KARACHI: Pakistan’s exports hit a record $3.1 billion in January 2026, up 35 percent from previous months and 3.73 percent compared to January 2025, according to the Pakistan Bureau of Statistics. Imports dropped by 5 percent to $5.8 billion, shrinking the monthly trade deficit by 29 percent to $2.7 billion.
Despite these gains, the cumulative trade deficit grew by 28 percent in the first seven months of FY 2025-26, reaching over $22 billion compared to $17 billion last year. Exports fell by 7 percent to $18.19 billion, while imports rose 9.42 percent, topping $40 billion.
Khurram Shahzad, Advisor to the Finance Minister, noted monthly improvements as a positive sign, crediting lower energy costs and interest rates for likely boosting exports further. However, persistent high imports and supply-side struggles remain major concerns for economic stability.
