Pakistan’s exports declined by $1.34 billion during the first seven months of the current fiscal year.
Total exports dropped from $19.58 billion last year to $18.19 billion this year, showing a 7.11 percent decrease. The fall reflects weak global demand and domestic production challenges.
Several key sectors recorded sharp declines. Food exports saw the biggest drop, falling by 35 percent. Petroleum products, surgical goods, chemicals, and handicrafts also reported lower shipments. Rising production costs, energy prices, and global economic slowdown have affected export performance.
However, the textile sector showed slight improvement. Textile exports grew by 1.25 percent, supported by higher sales of raw cotton, cotton yarn, and ready-made garments.
Since textiles make up the largest share of Pakistan’s exports, even a small growth in this sector provides some support to overall trade figures.
Export performance:
| Category | Change |
|---|---|
| Total Exports | Down 7.11% |
| Food Exports | Down 35% |
| Textiles | Up 1.25% |
| Overall Decline | $1.34 Billion |
In January, exports showed a 35 percent rebound compared to the previous month. This recovery offered some relief and raised hopes for improvement in the coming months.
It is believed that stable policies, lower energy costs, and better market access are needed to strengthen exports.
Sustained growth in textiles and diversification into new products could help Pakistan improve its trade balance in the future.
