By Azeem Ahmed Khan

Pakistan’s food group imports during July–February FY2025-26 increased to $6.41 billion, up from $5.41 billion in the same period last year, registering a rise of 18.42%, according to data released by the Ministry of Commerce.

Among major import categories, palm oil remained the largest contributor, with value rising by 21.53% to $2.74 billion, while quantities increased by 14.95%. Tea imports also grew, rising 4.72% in value to $437.99 million, with quantities up 7.24%.

Spices imports increased by 10.06% in value to $168.32 million, despite a slight decline of 1.16% in quantity, while unit value rose by 11.36%. Similarly, dry fruit imports grew by 5.23% in value to $122.65 million, although quantities declined by 9.01%, with unit value increasing by 15.65%.

Milk cream and infant food imports rose by 3.63% in value to $94.41 million, with quantities increasing by 9.74%.

Sugar imports rose sharply to $174.71 million from $2.45 million in the same period last year, reflecting a substantial increase in both value and quantity.

On the other hand, soybean oil imports declined significantly by 47.17% in value to $106.37 million, with quantities falling by 50.86%. Pulse imports also decreased by 22.37% in value and 9.71% in quantity.

Wheat imports were recorded at zero during the period, compared to a marginal level last year.

Overall, the data shows changes across food import categories during the period, with increases in some items and declines in others.

Credit: INP-WealthPk