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Pakistan exports jump 31% in July, trade deficit shrinks over 15%: Finance adviser

Pakistan exports jump 31% in July, trade deficit shrinks over 15%: Finance adviser

A ship carries containers at the Gwadar port, some 700 kms west of Karachi, Pakistan, on November 13, 2016. (AFP/File)

ISLAMABAD: Pakistan’s exports recorded a sharp recovery in July 2026, rising by more than 31% from the previous month to reach $2.94 billion, marking one of the strongest monthly gains in recent years.


“Exports also increased by 9.5 % on a year-on-year basis, reflecting continued resilience despite a challenging global trade environment,” wrote the finance minister’s adviser Khurram Schehzad in a post on X. 


He said imports remained broadly stable during the month, registering a marginal decline of 0.2% compared to June.


“The strong export performance, coupled with stable import levels, helped narrow Pakistan’s trade deficit by more than 15% month-on-month, indicating an improvement in the country’s external sector,” the adviser said.


Figures cited by the adviser indicate stronger momentum in export-oriented industries and highlight improved resilience across Pakistan’s productive sectors as macroeconomic stability continues to support economic activity.


“The July performance also provides an encouraging start to fiscal year 2026-27, reinforcing the government’s objective of promoting export-led, competitive and sustainable economic growth,” Schehzad said.


He added that the improvement aligns with the policy direction outlined in the FY27 Budget, which focuses on boosting exports, enhancing competitiveness, reducing the cost of doing business, and encouraging private sector-led growth.