Pakistan Trade Deficit Soars
Pakistan’s Trade Deficit Widens Sharply Amid Rising Imports, Falling Exports
ISLAMABAD – Pakistan’s trade deficit expanded significantly in the first quarter of the current fiscal year, driven by a surge in imports and a decline in exports, official data showed.
According to figures released by the Pakistan Bureau of Statistics (PBS), imports between July and September 2025 rose 13.49 percent to $16.97 billion, while exports slipped 3.83 percent to $7.60 billion. The imbalance pushed the overall trade deficit higher during the quarter.
On a monthly basis, the gap widened further in September. The trade deficit hit $3.34 billion, marking a 45.83 percent increase compared to the same month last year. Month-on-month, it rose 16.33 percent from August.
Imports in September stood at $5.84 billion, while exports dropped 11.71 percent year-on-year to $2.50 billion.
Economists warn that the widening trade gap reflects growing external sector vulnerabilities, placing additional strain on Pakistan’s foreign exchange reserves and balance of payments.
July Data
Earlier in July, the trade deficit had reached $2.75 billion, up 16.02 percent from June. Exports in July showed some improvement, rising 16.91 percent year-on-year to $2.697 billion, compared to $2.307 billion in July 2024. Imports, however, jumped 29.25 percent to $5.449 billion, further widening the gap.
PBS figures also indicated that on a month-to-month basis, exports grew 8.88 percent in July compared to June, offering a brief positive sign before the subsequent decline.
Mutib Khalid is a skilled content writer and digital marketer with a knack for crafting compelling narratives and optimizing digital strategies. Excel in creating engaging content that drives results and enhances online presence. Passionate about blending creativity with data-driven approaches, Mutib Khalid helps brands connect with their audience and achieve their goals.
