Discounted peak royalties continue. During 2007 the Pakistan Ministry of Tourism maintained a 50 percent reduction on royalty fees for peak permits, and in November the government announced that these discounts and other concessions would continue in 2008.

The 50 percent discount applies to all peaks above 6,500m; there is no royalty on peaks below 6,500m. Furthermore, in Chitral, Gilgit, and Ghizar the royalty is only 10 percent of the published rate, except for Spantik. During the winter season (December–February), the royalty is only 5 percent of the normal rate. No liaison officer will be required outside of the Baltoro region. The Alpine Club of Pakistan publishes a list of current royalties at wwm.alpineclub.org.pk/peak_royalties.php.

Karrar Haidri, Alpine Club of Pakistan