On May 19, 2025, the State Bank of Pakistan (SBP) published the official foreign currency exchange rates, providing a crucial reference for businesses and individuals involved in cross-border transactions. These rates, derived from weighted averages across commercial banks, play a vital role in facilitating international trade and financial dealings, while ensuring transparency and stability in Pakistan’s foreign exchange market.
The SBP’s currency rates are more than simple conversion figures; they serve as important benchmarks guiding economic activities related to imports, exports, remittances, and foreign investments. By maintaining a consistent and reliable framework, the central bank supports confidence among stakeholders engaged in Pakistan’s increasingly globalized economy.
According to the SBP announcement, the buying rate for the UAE Dirham stood at 76.6574 PKR, while the selling rate was 76.7669 PKR. The Australian Dollar was priced at 180.3930 PKR for buying and 180.6668 PKR for selling. The Canadian Dollar’s buying and selling rates were recorded at 201.5714 PKR and 201.8804 PKR respectively. The Swiss Franc was trading at 336.9229 PKR for buying and 337.4600 PKR for selling. The Chinese Yuan’s rates were 39.0265 PKR for buying and 39.0769 PKR for selling. The Euro was set at 315.1350 PKR to buy and 315.6103 PKR to sell. The British Pound was valued at 374.6542 PKR for buying and 375.2171 PKR for selling. The Japanese Yen’s buying rate was 1.9395 PKR and selling rate 1.9423 PKR. The Saudi Riyal was priced at 75.0616 PKR for buying and 75.1727 PKR for selling. Lastly, the US Dollar stood at 281.5506 PKR for buying and 281.9825 PKR for selling.
These rates reflect current market conditions and are subject to fluctuations influenced by global economic trends, geopolitical developments, and domestic financial policies. Consequently, businesses and individuals are encouraged to consult the latest rates directly from the SBP or verify with their financial institutions to obtain accurate and timely information for their currency exchange needs.
The significance of these official rates is multifaceted. Commercial banks use them as the foundation to determine their own currency exchange prices, which impact importers, exporters, overseas Pakistani workers sending remittances, and investors alike. By offering clear and publicly available rates, the SBP ensures a transparent currency market that mitigates the risk of arbitrary pricing and market speculation.
Moreover, the SBP’s consistent updates and publication of these rates highlight its commitment to economic stability and financial transparency. As Pakistan’s integration with the global market deepens, such measures provide essential tools for risk management and strategic financial planning.
Foreign exchange rates are key indicators of a country’s economic health. They influence inflation, trade balances, and foreign investment flows, making the SBP’s role in monitoring and regulating these rates critical. The availability of official exchange rates helps maintain equilibrium between the demand and supply for foreign currencies, supporting Pakistan’s broader macroeconomic stability.
In summary, the SBP’s release of the foreign currency rates for May 19, 2025, remains a cornerstone of Pakistan’s financial ecosystem. These rates not only facilitate daily currency transactions but also build trust and efficiency in the country’s international trade and investment activities. As global markets evolve, the central bank’s vigilant oversight ensures Pakistan stays aligned with international financial standards, fostering a robust and resilient economic environment.