Foreign investors sent $102.4 million in profits and dividends out of Pakistan in March 2026, according to data released by the State Bank of Pakistan (SBP). This brought the total outflow to $1.778 billion during the first nine months (July–March) of the fiscal year 2025-26.
On a yearly basis, repatriation in March declined by 35.1 percent compared to the same month last year. However, on a monthly basis, it increased sharply by 110.3 percent, showing a strong rebound from the previous month.
Overall, profit and dividend repatriation during July–March FY26 increased by about 3.4 percent compared to the same period last year. During this time, foreign companies operating in Pakistan sent $1.778 billion abroad, up from $1.719 billion a year earlier—an increase of nearly $60 million.
Sector-Wise Trends
The power sector recorded the highest increase in profit repatriation during the period. Foreign investors in this sector sent $427.5 million abroad, which is 30 percent higher than $327.9 million in the same period last year.
The financial sector ranked second, with repatriation rising to nearly $405 million. Other sectors such as oil and gas exploration, cement, and beverages also contributed to the overall outflows, although trends varied across industries.
What the Data Indicates
The rise in profit repatriation reflects improved profitability for some foreign companies and relatively smoother foreign exchange conditions compared to previous years. At the same time, it also highlights continued pressure on Pakistan’s external account, as more foreign earnings are being sent out of the country.
