Islamabad (HRNW)- The trade deficit has increased by 28 percent during the first seven months of the current fiscal year, raising concerns about the country’s external balance despite a rise in exports.
According to data released by the Federal Bureau of Statistics, Pakistan’s exports crossed $3 billion for the first time in January 2026. However, the trade deficit widened by 28 percent during the first seven months (July to January) of the current fiscal year 2025-26.
The statistics show that exports rose by 35 percent to $3.1 billion in January, while imports declined by 5 percent to $5.8 billion. As a result, the monthly trade deficit decreased by 29 percent to $2.7 billion. Despite this monthly improvement, the overall trade deficit during the first seven months of the fiscal year continued to grow.
According to the report, the trade deficit from July to January increased from $17 billion to more than $22 billion. Exports during this period declined by 7 percent to $18.19 billion, while imports increased by 9.42 percent to exceed $40 billion. In comparison, imports stood at $36.77 billion during the same period last year. Pakistan’s exports also recorded a 3.73 percent increase compared to January 2025.
Advisor to the Finance Minister Khurram Shahzad stated that rising monthly exports and declining imports indicate gradual economic improvement. He added that exports are expected to grow further due to lower energy costs and reduced interest rates.
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