The State Bank of Pakistan (SBP) reported another increase in its foreign exchange reserves. The reserves rose during the week ended August 20, 2026.
According to the latest data, SBP reserves increased by $17 million during the reported week. The central bank’s reserves reached $17.099 billion.
The reserves stood at $17.082 billion one week earlier. The latest increase represents a modest improvement in the country’s external liquidity position.
Pakistan’s total liquid foreign exchange reserves also recorded growth during the period. Total reserves reached $22.587 billion.
The figure was $81 million higher than the previous week’s level. The increase included higher reserves held by both the central bank and commercial banks.
Commercial Bank Reserves Increase
Commercial banks held $5.489 billion in foreign exchange reserves. Their holdings increased by $65 million compared with the previous week.
The commercial banking sector therefore contributed significantly to the overall weekly increase. The SBP remained the largest holder of the country’s foreign exchange reserves.
The combined reserves of the SBP and commercial banks reached $22.587 billion. This figure represents Pakistan’s total liquid foreign exchange reserves.
The latest figures show a gradual improvement in the country’s reserve position. However, the weekly increase remained relatively limited.
SBP Reserves Remain Above $17 Billion
The latest data keeps SBP reserves above the $17 billion mark. The central bank’s holdings increased from $17.082 billion to $17.099 billion.
The $17 million rise came alongside a $65 million increase in commercial bank reserves. Together, these changes lifted total reserves by $81 million.
Foreign exchange reserves are an important indicator of a country’s external financial position. They help support international payments and essential import requirements.
Pakistan’s reserve position is closely monitored by financial institutions and market participants. Changes in reserves can provide insight into external liquidity conditions.
Reserves Provide 2.6 Months of Import Cover
The current level of foreign exchange reserves provides roughly 2.6 months of import cover. This indicates the approximate period reserves could support import payments.
Maintaining sufficient reserves remains important for Pakistan’s economic stability. Adequate foreign exchange also helps meet external payment obligations.
The latest SBP data shows a modest improvement in the country’s reserve position. Both central bank and commercial bank holdings increased during the reported week.
The SBP continues to hold the majority of Pakistan’s foreign exchange reserves. Its holdings reached $17.099 billion as of August 20.
Commercial banks held the remaining $5.489 billion. Their reserves increased by $65 million during the same period.
Overall, Pakistan’s total liquid reserves reached $22.587 billion. This was an $81 million increase from the previous week.
The latest figures provide a snapshot of Pakistan’s external liquidity. They also show continued growth in foreign exchange holdings across the banking system.
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For the week ended August 20, SBP reserves increased by $17 million. Total liquid reserves also rose, providing around 2.6 months of import cover.
