Pakistan’s total foreign exchange reserves inched past the $21 billion mark by the week ending December 26, the State Bank of Pakistan (SBP) reported.
The latest data shows a modest $13 million increase in central bank reserves, offset by a slight drop in commercial banks’ dollar holdings.
The SBP released the foreign exchange data up to December 26, revealing that the country’s total reserves now stand at $21.122 billion. This includes both the central bank’s holdings and commercial banks’ dollar deposits.
Central bank dollar reserves rise
According to the report, the State Bank’s dollar reserves increased by $13 million, reaching $15.915 billion. This reflects the central bank’s ongoing efforts to maintain stability amid global and domestic financial pressures.
In contrast, commercial banks’ dollar deposits decreased by $23 million, totaling $5.97 billion. Analysts say this reflects normal fluctuations in the banking sector and the interplay of import payments, foreign inflows, and domestic demand for dollars.
While there was a slight decline in banks’ deposits, the overall total foreign exchange reserves showed a net increase of $13 million. This signals a cautious improvement in the country’s external liquidity position heading into 2026.
