Foreign firms repatriate $1.73 billion in profits from Pakistan in 8MFY26

Repatriation of profits and dividends by foreign investors increased 10.52% to $1.73 billion during the first eight months of FY26, compared to $1.56 billion in the same period last year, according to data released by the State Bank of Pakistan (SBP).

Outflows linked to foreign direct investment accounted for $1.67 billion, up 11.27% from $1.5 billion in 8MFY25. In contrast, portfolio investment outflows declined to $60.32 million, down 6.81% from $64.73 million.

In February alone, foreign firms repatriated $48.7 million in profits and dividends.

Sector-wise, the power sector recorded the highest outflows at $421.85 million, followed by the financial business sector at $374.09 million. The food sector reported outflows of $142.42 million, while the communications and transport sectors accounted for $132.3 million and $91.29 million, respectively.

By country, the United Kingdom remained the largest recipient of repatriated profits at $444 million during 8MFY26, though lower than $496.59 million a year earlier. China ranked second with $433.32 million, showing a significant increase from $140.46 million in the corresponding period last year.

The Netherlands received $155.2 million, slightly down from $158.88 million, while the United States recorded outflows of $147.51 million.