Trade deficit

Import surge widens trade gap that poses challenges to external sector stability

PBS, commerce ministry release contrasting trade figures

$6.4 billion cut in deficit now equals 78% of existing foreign exchange reserves

Balancing inflation, trade dynamics and policies for a better future

Trade deficit shrinks over 40% reaching $1.7 billion in December

Result in trade deficit of only $9.4b during first five months of this fiscal year

Drops to $5.3b on reduced imports, while export sector poses challenges

Inflation estimated to remain at 8% in next fiscal year

Increase comes on back of rising imports to support industrial, agricultural activities

Exports and imports record nominal increase in five-month period