Pakistan services exports rise 19pc on IT gains

Pakistan’s services exports continued their upward run in FY26, rising 18.81 per cent to $10.04 billion, according to official data compiled by the Pakistan Bureau of Statistics and reported by Dawn Business. The increase was led mainly by the information technology sector, which remained the strongest contributor to export growth during the year.

The latest figures show that services exports were well above the $8.45 billion recorded in the same period of the previous year. In rupee terms, the category also posted solid growth, climbing 19.33 per cent to Rs2.815 trillion in FY26 from Rs2.359 trillion in FY25.

Monthly export momentum stayed positive

The year also ended on a stronger note in June, when services exports rose 37.20 per cent year on year to $955.91 million, compared with $696.60 million in the same month last year. That monthly increase was supported by telecommunications, computer and information services, which have remained the main drivers of services export performance in 2025-26.

The broader trend marks another year of expansion for Pakistan services exports. In FY25, services export growth had already reached 9.23 per cent, taking receipts to $8.39 billion from $7.68 billion in FY24.

IT, business and travel lead the gains

State Bank of Pakistan data shows that telecommunications, computer and information services rose 20.42 per cent to $4.60 billion in FY26 from $3.82 billion a year earlier. Other business services also performed strongly, increasing 27.22 per cent to $2.15 billion from $1.69 billion.

Travel services added to the overall increase as well, with exports climbing 52.74 per cent to $1.115 billion from $730 million in FY25. By contrast, transport services slipped 6.61 per cent to $933 million from $999 million a year earlier.

Imports of services also moved higher

On the import side, services purchases rose 5.67 per cent to $11.93 billion in FY26 from $11.29 billion in the previous fiscal year. In June, imports were up 3.48 per cent at $932.81 million, compared with $901.40 million in the same month last year.

The transport sector made up the largest share of services imports in FY26, driven by higher spending in that category, according to the available data.

For policymakers and exporters, the figures point to a services sector that is still expanding, with Pakistan services exports benefiting most from digital and business-linked categories. The contrast with mixed merchandise trade trends also highlights the growing importance of the services economy in the country’s external accounts.

FAQ

What drove Pakistan services exports higher in FY26?

The main driver was telecommunications, computer and information services, supported by gains in other business services and travel.

How much did services exports reach in FY26?

They rose to $10.04 billion in FY26, up from $8.45 billion in the same period last year.

Did services imports also rise?

Yes, services imports increased 5.67 per cent to $11.93 billion in FY26.