Pakistan Trade Deficit Hits $7.1 Billion in Early FY27

Pakistan's trade deficit widened by approximately 18 percent year-on-year to $7.1 billion during the first two months of fiscal year 2027. Data from the Pakistan Bureau of Statistics shows imports grew faster than exports, with imports reaching between $12.57 billion and $12.6 billion while exports rose to approximately $5.5 billion.

In August 2026, the monthly trade deficit was roughly $3.2 billion. While this figure represented a year-on-year increase, it marked a decline compared to the previous month.

To address these economic challenges, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif approved the creation of a Trade Facilitation Board, which he will personally chair. The board is tasked with resolving cross-border hurdles and non-tariff barriers. Additionally, the Prime Minister ordered the formation of working groups to increase the efficiency and capacity of national ports to simplify clearance procedures and accelerate the movement of goods for importers and exporters.