Farooq Awan

Pakistan’s export geography recorded notable changes in December and during the first half of the ongoing fiscal year, with shipments to major regional markets declining sharply while select destinations registered strong growth, according to the Monthly Trade Report released by the Trade Development Authority of Pakistan (TDAP).

TDAP data shows that exports to Asia declined by 29 percent year-on-year in December, reflecting a broad-based contraction in shipments to key Asian markets. Asia remained one of Pakistan’s largest regional export destinations; however, the sharp year-on-year decline significantly weighed on overall export performance during the month.

Within the region, exports to Afghanistan recorded a substantial contraction during the first half of FY26. The report indicates that Pakistan’s exports to Afghanistan fell by 55 percent to $336 million during July–December FY26, compared to the corresponding period of the previous fiscal year.

In contrast, the report highlights improved performance in a limited number of destinations. Exports to the United Arab Emirates increased by 33 percent year-on-year in December to $180 million, making it one of the few major markets to post growth during the month, according to TDAP figures.

The report also shows strong growth in exports to Central Asian countries. Exports to Uzbekistan surged by 485 percent in December, while exports to Kazakhstan rose by 184 percent during the same period, compared to December last year. Although export volumes to these destinations remain relatively smaller, the growth rates stand out in the country-wise export data.

TDAP’s country-wise export tables indicate that while Pakistan’s traditional markets experienced declines, several non-traditional markets recorded notable increases. These shifts are reflected in both the monthly data for December and the cumulative figures for July–December FY26.

During the first half of FY26, Pakistan’s overall exports declined on a cumulative basis; however, the destination-wise data highlights varying trends across regions. Declines in major markets such as Asia and Afghanistan coincided with higher shipments to select destinations, including the UAE and Central Asia.

The Monthly Trade Report provides detailed country-wise export data, outlining changes in export values, growth rates, and market composition that collectively shaped Pakistan’s export performance during December and the first half of FY26.

Credit: INP-WealthPk