Current Account in deficit again in April, imports outpace exports

According to the State Bank of Pakistan data, the Current Account deficit was recorded at $324 million in April 2026, while it was only $12 million in the same month last year. After a surplus in March, the situation changed abruptly in April.

The real problem is the widening gap between imports and exports. Imports in April reached $6.9 billion, which is 11.4 percent more than last year, while exports increased by only 3.4 percent to $3.47 billion. As a result, the trade deficit increased to $3.4 billion, which is 21 percent more on an annual basis and 47 percent more on a monthly basis. Experts say that the reason for the increase in imports is the improvement in domestic demand, easing of import restrictions and increasing global prices.

There is some good news. Exports of IT and Telecom services increased by 22 percent, which helped to somewhat manage the situation. Remittances also continued to support the economy, bringing in $3.5 billion in April and total remittances in 10 months stood at $33.9 billion.

The overall deficit for the first 10 months of the fiscal year is $252 million, compared to a surplus of $1.66 billion in the same period last year. Experts have warned that if exports do not increase, there may be pressure on foreign exchange reserves and the rupee. The rupee closed at 278.60 with a slight improvement in the Interbank Market.