Key Points:
- Pakistan’s remittances reach $3.5 billion in January 2026, up 15.4% from last year.
- Cumulative inflows for July–January hit $23.2 billion, rising 11.3% from FY25.
- Top contributors include Saudi Arabia ($739.6M), UAE ($694.2M), UK ($572.1M), and USA ($294.7M).
ISLAMABAD: Pakistan witnessed a significant increase in workers’ remittances, reaching $3.5 billion in January 2026, marking a 15.4% rise compared to January 2025, according to official data. The growth reflects the continued support of the Pakistani diaspora for the national economy.
Cumulative inflows for the first seven months of the fiscal year 2026 (July–January) totaled $23.2 billion, up 11.3% from $20.9 billion during the same period in FY25. Analysts say the steady rise underscores the resilience of remittance flows despite global economic fluctuations.
Saudi Arabia remained the top contributor in January, sending $739.6 million, followed closely by the United Arab Emirates with $694.2 million.
Other major sources included the United Kingdom ($572.1 million) and the United States ($294.7 million), reflecting diverse channels of diaspora inflows.
Financial experts note that consistent remittance growth strengthens Pakistan’s foreign exchange reserves, supports import needs, and sustains domestic consumption across multiple sectors. The inflows are also seen as a stabilizing factor for the national currency and overall economic resilience.
The increase also indicates that Pakistani workers abroad continue to rely on formal banking channels, improving transparency and efficiency in cross-border money transfers. Banks and financial institutions benefit from higher transaction volumes and growth in related financial services.
Officials expect that sustained growth in remittances will continue to support economic stability, enhance the government’s development initiatives, and encourage strategic engagement with the diaspora to further boost future inflows and investment opportunities.
Remittance inflows have remained a critical pillar of Pakistan’s economy, providing a steady stream of foreign currency that helps the country navigate global economic challenges and maintain fiscal stability.
