Pakistan posts $121mn current account surplus in January

Pakistan recorded a current account surplus of $121 million in January 2026, according to data released by the State Bank of Pakistan (SBP) on Tuesday.

However, on a cumulative basis, the country posted a current account deficit of $1.07 billion during July-January FY26, compared to a surplus of $560 million in the same period last fiscal year.

During January, Pakistan’s workers’ remittance inflows totalled $3.46 billion, compared to $3.59 billion in December 2025.

On a month-on-month basis, the external account improved from a $270 million deficit in December 2025 to a $120 million surplus in January 2026.

During the first seven months of FY26, the external position remained under pressure amid higher import payments. Imports continued to reflect recovering domestic demand and easing supply constraints, while export growth remained subdued.

Data showed that the trade deficit remained elevated during the period, as import growth outpaced exports, reflecting economic normalisation and higher demand for intermediate and capital goods.

Meanwhile, Pakistan’s foreign exchange reserves held by the SBP stood at $16.18 billion as of early February.