Timely Insights and Key Industry Changes
Hi, it’s Faiz from Maalbardaar.
After last week’s focus on diesel prices, Hormuz risk, customs changes, and freight costs, this week brings some positive economic signals.
Pakistan’s current account deficit narrowed in August, while foreign exchange reserves improved.
But logistics costs are still sensitive.
Diesel remains expensive, Port Qasim activity is import-heavy, and vessel movement through the Strait of Hormuz remains under pressure.
For importers and exporters, the message is simple:
Pakistan’s external position is improving, but freight and shipment planning still need close attention.
The Current Situation: External Position Improves
According to State Bank of Pakistan data, Pakistan recorded a $98 million current account deficit in August 2026.
This was much lower than the $445 million deficit in July.
At the same time, Pakistan’s total foreign exchange reserves reached $26.79 billion, according to Business Recorder.
SBP’s own reserves increased to $21.39 billion, mainly after receiving $3 billion in Eurobond proceeds.
This is positive for trade confidence and import payment stability.
Key Updates
1. Current Account Deficit Falls to $98 Million
Pakistan’s current account deficit narrowed sharply in August.
According to SBP data, the deficit fell from $445 million in July to $98 million in August.
This gives some support to Pakistan’s external position.
But imports are still high, so businesses should continue checking exchange rates, payment timing, and landed cost.
2. Foreign Exchange Reserves Improve
Pakistan’s total liquid foreign exchange reserves increased to $26.79 billion as of September 11.
According to Business Recorder, SBP-held reserves reached $21.39 billion after Eurobond inflows.
This gives Pakistan more support for imports, external payments, and currency stability.
3. Diesel Remains Above Rs424 Per Litre
Fuel prices received a small cut on September 19.
According to Pakistan State Oil, petrol fell to Rs389.14 per litre, while high-speed diesel stood at Rs424.04 per litre.
The reduction is small compared with the recent increase in fuel costs.
For logistics, diesel remains the more important number because it directly affects:
- Inland freight
- Container movement
- Port-to-warehouse delivery
- Long-route transport
- Final landed cost
Importers should continue checking transport rates before confirming shipments.
4. Hormuz Shipping Traffic Remains Under Pressure
The Strait of Hormuz remains an important shipping risk.
According to Reuters, only 17 trackable commodity vessels crossed the Strait of Hormuz over the weekend, compared with 37 the previous weekend.
Before the regional conflict, around 125 large commercial vessels normally crossed the strait each day.
One LNG tanker carrying cargo from Qatar was also reported to be heading toward Pakistan.
For importers, this means vessel schedules, transit times, and freight rates can still change quickly.
5. Port Qasim Movement Remains Import-Heavy
Port Qasim continues to handle strong import movement.
According to Business Recorder, the port handled 156,171 tonnes of cargo in a 24-hour period.
This included:
- 125,098 tonnes of imports
- 31,073 tonnes of exports
- 1,900 import TEUs
- 1,476 export TEUs
This means importers should stay ready with customs documents, payments, transport, and warehouse planning before cargo arrives.
What This Means for Importers and Exporters
Week 38 gives a better economic picture.
The current account deficit has narrowed and foreign exchange reserves are stronger.
But operating costs are still high.
Diesel remains expensive, Hormuz traffic is still disrupted, and port movement remains import-heavy.
Importers and exporters should focus on:
- Checking freight before booking
- Reviewing final landed cost
- Preparing customs documents early
- Confirming inland transport
- Tracking vessel movement closely
The key lesson is simple:
Better reserves help trade confidence, but businesses still need to stay ready for freight and shipping changes.
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