Islamabad(The COW News Digital)Pakistani expatriates contributed $3.5 billion in remittances in January 2026, signaling a steady growth in foreign inflows to the country. According to the State Bank of Pakistan (SBP), remittances in January marked a 15.4 percent year-on-year increase, reflecting the resilience of overseas workers and the vital role of expatriate contributions in supporting the national economy.
During the period from July 2025 to January 2026, cumulative remittances reached $23.2 billion, representing an 11.3 percent rise compared to $20.9 billion received during the same period last year. Analysts say the continued upward trend in remittances underscores the strong economic ties between Pakistan and its global workforce.
Saudi Arabia remained the leading source of remittances, with $739.6 million sent in January alone. The United Arab Emirates followed closely, contributing $694.2 million. The United Kingdom and the United States also played key roles, with $572.1 million and $294.7 million respectively. Other Gulf and European countries collectively added significant inflows, demonstrating the geographic diversity of Pakistan’s expatriate population.
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Experts emphasize that these funds are crucial for Pakistan’s economy, as they support household incomes, bolster foreign exchange reserves, and help maintain economic stability. Remittances continue to serve as a critical financial lifeline for millions of families across Pakistan, particularly in rural areas, where overseas earnings often exceed local incomes.
Economists note that the rise in remittances also reflects improved digital transfer mechanisms and increased accessibility to formal banking channels. Initiatives by the State Bank of Pakistan and commercial banks to promote secure, low-cost remittance services have contributed to this growth.
With the global Pakistani diaspora continuing to expand, the trend is expected to sustain over the coming months. Policymakers stress the importance of facilitating remittances further, including easing transfer processes and reducing transaction costs, to maximize their impact on national development.
The inflow of remittances demonstrates how Pakistani workers abroad remain a cornerstone of economic resilience, bridging gaps in foreign exchange needs and supporting millions of households across the country. As remittances continue to grow, they reinforce the economic significance of Pakistan’s global workforce.
