Pakistan's banking system, lab-grown meat uptake...

Assalamualaikum,

Pakistan’s ambition to establish an interest-free banking system by the end of 2027 is bold but perhaps a bridge too far. Despite a court ruling in 2022, the transition faces enormous challenges including sovereign debt restructuring, institutional coordination, and public trust. In contrast, the wider Islamic-finance industry is thriving, expanding 10.6% last year on the strength of strong banking activity and a resurgent sukuk market.

Elsewhere, lab-grown meat—long promoted as a climate-friendly alternative to conventional livestock—has struggled to gain meaningful traction, its momentum checked by religious concerns and protectionist farm policies.

• Challenges, sensitivities dent lab-grown meat uptake

• The complex path to halal textiles