Pakistan records $480 million trade surplus with the United States

Pakistan Maintains Trade Surplus With United States

Pakistan recorded a trade surplus of approximately $480 million with the United States during the first two months of fiscal year 2026–27, reinforcing America’s position as the country’s largest export destination.

During July and August 2026, Pakistan’s exports to the US reached around $1.17 billion, while imports from the American market stood at approximately $690 million.

The figures show that Pakistan continued to earn more from exports to the United States than it spent on imports during the period.

Key Takeaways

  • Trade surplus: Approximately $480 million
  • Period: July-August 2026
  • Fiscal year: FY2026–27
  • Exports to the US: Around $1.17 billion
  • Imports from the US: Approximately $690 million
  • Export growth: 10.46% year-on-year
  • Import growth: Around 144% year-on-year
  • Largest export market: United States

Pakistan’s Exports to US Rise 10.46%

Pakistan’s exports to the United States increased by 10.46% year-on-year during the first two months of FY2026–27.

The growth reflects continued demand for Pakistani products in the American market. The United States remains a major destination for Pakistan’s textile products, garments, home textiles, leather goods, surgical instruments, sports goods, and other manufactured items.

The increase in exports highlights the importance of the US market for Pakistan’s foreign exchange earnings and overall trade performance.

US Imports Increase Sharply

Although Pakistan maintained a trade surplus, imports from the United States recorded a much sharper increase during the period.

Imports rose by approximately 144% year-on-year, reaching around $690 million in July-August 2026.

The increase may reflect higher purchases of machinery, industrial equipment, agricultural products, technology-related goods, energy products, and other items from the American market.

Despite the substantial rise in imports, Pakistan’s export earnings remained higher than its import bill, allowing the country to retain a positive trade balance with the US.

United States Remains Pakistan’s Largest Export Market

The latest figures reaffirm the United States as Pakistan’s largest export market.

Pakistan’s trade relationship with the US is particularly important because of the size and purchasing power of the American consumer market. Exporters across Pakistan rely heavily on US demand, especially in the textile and apparel sectors.

The continuation of export growth provides support to Pakistan’s manufacturing sector, exporters, workers, and foreign exchange position.

Trade Balance Remains Positive

The difference between exports of approximately $1.17 billion and imports of around $690 million resulted in a trade surplus of nearly $480 million.

A trade surplus means that Pakistan earned more from selling goods to the United States than it spent on goods purchased from the country.

This positive balance is important for Pakistan as the country continues efforts to improve its external account position, increase exports, and reduce pressure on foreign exchange reserves.

Growing Imports Signal Expanding Commercial Relations

The 144% increase in imports also indicates that bilateral trade is not limited to Pakistani exports alone.

Higher imports from the United States may support Pakistan’s industrial, agricultural, technological, and business activities, particularly where American products and equipment are used as inputs for local production.

However, the sharp increase in imports also highlights the need for Pakistan to sustain export growth and expand the range of products sold in the US market.

Importance for Pakistan’s Export Sector

The United States is a key market for Pakistan’s export-oriented industries. Stable demand from American buyers supports:

  • Textile and apparel production
  • Home textile manufacturing
  • Leather and sports goods exports
  • Surgical and medical instruments
  • Small and medium-sized exporters
  • Employment in export-related industries
  • Foreign exchange earnings

Maintaining access to the US market remains important for Pakistan’s long-term trade and economic strategy.

Outlook for Pakistan-US Trade

Pakistan’s positive trade balance with the United States during the opening months of FY2026–27 provides a favorable start to the fiscal year’s bilateral trade performance.

Future trade trends will depend on consumer demand in the US, global commodity prices, exchange-rate movements, trade policies, production capacity, and Pakistan’s ability to diversify its export base.

Increasing value-added exports and improving product quality could help Pakistan further strengthen its position in the American market.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much trade surplus did Pakistan record with the US?

Pakistan recorded a trade surplus of approximately $480 million during July and August 2026.

How much did Pakistan export to the United States?

Pakistan’s exports to the US reached around $1.17 billion during the first two months of FY2026–27.

How much did Pakistan import from the US?

Pakistan imported approximately $690 million worth of goods from the United States during the period.

How much did Pakistan’s exports to the US grow?

Exports increased by 10.46% year-on-year during July-August 2026.

How much did imports from the US increase?

Imports from the United States rose by approximately 144% year-on-year.

Is the United States Pakistan’s largest export market?

Yes, the United States continued to remain Pakistan’s largest export destination during the period under review.