The United States continued to dominate as Pakistan’s largest export destination in September 2025, maintaining its position as the country’s top trading partner with shipments worth $530.44 million. According to the latest data released by the State Bank of Pakistan (SBP), exports to the US registered a year-on-year increase of 3.7%, compared to $511.51 million during the same month last year. This sustained growth highlights the strong trade relationship between the two nations, particularly in textiles, apparel, and value-added manufacturing segments, which remain key drivers of Pakistan’s export revenue.
China emerged as the second-largest export destination, although exports to the country declined by 11.8% year-on-year, totaling $207.92 million compared to $235.64 million in September 2024. The slowdown in exports to China is attributed to shifting global demand patterns and moderation in industrial activity, but on a sequential basis, Pakistan’s exports to China saw a strong month-on-month increase of 34.3%, reflecting a short-term recovery in trade flows.
The United Kingdom ranked third among Pakistan’s top export destinations, with export receipts amounting to $188.62 million in September. This represented a marginal decline of 4.1% compared to $196.62 million in the same period last year. However, on a month-to-month basis, exports to the UK improved by 3.6%, suggesting renewed momentum in bilateral trade amid stable demand for Pakistan’s textile and home furnishing products.
Spain continued to perform strongly as Pakistan’s fourth-largest export destination, with exports reaching $140.63 million, an impressive 14.4% year-on-year increase. The growth reflects the European Union’s consistent demand for Pakistan’s textile goods and leather products, supported by the GSP+ trade preference scheme. Similarly, exports to the Netherlands rose by 14.5% year-on-year to $138.14 million, indicating growing penetration in European markets.
Germany ranked fifth, with export receipts totaling $140.04 million, slightly down by 0.5% year-on-year. Meanwhile, exports to the United Arab Emirates (UAE) declined sharply by 14.6% year-on-year to $124.61 million, primarily due to reduced demand for re-exported goods and commodity-based trade.
On a cumulative basis, during the first 15 months of fiscal year 2026 (15MFY26), the United States retained its lead as Pakistan’s largest export market, generating total export receipts worth $1.64 billion. This marks a 12.3% increase compared to $1.46 billion during the same period of FY25, reaffirming the US as a cornerstone of Pakistan’s external trade portfolio.
Exports to the UK during 15MFY26 totaled $573.74 million, showing a modest growth of 1.9%, while cumulative exports to China stood at $562.39 million, slightly higher than the $559.08 million recorded in the corresponding period last year.
Overall, Pakistan’s export performance in September demonstrates resilience in key markets despite global economic headwinds. The consistent growth in exports to major destinations such as the US, Spain, and the Netherlands underscores the country’s expanding manufacturing base and diversification in product categories. However, the decline in exports to China and the UAE indicates the need for stronger bilateral trade strategies and market diversification efforts.
As the global trade landscape evolves, Pakistan’s sustained focus on improving export competitiveness, enhancing production efficiency, and exploring new markets will be crucial for maintaining its growth trajectory in the coming months.
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