Overseas employment rises 19%: report

Inflation at 5.8%, remittances up but FDI drops 41% and exports decline

ISLAMABAD:

The Ministry of Finance released its Monthly Economic Update and Outlook Report, stating that the number of people going abroad for employment has increased by 19 per cent.

According to the report, 75,663 workers registered for overseas employment in January, compared to 63,559 in January last year. The report says economic growth prospects have improved, citing enhanced macroeconomic stability and reduced inflationary pressures.

The Ministry of Finance also stated that a Rs38 billion Ramazan relief package was provided to the public. Inflation is expected to remain between 6 and 7 per cent this month. In January 2026, the inflation rate was recorded at 5.8 per cent.

However, geopolitical uncertainty and fluctuations in global commodity prices have been identified as potential risks. It said the balance between government revenues and expenditures has improved. The current account deficit remains under control, and the rupee has stayed stable.

IT exports increased, and access to cheaper financing has eased business activity. Large-scale manufacturing recorded a 4.8 per cent improvement over the past six months.

During the first seven months of the fiscal year, remittances increased by 11.3 per cent, reaching $23.2 billion from July to January. During the same period, exports declined by 5.5 per cent to $8.3 billion.