Pakistan’s food imports increased significantly during the first 10 months of the current financial year. The rise reflects higher demand for essential items and changing market conditions.
According to the Pakistan Bureau of Statistics, food imports rose by 13.81 percent in July–April FY26. The total value reached US$ 7.848 billion. This is higher than US$ 6.898 billion recorded in the same period last year.
Officials said the increase in food imports is linked to rising consumption needs and global price changes. Several key commodities showed upward trends during the period.
Imports of milk, cream, and infant food increased by 6.92 percent. The total value reached US$ 121.625 million. These items continue to see steady demand in the local market.
Dry fruits and nuts also recorded an increase in food imports. The import value rose by 10.94 percent to US$ 145.725 million. This reflects seasonal demand and household consumption patterns.
Tea imports increased by 5.13 percent during the review period. The total value reached US$ 554.889 million. Tea remains one of the most consumed items in Pakistan.
Palm oil imports showed a sharp rise. They increased by 15.41 percent to US$ 3.313 billion. This makes palm oil one of the largest components of food imports in the country.
However, some commodities showed a decline. Soybean oil imports dropped sharply by 61.15 percent. Wheat imports also fell to zero during the period under review.
Despite rising food imports, food exports declined during the same period. Total food exports stood at US$ 4.190 billion. This represents a 32.2 percent decrease compared to last year.
The widening gap between exports and imports is a concern for trade balance. Analysts say higher food imports may continue to pressure foreign exchange reserves.
Experts believe the increase in imports reflects both domestic demand and supply challenges. They also point to global price fluctuations affecting key commodities.
Economists suggest improving local agriculture and production capacity. This could help reduce dependency on imported food items in the future.
In other related news also read Trump Reinstates 10% Global Tariffs on Imports
The data highlights a shift in Pakistan’s food trade pattern. While food imports are rising, exports are facing a downward trend. This imbalance may require policy attention in the coming months.
