Pakistan’s trade deficit ballooned to US$3.3 billion in September 2025, marking a sharp 46% increase year-on-year (YoY) and a 16% rise compared to August, according to data released by the Pakistan Bureau of Statistics (PBS).
The widening gap was driven by a double blow: a significant drop in exports and a strong surge in imports.
Exports in September fell 12% YoY to US$2.5 billion, despite a 4% month-on-month (MoM) uptick. Compared to the same month last year, the country’s exporters shipped out US$332 million less in goods and services.
On the other hand, imports surged 14% YoY and 11% MoM, reaching US$5.8 billion in September. The monthly import figure was up by US$517 million compared to August 2025.
As a result, the trade deficit for the first quarter of FY26 (July-September 2025) has swelled to US$9.4 billion, up 33% from US$7.0 billion in the same period last year.
This growing gap between exports and imports is a cause for concern, as it puts additional pressure on Pakistan’s foreign exchange reserves and complicates efforts to stabilize the economy.
Pakistan economy is sinking very fast, mafia will run away when it will be completely sank, living behind innocent awam at the mercy of corrupt environments.
This very alarming situation. Government must stop import of unnecessary items. Government has allowed to import five year old used vehicles which put more pressure on foreign exchange. Exports must be increased. IMF is not in favor of stabilize Pakistan’s economy. Many multinational companies like G & P winding up their manufacturing setup from Pakistan and they will export their items from a third country to Pakistan. Government must not allow to import G&P items from any country.