Merchandise exports post meagre growth

The exports of merchandise slowed for the third consecutive month in January due to a slight fall in international demands, the Pakistan Bureau of Statistics said on Monday. On a year-on-year basis, the exports grew 11.83pc in July, followed by 16pc in August, 13.52pc in September, 10.64pc in October, 8.98pc in November, 0.67pc in December and 0.31pc in January. Exports in December 2024 were $2.911bn. The slowdown may worry policymakers, although other analysts believe that exports often fall from November to January due to seasonal changes. The growth momentum in exports from Pakistan 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.