Pakistan’s exports declined by $2.41 billion during the first eight months of the current fiscal year, falling from $22 billion to $20.46 billion, according to the Federal Bureau of Statistics.
Despite government claims of growth, the trade data shows a continued downward trend.
Food exports, including rice, were the hardest hit, dropping by 34 percent to $3.41 billion from last year’s $5.17 billion. Basmati and other rice exports fell by 40 percent, reducing the total volume to $1.49 billion. Other agricultural commodities such as tobacco, vegetables, sugar, oilseeds, and spices also saw significant declines.
On the other hand, textile and manufacturing exports showed modest growth. Textile exports increased by 0.27 percent to $12.21 billion, driven by a 2 percent rise in raw cotton exports, a 55 percent increase in crude oil and coal shipments, and a 4.92 percent increase in ready-made garments. Engineering goods, sports equipment, electric fans, and transport equipment also recorded higher exports.
Manufacturing group exports fell by 4.55 percent to $270 million, while surgical and medical instrument exports reached $30 million. Experts warn that ongoing regional conflicts could further impact Pakistan’s export performance in the coming months.
