KARACHI: Pakistan has seen a significant increase in its merchandise imports from the United States, rising by 45.44 percent, while export growth remains modest at 4.44 percent, according to Mian Zahid Hussain, President of the Pakistan Businessmen and Intellectuals Forum. He emphasized the need for an effective strategy to boost exports to the US to maintain Pakistan's net foreign exchange earnings and protect its trade surplus.
According to Pakistan Businessmen and Intellectuals Forum, data from the State Bank of Pakistan's October 2026 report shows that export receipts from the US reached $1.716 billion during July-September 2026, compared to $1.64 billion in the same period last year. Imports, however, increased substantially to $659.2 million from $453.3 million, narrowing Pakistan's bilateral trade surplus from $1.19 billion to $1.06 billion.
Mian Zahid Hussain highlighted that, according to World Bank's World Integrated Trade Solution, US imports of specific Pakistani products such as cotton garments, bed linen, and towels are substantial, yet there remains potential for growth. He urged Pakistani industries to enhance quality, certification, and marketing to improve their market share in the US. Furthermore, he called for strategic export targets and adherence to US registration requirements, particularly for medical instruments.
He also commended Pakistan's diplomatic efforts in reducing tensions between the US and Iran, noting that enhanced diplomatic engagement with the US presents economic opportunities. The Ministry of Commerce and Ministry of Foreign Affairs should leverage these engagements to secure better market access and business opportunities for Pakistani exporters, he stated.
Mian Zahid Hussain advised that the Ministry of Commerce, Trade Development Authority of Pakistan, Pakistan's trade missions, and FPCCI should collaborate on a strategy to promote exports to the US. This includes expanding participation of small and medium-sized exporters in trade exhibitions and ensuring timely tax refunds and reliable services to fulfill export commitments. Strengthening trade relations with the US could lead to increased investment, technology transfer, and job creation in Pakistan.