ISLAMABAD: Pakistan achieved a historic milestone in January as exports surpassed $3 billion for the first time, highlighting stronger trade performance and an uptick in economic activity.
According to the Pakistan Bureau of Statistics, the surge in exports, combined with a decline in imports, contributed to narrowing the country’s trade deficit.
Pakistan’s exports reached $3 billion during the month, while imports fell to around $5.5 billion.
On a monthly basis, exports grew sharply by nearly 35 percent, while imports declined by approximately 5 percent, further easing pressure on the trade balance.
During the first seven months of the current fiscal year, cumulative exports totaled $18 billion, compared with imports of $40 billion.
Pakistan achieves historic milestone in exports and trade growth as a result of Special Investment Facilitation Council's economic and trade strategies#SIFC #RadioPakistan #news https://t.co/iuC75sq7VF pic.twitter.com/eczB2ilkWU
— Radio Pakistan (@RadioPakistan) February 4, 2026
Officials noted that the growth in exports and improved trade activity indicates a positive outlook for Pakistan’s economy, supporting higher foreign exchange inflows, job creation, and greater economic stability.
According to Advisor to the Finance Minister Khurram Schehzad, the textile sector continues to dominate Pakistan’s exports, showing notable growth in the value-added segment in January compared to December.
He added that other key sectors—including sports goods, chemicals, pharmaceuticals, cement, and engineering products—also recorded significant improvements in their export performance.
Minister of State for Finance and Railways Bilal Azhar Kayani highlighted Pakistan’s economic progress at the Government Experience Exchange Forum 2026, held as part of the World Governments Summit.
He said recent figures reflect the impact of policy measures designed to reduce industrial costs, expand credit for exporters, and transition the economy toward sustainable, export-driven growth.
“Pakistan is moving decisively toward an export-led model by lowering energy costs for industry and improving access to finance for businesses,” Kayani told the forum.
“These reforms are enhancing competitiveness and restoring investor confidence.”
Kayani represented Pakistan during the session titled “Investing Smart for Resilient Economies”, part of the forum’s theme “Leadership Beyond Borders: Partnerships that Power the Future”, which brings together global leaders to discuss cooperation, investment, and sustainable development.
