Pakistan’s Reserves Surge 52% as Economy Gains Strength

Islamabad (GNP): Pakistan’s economy has started the new fiscal year on firmer ground, with stronger foreign exchange reserves, higher exports and rising foreign investment recorded between July and September 2026, according to indicators shared by the Pakistan Embassy in Russia.

Reserves lead the figures. The central bank’s foreign exchange reserves stand at $21.5 billion, up 52 per cent from a year earlier.

Trade has moved in the same direction. Total exports reached $11.2 billion in the first quarter of the 2026-27 fiscal year (1QFY27), an increase of 11 per cent on the same period last year.

Foreign investors have also added to the picture. Foreign direct investment (FDI) stands at $720 million, up 20 per cent year on year.

That investment comes alongside steady sovereign ratings. All three major rating agencies place Pakistan in the B category with a stable outlook, a position that supports the improving mood among investors.

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The gains are not limited to external numbers. In the part of the scorecard on reform and inclusion, financing for small and medium enterprises (SMEs) grew 66 per cent year on year in September 2026. The number of income tax filers also rose 45 per cent year on year.

Together, these indicators form the case the embassy makes for the quarter: stability is strengthening, confidence is returning and reform momentum is advancing. The Pakistan Embassy in Russia said, “Pakistan’s economic performance during July to September 2026 shows encouraging progress.”