Pakistan’s export sector recorded significant growth in the fiscal year 2024, with total exports crossing the $32 billion mark — a 4.45% increase compared to the previous year.

The boost was largely driven by textiles, pharmaceuticals, petroleum products, leather goods, and sports equipment, according to official trade figures.

Textile sector hits record high of $17.88bn

The textile industry, Pakistan’s largest export sector, saw a 7.39% increase in exports, reaching a record high of $17.88 billion. Major contributors to this growth included ready-made garments, raw cotton, yarn, knitwear, bedwear, towels, and tents.

Notable growth in pharma, leather, petroleum exports

The pharmaceutical sector posted a remarkable 34% growth, with exports rising to $457.4 million — a clear indicator of the industry's emerging role in Pakistan’s export mix.

Exports of leather products increased by 4.87% to $572.5 million, while petroleum and coal products surged by a massive 44%, reaching $573.3 million.

Other high-performing categories included:

Sugar: 765,000 tonnes exported, earning $411 million
Manufacturing equipment: Up by 4.84% to $4.22 billion
Sports goods: Continued strong performance in footballs, gloves, and carpets
Surgical instruments, plastic products, cement, jewellery, and rubber items also contributed positively

Food exports under pressure

On the downside, food exports declined by 3.44%, with the total value standing at $7.11 billion. The decline was mainly due to reduced exports of rice, fruits, vegetables, spices, and meat — key segments that are now facing competitiveness and logistics challenges.

A downward trend was also recorded in the exports of furniture and electric fans.

Domestic export growth adds $1.36bn

Overall, domestic exports rose by $1.365 billion, bolstering the trade outlook. The trade data suggests a strategic shift toward value-added sectors like textiles, pharmaceuticals, and industrial goods — aligning with Pakistan’s export diversification goals.