Pakistan recorded a strong inflow of $3.4 billion in remittances from overseas workers in October 2025, reflecting a 12% year-on-year increase, according to the State Bank of Pakistan (SBP). The surge highlights the continued trust and contribution of overseas Pakistanis in supporting the country’s economy amid global financial challenges, reported 24NewsHD TV on Friday.
The SBP data showed that monthly remittances rose by 7% compared to $3.2 billion in September 2025, marking one of the most robust growth periods in recent months. The consistent upward trend underscores the vital role remittances play in strengthening Pakistan’s external accounts, boosting economic activity, and supporting millions of households that rely on this income.
According to SBP, total remittance inflows during the first four months of FY2025-26 (July–October) stood at $12.9 billion, compared to $11.9 billion during the same period last year — a growth of 9.3%. Analysts attribute this rise to the government’s proactive measures to encourage the use of formal banking channels and the successful continuation of the Pakistan Remittance Initiative (PRI).
Launched in 2009, the PRI aims to facilitate smoother and more secure money transfers through financial institutions. Since its inception, the number of participating institutions has expanded from 25 in 2009 to over 50 by 2024, helping to formalize a large portion of remittance inflows that previously moved through informal means.
Region-wise data for October 2025 shows that the largest remittance share came from Saudi Arabia, amounting to $821 million, representing a 9% increase over September 2025 and a 7% rise from October 2024.
The United Arab Emirates (UAE) followed with $698 million, a solid 12% year-on-year increase, while remittances from the United Kingdom (UK) reached $488 million, marking a 7% rise month-on-month and an impressive 13% jump compared to the previous year.
Remittances from the United States totaled $290 million, showing a 4% year-on-year decline but an 8% increase compared to the previous month. Meanwhile, inflows from European Union (EU) countries rose sharply by 27% year-on-year, reaching $457 million — reflecting growing contributions from Pakistanis living across Europe.
Economists note that the sustained growth in remittances is helping Pakistan manage its current account deficit, stabilize the rupee, and build foreign exchange reserves. The inflows also provide a cushion for families facing inflationary pressures and reduced employment opportunities domestically.
Government officials and the SBP have reiterated their commitment to further expanding digital remittance channels, reducing transaction costs, and ensuring timely transfers to maintain this positive trend.
The latest figures reaffirm that overseas Pakistanis continue to serve as a critical economic pillar, contributing significantly to Pakistan’s financial stability and socio-economic resilience.
