Pakistan recorded a major trade milestone in January 2026 as monthly goods exports crossed the 3 billion dollar mark for the first time in the country’s history. According to official trade data, exports reached 3.061 billion dollars, showing a strong 34.96 percent increase compared to December 2025.
This sharp rise in exports was supported by better performance in key sectors such as textiles, food products, and engineering goods. Improved global demand and a relatively stable exchange rate also helped exporters secure new orders and expand shipments. Analysts say the figures reflect renewed confidence among exporters after months of pressure from high costs and weak external demand.
Imports during the same month declined by 4.85 percent to 5.786 billion dollars. Lower imports of machinery, fuel, and consumer goods contributed to this reduction. As a result, Pakistan’s monthly trade deficit narrowed by 28.53 percent to 2.725 billion dollars, offering some relief to the country’s external account position.
Despite the positive monthly performance, experts caution that year on year and cumulative trade data still point to deeper structural issues. Limited product diversification, reliance on a few export markets, and high production costs continue to restrict long term export growth. They stress that one strong month, while encouraging, is not enough to signal a sustained turnaround.
Economists say maintaining this momentum will require consistent policies, energy cost control, and support for value added exports. Still, crossing the 3 billion dollar mark is seen as a symbolic and economic boost, providing optimism for Pakistan’s broader economic recovery in the months ahead.
