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Aftab Maken
ISLAMABAD: Pakistan’s trade deficit widened sharply in April 2026, as a steep surge in imports outpaced export growth, according to official data released by the Pakistan Bureau of Statistics.
The merchandise trade gap rose to Rs 1.139 trillion, equivalent to $ 4.074 billion, marking a 43% increase compared to March 2026 in both rupee and dollar terms. The rise reflects mounting pressure on the country’s external account amid higher import volumes.
Exports posted a moderate recovery during the month, increasing 9.38% to Rs 691.6 billion, or $ 2.479 billion. However, this gain was overshadowed by a sharp 28.26% jump in imports, which climbed to Rs 1.831 trillion, or $ 6.553 billion, driving the widening deficit.
On a year-on-year basis, exports showed relatively stronger performance, rising 13.35% compared to April 2025. Imports, meanwhile, grew at a slower pace of 6.96%. Despite this, the overall trade deficit still expanded by 3.43% annually, indicating persistent structural imbalances in trade.
For the cumulative period from July to April in fiscal year 2025-26, the trade deficit reached Rs 9.001 trillion, or $ 31.988 billion, reflecting a 21.35% increase over the same period last year. The data underscores continued stress on Pakistan’s balance of payments position.
During the ten-month period, total exports declined by 5.51% to Rs 7.081 trillion, highlighting challenges in sustaining export momentum. In contrast, imports rose by 7.85% to Rs 16.083 trillion, further widening the trade gap.
Economists link the surge in imports to a combination of rising global commodity prices, increased domestic demand, and higher imports of industrial raw materials needed to support economic activity. These factors continue to put pressure on foreign exchange reserves and the overall external sector.
The Pakistan Bureau of Statistics noted that April 2026 figures remain provisional, as data from the Directorate General of Reforms and Statistics under the Federal Board of Revenue may be subject to minor revisions.
The widening trade deficit is likely to remain a key concern for policymakers, particularly as Pakistan navigates external financing needs and ongoing economic stabilisation efforts.
