KARACHI: Pakistan's exports to the Gulf Cooperation Council countries have shown growth despite the ongoing US-Iran war, according to Mian Zahid Hussain, President of the Pakistan Businessmen and Intellectuals Forum. Exports to the GCC increased by 2.1 percent during the period from January to July 2026, reaching $1.944 billion, compared to $1.904 billion in the same period last year. This increase underscores the significance of Gulf countries in Pakistan's external trade, with the United Arab Emirates playing a pivotal role.
According to Pakistan Businessmen and Intellectuals Forum, Pakistan's exports to the UAE rose by 5.9 percent, amounting to an increase of $71.1 million. This growth represents 178 percent of the total net increase in exports to the GCC. The UAE and Saudi Arabia accounted for 86.5 percent of Pakistan's total exports to the region, with Saudi Arabia's exports increasing modestly by 1.4 percent to $401.1 million. Other GCC countries, including Oman, Qatar, Bahrain, and Kuwait, saw varied export performances, with Kuwait experiencing a notable increase of 14.7 percent.
Hussain highlighted the need to focus on strengthening commercial ties with Oman, Qatar, Bahrain, and Kuwait, as exports to these countries saw a decline of approximately 4.5 percent. He emphasized the importance of maintaining positive relations with the UAE despite its cold political posture, as the UAE remains a key driver of Pakistan's exports to the GCC.
Pakistan's monthly export figures showed volatility, with a peak in February 2026 and a subsequent decline, followed by a recovery in June and July. Hussain expressed appreciation for the efforts of Prime Minister Mian Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif and Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir in reinforcing Pakistan's diplomatic and economic ties with Gulf nations. He also noted the potential for Pakistan's defense cooperation agreements with Saudi Arabia and Türkiye to boost exports and enhance international relations.
Hussain recommended a two-tier export strategy, focusing on strengthening Pakistan's commercial presence in the UAE and Saudi Arabia while developing recovery plans for smaller Gulf markets. An immediate assessment of products under relevant HS codes was also suggested to identify opportunities and challenges in different markets.
Despite the challenges posed by the US-Iran conflict, Pakistan's export performance in the GCC remains resilient. However, Hussain stressed that sustainable growth requires consistent export expansion and increased commercial engagement across all six Gulf markets.