
Are Pakistanis really eating less — or eating differently?
January 28, 2026


Tracking Worker Remittances to Pakistan: 500 million USD a month to 3 Billion USD a month.
The latest data from the State Bank of Pakistan shows a continued and substantial inflow of worker remittances, which remain one of the most stable sources of foreign exchange for the country.
Over the past two decades, monthly remittances have grown from below $500 million in 2006 to regularly exceeding $2.5–3 billion in 2024. This growth reflects both an increase in the number of overseas Pakistanis and their continued financial engagement with families back home.
Seasonal peaks are observed around Eid-ul-Fitr (blue dots) and Eid-ul-Adha (black dots).
In the past 12 months, April and May 2024 saw the highest inflows, likely tied to Ramadan and Eid-related transfers.
From a macroeconomic perspective, remittances have:
Helped narrow the current account deficit,
Provided critical support for household consumption,
And offered a buffer against external financing pressures.
While volatile capital flows and debt repayments continue to challenge Pakistan’s external position, remittances remain relatively stable, predictable, and resilient.