Foreign companies operating in Pakistan repatriated more than US$2 billion in profits and dividends during the first 10 months of FY26, reflecting higher earnings and improved foreign exchange availability that enabled greater outward transfers.

According to State Bank of Pakistan data, total profit repatriation stood slightly above US$2 billion in 10MFY26, up 8.7% compared to the same period last year. In April alone, multinational companies sent US$172 million abroad, a 42% increase year-on-year.

The financial sector accounted for the largest share of outflows in April, with foreign banks and financial institutions repatriating US$72 million. The food sector followed with US$30 million, while tobacco and cigarette companies transferred US$26 million overseas, according to AKD Securities.

By country, the United Kingdom led profit repatriation during the month with US$81 million, reflecting its strong investment presence in Pakistan’s corporate sector.

The increase in profit repatriation comes as Pakistan’s external account position has improved compared to previous years, allowing companies easier access to foreign exchange for transferring earnings abroad. In earlier periods of FX pressure, multinational firms often faced delays or restrictions in profit remittances due to dollar shortages.

While rising repatriation is generally seen as a sign of stronger business activity and investor confidence, it also contributes to foreign exchange outflows at a time when Pakistan continues efforts to stabilize reserves and strengthen its external account position.

In the currency market, the Pakistani rupee edged up slightly, gaining Rs. 0.03 to close at 278.57 against the US dollar in interbank trading. Gold prices in the local market remained unchanged at Rs. 477,162 per tola despite a decline in international bullion rates driven by a stronger dollar and ongoing global inflation concerns.