Exports Fall, Imports Rise: Pakistan Faces $5B Trade Gap Widening
Gohar Ejaz has expressed serious concern over Pakistan’s worsening trade imbalance, warning that the country is showing “no signs of export-led growth.” Data from the Pakistan Bureau of Statistics shows that during July–February, the trade deficit widened by nearly $5 billion compared with the same period last year. Exports dropped by about $1.5 billion while imports increased by $3.5 billion, deepening economic vulnerabilities.
According to the figures, exports declined from $22.07 billion to $20.46 billion, while imports rose from $42.11 billion to $45.50 billion, pushing the overall trade deficit to $25.04 billion — a 25% year-on-year increase. Economists warn that if the trend continues, it could put significant pressure on foreign exchange reserves, the currency, and inflation.
They are urging the government to prioritize export growth, diversify markets, and limit unnecessary imports to stabilize the economy.
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