PM Shehbaz hails overseas Pakistanis as remittances hit record $41.6 billion in FY2025-26

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Thursday praised overseas Pakistanis for sending a record $41.6 billion in remittances during the 2025-26 fiscal year, calling them a "valuable asset" and noting that the 8.6% increase reflected their confidence in the government's policies.

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Thursday praised overseas Pakistanis for sending a record $41.6 billion in remittances during the 2025-26 fiscal year, calling them a “valuable asset” and noting that the 8.6% increase reflected their confidence in the government’s policies.

In a statement, the prime minister said, “The entire nation is proud of them,” and assured that steps for their welfare were among the government’s priorities. The consistent inflow of foreign exchange has helped ease pressure on the country’s reserves, providing much-needed stability to the economy.

The month-wise trend throughout FY26 remained largely positive, with most months showing healthy growth over the previous year. This sustained performance has been critical to Pakistan as the country continues to navigate economic challenges, including import financing, debt servicing, and building external buffers. Since the early 1970s, remittances have been a saviour of the Pakistani economy, as exports and an efficient industry have remained elusive goals.

Economists view robust remittance growth as a key stabiliser for the current account. Remittances not only support household consumption but also play a vital role in bolstering the balance of payments. Highlighting the remittance trend from FY2023 to FY2026, economist Dr. Khaqan Hassan Najeeb noted that inflows grew by 9% in FY2026, following an 11% increase in FY2024 and a 26% surge in FY2025. Pakistan received $38.3 billion in remittances during FY2025, compared with $30.3 billion in FY2024 and $27.3 billion in FY2023.

“This historic milestone reflects the unwavering confidence of overseas Pakistanis and reinforces Pakistan’s external sector resilience, stronger foreign exchange buffers, and improving macroeconomic fundamentals,” said Dr. Najeeb. The record remittances underscore the vital role overseas Pakistanis play in supporting the country’s economy, with their contributions helping to stabilise the balance of payments and support household consumption. As the government continues to prioritise their welfare, overseas Pakistanis remain a cornerstone of Pakistan’s economic resilience.