Non-textile exports dip 17pc in July-January

ISLAMABAD: Exports of non-textile products dipped by 17.32 per cent to $7.286 billion in the first seven months of the current fiscal year from $8.812bn, largely attributed to a steep reduction in exports of agricultural produce and value-added shipments.

The contraction reflects mounting pressure on key sectors, especially agriculture-based products, which have struggled with lower volumes and weaker external demand.

Analysts suggest that without a rebound in value-added products, overall export performance may remain under pressure in the coming months.

However, paltry growth was recorded in leather, footwear, and engineering products in 7MFY26 compared with a year ago, according to data compiled by the Pakistan Bureau of Statistics.

Proceeds slump to $7.3bn on poor agriculture sector performance

Proceeds slump to $7.3bn on poor agriculture sector performance

The agriculture sector bore the brunt of the slowdown, with rice exports suffering the steepest setback. During the first seven months of FY26, the value of rice exports plunged by 40.51pc to $1.305bn on a year-on-year basis.

The decline was not limited to prices alone. Export volumes also fell sharply, dropping 32.94pc YoY to 2.439 million tonnes. The decline was observed across basmati and non-basmati varieties.

The dual fall in both value and quantity points to a combination of lower international prices and weaker demand in key markets. In response, the government has unveiled a Rs15 billion subsidy package aimed at stabilising the sector and supporting exporters.

In contrast to the contraction in agriculture, parts of the non-agricultural sector posted paltry gains during the review period.

Exports of engineering goods rose........

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