ISLAMABAD –
Official data shows that Pakistan’s exports from 30 out of 71 key sectors fell during the first quarter of fiscal year 2025–26, contributing to slower export growth and an increasing trade deficit.
According to the Pakistan Bureau of Statistics (PBS), the trade deficit surged to $9.4 billion between July and September. Exports declined by 3.88% to $7.6 billion (Rs2.15 trillion), while imports rose 13.9% to $17 billion (over Rs4.82 trillion).
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Food exports: Fell 31%, Rice down 42%, Basmati rice 43.6%, Vegetables down 41%, tobacco 48%, Nuts and oilseeds down 68%, Sugar exports suspended. Textiles: Mixed performance; Cotton cloth down 14%, Overall textiles up 5.6%, ready-made garments up 6%. Cement exports: Up 51%. Fruits: Up 17%. Other sectors: Carpets & mats down 12%, cutlery 12%, pharmaceuticals 7%. Transport equipment down 38%, jewellery 98%, handicrafts 94%, furniture 12%.
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Food imports up 35%, machinery 21%, transport 112%, textile-related 11%. Petroleum imports down 6.7%, petroleum products & natural gas down 30%. The government had targeted a trade deficit of $29.92 billion and exports of $35.28 billion for FY2025–26 under its Udaan Plan, aiming to raise exports to $60 billion over five years. However, the first quarter indicates a setback in exports, raising concerns about meeting the annual targets.