Pakistan’s foreign exchange reserves increased by $43 million during the week ended May 29, 2026, according to data released by the State Bank of Pakistan. The rise pushed the central bank’s reserves to $17.19 billion, reflecting continued external sector stability. The development is significant for investors, policymakers and businesses monitoring the country’s financial position.
The State Bank reported that its foreign exchange holdings reached $17.1904 billion at the close of the review week. The increase highlights the central bank’s ability to maintain a comfortable reserve position despite external financing requirements. Strong reserve levels are widely viewed as an important indicator of economic resilience and payment capacity.
Read more: SBP-held foreign reserves rise by $66 million to $17.15 billion
Meanwhile, commercial banks held net foreign exchange reserves of $5.4456 billion during the same period. Combined with the central bank’s holdings, Pakistan’s total liquid foreign exchange reserves stood at $22.64 billion. The figures underscore the country’s improved external liquidity position compared with previous years.
Foreign exchange reserves play a crucial role in supporting imports, managing external debt obligations and maintaining confidence in the financial system. Economists closely watch reserve trends as a measure of a country’s ability to withstand external shocks. Stable reserves also help support exchange rate management and investor sentiment.
Read more: Pakistan’s total liquid foreign reserves rise to $21.29 billion
The State Bank said the country’s overall liquid foreign exchange reserves remained at a stable level. Officials noted that reserve strength remains a key indicator of Pakistan’s capacity to meet external payment obligations and sustain financial stability. The latest increase comes as authorities continue efforts to strengthen macroeconomic fundamentals.