Pakistan’s food import bill witnessed a significant rise in the fiscal year 2024–25, with the country spending a record $8.14 billion on food imports -- marking an increase of $245 million compared to the previous year.
In terms of local currency, the value of food imports stood at Rs2,276 billion, up from $7.90 billion (Rs2,031 billion) in the fiscal year 2023–24, representing a 3.1% annual increase, according to the latest data released by the Pakistan Bureau of Statistics.
Dairy, dry fruits, spices see sharp rise
The report reveals a sharp increase in the import of several key food categories. Dairy products, including milk, butter, and cream, were imported at a value of Rs34.84 billion, reflecting a 9% increase compared to the previous year.
Even more striking was the surge in dry fruit imports, which jumped by 100%, reaching a volume of Rs40 billion.
Similarly, the import of spices increased by 16%, with Pakistan bringing in Rs63.58 billion worth of spices during the year.
Rise in imports of sugar, pulses, oils
The report also highlighted increased imports of soybeans, palm oil, sugar, and pulses, suggesting rising domestic demand or shortfalls in local production.
Decline in wheat and tea imports
However, not all food imports saw an upward trend. Wheat imports decreased by 100%, indicating no wheat was imported during the year—possibly due to improved local production or policy shifts. Tea imports also declined by 4.2%, the report stated.
