i ECONOMY

Data paints a positive picture for future of remittance inflowsBreaking

March 18, 2024

The latest data on workers' remittances in February 2024 highlights both challenges and resilience. While short-term fluctuations may occur, sustained growth on a year-on-year basis paints a positive picture for the future of remittance flows, reaffirming the crucial role played by overseas workers in supporting the nation. The data indicates a dynamic landscape for workers' remittances, with the decrease in the month-on-month comparison potentially reflecting short-term economic adjustments. However, the robust year-on-year growth suggests the overall resilience and sustainability of remittance flows. It underscores the importance of fostering policies that encourage and facilitate the contribution of overseas workers to the homeland. Institutions may need to consider targeted measures to ensure a smooth flow of remittances, recognizing the vital role they play in sustaining economic well-being.

Amid economic fluctuations facing Pakistan, workers’ remittances showed resilience in February, recording an inflow of $2.2 billion, reports WealthPK. Despite a 6.2 percent decrease on a month-on-month (m/m) basis, the year-on-year (y/y) comparison reveals a notable 13 percent increase, showcasing the sustained strength of remittances, according to the recent data provided by the State Bank of Pakistan. Over the first eight months of Fiscal Year 2024, a substantial influx of $18.1 billion has been recorded, underscoring the significant role played by overseas workers in supporting the homeland’s economy. During February, the primary contributors to the remittances’ inflow were identified as Saudi Arabia, accounting for $539.8 million, followed closely by the United Arab Emirates with $384.7 million. The United Kingdom and the United States of America also played substantial roles, contributing $346.0 million and $287.4 million, respectively.

Credit: Independent News Pakistan (INP)