “The most important priority for Pakistan was the immediate cessation of the genocidal campaign imposed on Gaza. Along with other brotherly nations, this priority was stated and reinforced consistently. Our gratitude to President Trump is anchored in him promising that he would make it stop, and delivering on that promise.”

    He added that the country would continue to express its admiration for President Trump’s unique contribution to peace.

    “The Palestinian people’s freedom, dignity and prosperity remain a primary concern for Pakistan. InshaAllah, the establishment of a strong and viable Palestinian state with pre-1967 borders and Al Quds Al Sharif as its capital remains the bedrock of Pakistan’s Middle East policy and will remain so,” PM Shehbaz said.

  • Is Pakistan facing an 18-hour internet shutdown? PTCL clears the air

    Is Pakistan facing an 18-hour internet shutdown? PTCL clears the air

    Rumours of an 18-hour nationwide internet shutdown have spread across social media, creating panic among users in Pakistan. Many users on X claimed that internet services would remain suspended across the country from 11 a.m. on Tuesday.

    The claims quickly gained traction as several similar posts appeared online, warning of a complete internet blackout. One user wrote, “Nationwide Internet Shutdown for 18 Hours Starting 11 AM Tomorrow,” while others shared identical posts that fueled further confusion and concern.

    However, Pakistan Telecommunication Company Limited (PTCL) confirmed that no such shutdown is planned. The company explained that users might experience slower internet speeds or brief disruptions because of maintenance work on one of its submarine cables.

    According to PTCL, engineers will repair a faulty repeater on October 14, 2025, starting at 11 a.m. The work may continue for up to 18 hours. The company stated that the activity could temporarily affect internet speed and connectivity in some areas.

    PTCL expressed regret over the inconvenience and assured users that the internet will remain operational throughout the maintenance period.

  • Mahira Khan’s Iqbal Hussain dress steals the show at charity event in Houston

    Mahira Khan’s Iqbal Hussain dress steals the show at charity event in Houston

    Superstar Mahira Khan once again showcased her impeccable fashion sense, turning heads at a charity fundraiser held in Houston.

    Known for effortlessly blending traditional and contemporary styles, Mahira opted for a graceful ensemble by designer Iqbal Hussain, paired with elegant Gianvito Rossi sandals.

    The outfit, a standout piece from Iqbal Hussain’s latest collection, featured a turquoise blue long loose kurta in a vintage cut with a band gala neckline. The top was intricately embellished with handwork, including sequins, zardozi, marrori, and nakshi. Crafted in self-jamawar fabric, the kurta was adorned with delicate paisley booties and shimmering sequin work throughout.

    Mahira paired the kurta with a basic blue, old-school style shalwar made from pure raw silk. The trousers mirrored the paisley and sequin detailing of the kurta and featured a richly embroidered border with sequins, zardozi, marrori, nakshi, and kaamdani sikka patti. Although the ensemble includes a beautifully embroidered dupatta, Mahira chose to wear only the kurta and shalwar, effortlessly combining desi elegance with modern flair.

    The charity lunch was hosted by the Momina & Duraid Foundation and saw the several well-known celebrities in attendance, including Bushra Ansari, Humayun Saeed, Faysal Quraishi and many more. A video from the event showing Mahira in the midst of a heartfelt speech is making rounds on social media, with glimpses of fellow actors Bushra Ansari and Faysal Quraishi playfully teasing her on stage.

    In her speech, Mahira shared a powerful message about gratitude and giving back: “Allah tests us by giving and by taking. When He blesses us, it is imperative for us to give back. That’s the circle of life —when something comes to you, you must share it. That’s how we can make the world a better place.”

    While speaking about producer Duraid Qureshi, Mahira remarked, “Your childhood dream has come true.”

    She also added a humorous touch to her speech, teasing fellow actors Faysal Quraishi, Humayun Saeed, and Adnan Siddiqui as the “naughty ones,” while claiming Aijaz Aslam was not. Faysal Quraishi disagreed with her lighthearted assessment, prompting Adnan Siddiqui to recite a poem in a teasing tone directed at Aijaz Aslam, drawing laughs from the audience.

    Mahira was in Houston to attend the 10th Hum Awards, held on Sunday. She graced the red carpet at the awards in an ivory georgette saree, also designed by Iqbal Hussain. The saree was embellished with intricate silk thread and lurex aari embroidery. She accessorised with minimal necklace set by Sherezad Rahimtoola and silver bangles, striking a perfect balance between tradition and modernity.

    In addition to her event appearances, Mahira is actively promoting her upcoming film Neelofar. Following the release of the film’s first teaser, she conducted a Q&A session on X (formerly Twitter), engaging with fans and building anticipation for the project.

    Actor and producer Fahad Mustafa shared the teaser on his Instagram stories, praising the film: “Apni film, apne log. Aur kya chahiye? Bhardo cinemas.” Mahira responded warmly, calling him: “Mera Hero.”

    The teaser has received widespread acclaim, with Mahira playing the role of a visually impaired woman opposite her Humsafar co-star Fawad Khan. Neelofar is scheduled for release on November 28th.

  • Nauman Ali shines as South Africa bowled out for 269

    Nauman Ali shines as South Africa bowled out for 269

    Pakistan bowled out South Africa for 269 in their first innings, taking a 109-run lead in the ongoing Lahore Test.

    South Africa started the third day on 216/6 while chasing Pakistan’s total of 378, struggling against the host country’s spin attack. Tony de Zorzi began the day on 81 with Senuran Muthusamy on 6. Muthusamy added only five more runs before Sajid Khan dismissed him for 11.

    Tony de Zorzi played a solid knock of 104 runs but lost his wicket while attempting a big shot off Nauman Ali, with Shaheen Afridi taking the catch. After that, Kagiso Rabada fell for a duck to Sajid Khan, triggering the final collapse.

    Nauman Ali led Pakistan’s bowling with six wickets, while Sajid Khan claimed three and Salman Ali Agha took one.

    Pakistan scored 378 in their first innings, with Imam-ul-Haq and Salman Ali Agha contributing 93 runs each.

  • Mahira Khan hints at TV comeback during Q&A session as Neelofar teaser wins hearts

    Mahira Khan hints at TV comeback during Q&A session as Neelofar teaser wins hearts

    Pakistani superstar Mahira Khan delighted fans with a surprise Q&A session on X (formerly Twitter) shortly after the teaser release of her highly anticipated film Neelofar.

    Despite feeling “exhausted and jet lagged,” the actress took time to connect with her followers under the banner “Ask Mahira,” where she addressed questions about her career and upcoming projects.

    When a fan asked about her return to television, Khan responded, “I know I know… I must. Waiting for something I haven’t attempted before to come back to TV,” hinting that while she’s open to returning to the small screen, she’s looking for a fresh and challenging role.

    Another fan asked if Neelofar was the most challenging role she has taken on, to which Mahira replied, “No… But the purest. The sweeetest. She doesn’t belong from this world. Misss you Rehana. So much love.” The actress, who is currently in Houston for the 2025 Hum Awards, concluded the session with a warm message to fans: “Ok bye. One eye shutting. Love YOU all.. and you all know it.”

    The teaser of Neelofar has generated widespread praise since its release, showcasing Mahira Khan in the role of a visually impaired woman, paired opposite her Humsafar co-star Fawad Khan.

    The film promises a deeply emotional narrative, with Mahira’s nuanced performance already being hailed as one of her most heartfelt. Fawad Khan’s portrayal of a man passionately in love adds further depth to the story, making Neelofar one of the most anticipated films of the year.

    The film is written and directed by Ammar Rasool and produced by Usaf Shariq, with Fawad Khan and Hassaan Khalid serving as executive producers.

    Neelofar features a stellar ensemble cast including Fawad Khan, Mahira Khan, Madiha Imam, Sarwat Gilani, Atiqa Odho, Behrooz Sabzwari, Gohar Rasheed, Faisal Qureshi, Samiya Mumtaz, Rashid Farooqui, Chand Baral, Seemi Raheel, Adeel Hashmi, Hira Tareen, and Navid Shahzad.

    Mahira unveiled the news of its release date along with the official poster of the film, writing: “Is mulaqat ka dil se intezar hai… wo November 28th ko ho ge. Presenting the official poster of Neelofar. In cinemas worldwide — 28th November. Save the date!”

  • Saif Ali Khan crowned winner of Tamasha season 4

    Saif Ali Khan crowned winner of Tamasha season 4

    After weeks filled with drama, emotions and intense competition, Saif Ali Khan has officially emerged as the winner of Tamasha Season 4.

    The much-anticipated grand finale brought the season to a spectacular close as it united contestants from all previous editions of the reality show, making it one of the most memorable finales in the show’s history.

    Hosted by the ever-graceful Shaista Lodhi, the finale was a dazzling event that seamlessly blended entertainment, nostalgia and excitement, keeping viewers captivated throughout.

    Saif’s journey to victory spanned over two months inside the Tamasha house, where he faced challenges that tested not just physical endurance but emotional strength. Friendships were tested, alliances formed and broken, and the house remained a hotbed of emotions from the very beginning.

    This season kicked off with 20 contestants and quickly evolved into a whirlwind of laughter, chaos, heartfelt moments and unforgettable confrontations. The show kept audiences glued to their screens every night with its unpredictable twists and turns.

    Joining Saif in the top five finalists were Sarah Neelum, Malaika, Yaseen Ali and Muslim Abbas — all of whom showcased resilience and determination during their time on the show. Each finalist endured over 65 days of grueling tasks, sleepless nights and emotional rollercoasters.

    Saif’s win didn’t come as a surprise to many as social media had declared him a fan favourite soon after his entry. This marks the first time in the show’s history that online audiences unanimously predicted the winner so early in the season.

    As the confetti fell and cheers erupted, Saif was awarded a cash prize of Rs2.4 million, the highest-ever across all Tamasha seasons.

  • Former Pakistani Test cricketer Wazir Mohammad passes away

    Former Pakistani Test cricketer Wazir Mohammad passes away

    Former Pakistani Test cricketer Wazir Mohammad has passed away in Birmingham at the age of 95, his family confirmed on Monday.


    Wazir was part of Pakistan’s first-ever Test squad that toured India in 1952, marking the beginning of his international career. Between 1952 and 1959, he represented Pakistan in 20 Test matches and scored 801 runs, including two centuries and three half-centuries.


    Born in 1929, Wazir was the eldest of the famous Mohammad brothers, a legendary cricketing family that also included Hanif Mohammad, Raees Mohammad, Mushtaq Mohammad and Sadiq Mohamma – all of whom represented Pakistan in Test cricket.