Karachi, December 8, 2025 – The Pakistani rupee (PKR) strengthened slightly against the US dollar (USD) in the interbank foreign exchange market on Monday, marking a positive start to the week for the local currency.
According to the State Bank of Pakistan (SBP), the rupee appreciated by one paisa, closing at PKR 280.41 per USD, compared with Friday’s closing of PKR 280.42.
Currency market experts noted that despite routine import payments at the beginning of the week, significant dollar inflows and optimistic market sentiment supported the rupee’s modest gain. Dealers highlighted that exporters remained active in selling their dollars, motivated by expectations of a stronger rupee amid the anticipated inflows from the International Monetary Fund (IMF).
The IMF Executive Board is scheduled to meet today, with market watchers expecting the approval of $1.2 billion as the second tranche of Pakistan’s ongoing loan program. Analysts believe this step could further stabilize the rupee and strengthen investor confidence in the short term.
However, currency dealers cautioned that import-related outflows are likely to increase in the coming days, which may create downward pressure on the rupee in the near term. They advised businesses and investors to monitor currency movements closely, especially as Pakistan navigates external financing inflows alongside domestic economic activity.
Overall, Monday’s trading reflected a slight appreciation in the rupee, driven by positive sentiment, IMF-related expectations, and active participation by exporters. Analysts expect the PKR to remain sensitive to both foreign inflows and import demand, making the coming days critical for currency stability.