Exports post modest rise of 0.67pc in December

Pakistan’s merchandise exports slowed for the second consecutive month in December due to a steep fall in international demand, according to data released by the Pakistan Bureau of Statistics on Wednesday. The growth momentum picked pace in July owing to improved orders and stability in the exchange rate. Demand from North America and European countries is anticipated to pick up pace from January onwards. The exports grew 11.83pc in July, followed by 16pc in August, 13.52pc in September, 10.64pc in October, 8.98pc in November and 0.67pc in December. Pakistan Textile Exporters Association Patron-in-Chief Khurram Mukhtar told Dawn that historically, exports slowed down in December due to holidays. He mentioned that US President-elect Donald Trump has announced possible tariff increases on Chinese and South American products. Mr Mukhtar added that US retailers and buyers are visiting Pakistan to place orders, with many orders already in the pipeline.