ISLAMABAD: Pakistan’s foreign exchange reserves saw a positive uptick, increasing by $23.7 million during the first business week of December 2025, according to official data released by the State Bank of Pakistan (SBP). The nation’s total liquid foreign reserves reached $19.61 billion as of December 8.
A breakdown provided by the central bank shows that the SBP’s own reserves grew by $11.7 million to $14.58 billion, while the reserves held by commercial banks increased by $12.0 million, standing at $5.025 billion. This incremental growth comes alongside a major financial inflow expected to significantly boost the reserves in the coming week.
In a key development, Pakistan has received a $1.2 billion installment from the International Monetary Fund (IMF). Sources confirm the funds have been transferred to the SBP’s account. This disbursement, approved by the IMF’s Executive Board on December 8, marks the third tranche under the current loan program. Additionally, the IMF has released a separate $200 million for Pakistan under a climate financing mechanism, aimed at supporting climate change-related measures and resilience-building.
The central bank noted that this substantial IMF inflow will be reflected in the official reserves data next week, indicating a more substantial rise is imminent. This financial injection is critical for bolstering the country’s external position, providing stability to the local currency, and meeting international payment obligations.
In a related move to regulate foreign exchange transactions and curb illicit flows, the National Database and Registration Authority (NADRA) has made identity verification mandatory for all individuals buying or selling foreign currency. This measure aims to enhance transparency within the exchange market.
The strengthening of reserves, coupled with stringent regulatory steps, points toward efforts to stabilize Pakistan’s macroeconomic framework amidst ongoing economic challenges.
Meanwhile in a stark reminder of the perilous conditions faced by laborers in Balochistan’s mining sector, two miners were killed on Thursday following a sudden mudslide inside a coal mine in the Shahrag area. The incident has once again cast a grim spotlight on the chronic issues of safety and regulation in the region’s extensive but often hazardous coal mining industry.
