ISLAMABAD (Dunya News) – The Ministry of Finance Pakistan has released its latest monthly economic outlook report, highlighting key trends in Pakistan’s economy, including monetary policy, revenue growth, and external sector performance.
According to the report, the State Bank of Pakistan has maintained the policy rate at 11.5 per cent under its latest monetary policy framework. The report also noted a 7.7 per cent increase in non-tax revenue, indicating improved government income streams.
Remittances from overseas Pakistanis recorded a strong growth of 8.2 per cent, reaching $30.3 billion during July–March. The inflows continue to play a crucial role in supporting the country’s external account and foreign exchange stability.
The report highlighted a robust performance of the stock market, with the benchmark index at the Pakistan Stock Exchange crossing the 165,823-point mark. Market capitalisation rose by 44.3 per cent, with total volume recorded at Rs18.34 trillion.
On the fiscal side, the Federal Board of Revenue collected over Rs9,305 billion in taxes during July–February, reflecting an increase of more than 10 per cent. Meanwhile, Pakistan’s total foreign exchange reserves stood at $20.6 billion, with $15.1 billion held by the central bank.
The exchange rate remained relatively stable, with the US dollar hovering around Rs278.80 in the interbank market.
However, the report pointed to challenges in the external sector. Exports declined by 5.8 per cent to $23.3 billion during July–March, while imports increased by 7.9 per cent, reaching $46.8 billion. Foreign direct investment also dropped by 27 per cent to $1.35 billion, reflecting subdued investor inflows.
Inflation showed signs of moderation, with the rate recorded at 7.3 per cent in March. Large-scale manufacturing posted a growth of 5.9 per cent, signalling some recovery in industrial activity.
Additionally, agricultural lending rose by 14.4 per cent during July–February, supporting the farming sector. Corporate activity also improved, with company registrations increasing by 22.7 per cent.
The report further noted a significant improvement in the primary balance, which reached Rs4,319 billion, indicating better fiscal management and expenditure control.
Overall, the economic outlook presents a mixed picture, with positive indicators in remittances, revenue, and industrial growth, alongside ongoing challenges in exports and foreign investment.