Heavy imports causing trade imbalances

The demand pickup in developed markets created export opportunities for Pakistan. However, continued heavy reliance on imports, particularly from China, resulted in persistent trade imbalances, according to the Economic Survey 2024-25, issued on Monday. “With global trade of goods and services growth projected to slow to 1.7 per cent in 2025, the government is taking all measures to strengthen economic buffers, expand exports, and enhance trade ties to navigate rising geopolitical and financial uncertainties,” said the survey. “Pakistan has recently resolved the issues in the import of soyabean and beef products from the US, which will further enhance its trade with one of the largest markets in the world,” it added.