Karachi, August 13, 2025 – The Pakistani rupee posted a notable recovery on Wednesday, appreciating by 20 paisas against the US dollar, driven largely by recent export-related relaxations announced by the State Bank of Pakistan (SBP).
At the close of the interbank foreign exchange market, the rupee settled at PKR 282.22, compared to the previous day’s closing of PKR 282.42.
Currency market experts credited the uptick in the rupee’s value to the SBP’s decision to waive the lien requirement previously imposed on exporters. This step, under the “Delayed Realization of Export Proceeds” framework, had been a sticking point for businesses awaiting foreign earnings.
On Tuesday, the SBP formally revoked conditions introduced via FE Circular No. 02 dated March 31, 2023, which had inserted Para 33A into Chapter 12 (Exports) of the Foreign Exchange Manual. Those rules had restricted exporters by tying up delayed proceeds, limiting their liquidity. The new move not only frees up funds but also signals a friendlier policy stance toward boosting export competitiveness.
In addition, the SBP updated certain anti-money laundering provisions in foreign trade operations to curb illicit dollar outflows, aiming to maintain better control over foreign exchange movements.
Investor sentiment improved further after official figures showed Pakistan secured over $3 billion in foreign inflows during July 2025. This included $3.21 billion in workers’ remittances, a 7.4% increase from the $3 billion received in July 2024.
Nevertheless, trade pressures remain. PBS data revealed that imports in July 2025 surged to $5.45 billion, up 29.25% year-on-year and 12.37% from June 2025. On the positive side, exports grew 17% year-on-year to $2.70 billion and 9% month-on-month.
Analysts maintain that sustained export growth, continued remittance strength, and vigilant monitoring of dollar flows will be key in maintaining rupee stability and enhancing Pakistan’s foreign exchange reserves in the months ahead.