ISLAMABAD – Pakistan imported mobile phones worth $1.36 billion during the first eleven months of the ongoing fiscal year (FY25), marking a 16.31% decline compared to the $1.62 billion recorded in the same period last year, according to newly released data from the Pakistan Bureau of Statistics (PBS).
The drop became even more noticeable in May 2025, when imports of mobile devices fell 35.83% year-on-year, and 19.61% month-on-month compared to April. The decline points to either reduced consumer demand or more stringent import regulations placed on electronic goods.
While mobile phone imports dipped, Pakistan’s overall exports showed positive momentum, rising 5.15% to $29.56 billion between July and May of FY25. The steady increase reflects ongoing efforts to enhance export-led growth and reduce the country’s dependency on imported goods.
However, overall imports climbed by 7.50%, reaching $53.55 billion, up from $49.82 billion in the same timeframe last year. This rise is largely attributed to higher import bills for fuel, raw materials, and industrial machinery.
Despite some improvements in exports, the persistent trade imbalance remains a challenge. The widening gap between exports and imports continues to strain Pakistan’s current account and foreign exchange reserves. Officials are expected to keep a close eye on these trends as they navigate key economic and trade policy decisions.
