KARACHI: Pakistan received a record USD 4.25 billion in workers’ remittances in May 2026, the highest monthly inflow ever recorded, offering a significant boost to the country’s external account and foreign exchange reserves.
The State Bank of Pakistan (SBP) on Wednesday reported that workers’ remittances maintained their strong growth momentum, rising by 20.2 percent month-on-month and 15.4 percent year-on-year in May 2026. Pakistan received USD 4.25 billion in remittances in May 2026, compared to USD 3.57 billion in April 2026 and USD 3.685 billion in May 2025, reflecting the continued confidence and support of overseas Pakistanis for the country’s economy.
This marks only the second time in Pakistan’s history that monthly remittances have crossed the USD 4 billion threshold. The previous record of USD 4.05 billion was recorded in March 2025.
READ MORE: Pakistan records $3.5bn in remittances for April 2026
However, the latest inflow of USD 4.25 billion has surpassed all previous records, setting a new benchmark for monthly remittance receipts and providing a significant boost to the country’s external account position.
Commenting on the record remittance inflows, Adviser to the finance minister on Economic Affairs Khurram Schehzad said the surge in remittances reflected the unwavering trust of overseas Pakistanis in the country’s economic direction and policies. “This is a powerful vote of confidence by overseas Pakistanis, strengthening external stability and reinforcing Pakistan’s economic resilience,” he said, adding that the historic inflow would provide significant support to Pakistan’s foreign exchange reserves and overall macroeconomic stability.
“With one month remaining in FY26, remittances are on track to exceed well beyond USD 41 billion for the first time ever”, he projected.
Cumulatively, workers’ remittances increased by 9.2 percent or USD 5 billion in the first ten months of this fiscal year (FY26). Overseas Pakistani sent home remittances amounted to USD 38.1 billion during Jul-May FY26, compared to USD 34.9 billion received during the same period last year.
Copyright Business Recorder, 2026
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