KARACHI, August 15, 2025 – The Pakistani rupee extended its upward momentum on Friday, appreciating against the US dollar in the interbank foreign exchange market and closing at PKR 282.06.
This marks a 16-paisa gain from Wednesday’s close of PKR 282.22, as markets remained shut on Thursday for Independence Day celebrations.
Currency dealers and analysts attributed the rupee’s improved standing to the State Bank of Pakistan’s (SBP) recent decision to abolish the lien requirement on exporters under the “Delayed Realization of Export Proceeds” framework. The earlier rule, imposed through FE Circular No. 02 of March 31, 2023, had tied up delayed export proceeds, restricting liquidity. Its removal has eased cash flows, boosted market confidence, and signaled a supportive policy stance for exporters.
In addition, the SBP has refined anti-money laundering protocols to curb illicit dollar movements in foreign trade operations. The tightening of these measures is expected to help regulate foreign exchange activity and support rupee stability.
Investor sentiment further improved after data revealed over $3 billion in foreign inflows during July 2025, including $3.21 billion in workers’ remittances — a 7.4% increase compared to July 2024.
However, challenges persist. The Pakistan Bureau of Statistics reported that July 2025 imports surged to $5.45 billion, a 29.25% year-on-year increase, while exports climbed to $2.70 billion, up 17% year-on-year.
Experts believe that sustained remittance growth, expanding exports, and continued vigilance over dollar outflows will be vital in maintaining the rupee’s strength and safeguarding foreign exchange reserves in the coming months.