Karachi, January 9, 2026 — Pakistan has achieved a historic milestone in workers’ remittances, receiving a record $19.76 billion during the first half of the current fiscal year (July–December 2025), according to data released by the State Bank of Pakistan (SBP) on Friday. This marks a significant 11% increase compared to $17.80 billion recorded in the same period of the previous fiscal year.
The SBP report highlighted that workers’ remittances continue to serve as a major source of foreign exchange for the country, supporting the balance of payments and strengthening the national economy. On a monthly basis, Pakistan recorded an inflow of $3.6 billion in December 2025, reflecting a 16.5% year-on-year and 12.6% month-on-month growth.
Remittance inflows in December were largely driven by contributions from major overseas labor markets. Saudi Arabia led the inflows with $813.1 million, followed by the United Arab Emirates with $726.1 million, the United Kingdom at $559.7 million, and the United States contributing $301.7 million. Analysts suggest that continued demand for Pakistani workers abroad, combined with efficient transfer channels and digital remittance platforms, has bolstered this upward trend.
Economic experts believe that the sustained growth in workers’ remittances will provide a stable source of foreign exchange, help manage trade deficits, and support the government’s economic stabilization measures. The SBP reiterated that maintaining and expanding remittance channels will remain a key priority to further enhance economic resilience.
This record inflow underscores the pivotal role of overseas Pakistanis in strengthening the country’s economy amid global financial challenges.