KARACHI, August 21, 2025 – The State Bank of Pakistan (SBP) announced on Thursday that the country’s foreign exchange (forex) reserves registered a weekly increase of $74 million, reflecting a positive shift in external sector stability.
According to SBP data, Pakistan’s total forex reserves reached $19.571 billion for the week ended August 15, 2025, compared with $19.497 billion recorded a week earlier on August 8, 2025.
Breaking down the figures, the official forex reserves maintained by SBP rose by $13 million to settle at $14.256 billion, up from $14.243 billion the previous week. Similarly, forex reserves held by commercial banks improved significantly, gaining $61 million to close at $5.315 billion compared with $5.254 billion in the prior week.
Analysts attributed the rise in reserves to stronger inflows from export earnings, overseas workers’ remittances, and a controlled outflow of foreign payments. Market sentiment has further improved as Pakistan expects additional inflows, including a $1 billion tranche from the International Monetary Fund (IMF) under its Extended Fund Facility (EFF).
The SBP emphasized that growing forex reserves play a critical role in strengthening the rupee, supporting trade settlements, and providing a cushion against external shocks. Financial experts believe that with consistent inflows and prudent policy measures, Pakistan’s reserves position will continue to improve in the coming weeks, ensuring greater macroeconomic stability and enhanced confidence among investors.