ISLAMABAD, Pakistan: The Ministry of Commerce has announced significant achievements in Pakistan’s Trade Sector.
The Caretaker Minister of Commerce Dr. Gohar Ejaz said that the positive trade figures and upwards trend showcases Pakistan’s resilience.
“We will continue to work towards enabling our exporters and to find new destinations for exports,” the minister said.
Year-on-Year Increase in Exports:
In the first 20 days of December 2023, Pakistan experienced an outstanding year-on-year increase in exports, amounting to US$ 479 million, reflecting an impressive growth rate of 33.1%.
Year-on-Year Decrease in Imports:
Conversely, imports during the same period saw a substantial decrease of US$ 405 million, marking a -12.8% reduction. This positive trend contributed to an US$ 884 million improvement in the balance of trade for December 2023.
Export Milestone from July to December 2023:
From July 1, 2023 to December 20, 2023, Pakistan’s exports soared to US$ 14 billion, showcasing a remarkable year-on-year increase of US$ 709 million, translating to a substantial 5.3% improvement.
Import Decline in the Same Period:
Import figures during the same period (July 1, 2023 to December 20, 2023) dropped to US$ 24.3 billion from US$ 29.2 billion in FY-2022, reflecting a notable year-on-year decrease of US$ 4.9 billion.
This comes down to a year-on-year improvement in the balance of trade of US$ 5.6 billion.
Sectoral Performance:
- Agricultural and Food Exports:
Notably, the agricultural and food exports witnessed an extraordinary 109.2% year-on-year increase, totaling US$ 574.6 million in the first 20 days of December 2023. This surge can be attributed to robust performances in maize, corn, ethyl, alcohol, tobacco, and rice exports.
- Textile and Manufacturing & Engineering Sectors:
The textile sector and manufacturing & engineering sector demonstrated a commendable 15% year-on-year increase in exports during the first 20 days of December 2023.
Top Export Destinations:
Pakistan’s exports witnessed significant growth to key destinations including Indonesia, United Arab Emirates (UAE), Madagascar, and China.
The Commerce Minister Dr. Gohar Ejaz expressed confidence in the continuation of this upward trend, emphasizing the Ministry’s commitment to fostering a conducive environment for trade and economic growth.
These achievements underscore Pakistan’s resilience and competitiveness in the global market.
