Pakistan records FDI of $167.64m in March

April 16, 2026 (MLN): Pakistan recorded a net foreign direct investment (FDI) inflow of $167.64 million in March 2026, significantly higher than $63.67 million in the same period last year, according to data released by the State Bank of Pakistan.

On a month-on-month basis, however, inflows eased sharply from $385 million recorded in February.

Cumulatively during 9MFY26, Pakistan attracted $1.35 billion in FDI, compared with $1.86 billion in the same period last fiscal year, indicating a moderation in overall foreign investment momentum.

Within direct investment flows, gross inflows stood at $303.81 million in March, up 14.36% year-on-year, while outflows declined 32.58% to $136.17 million.

However, portfolio flows remained under pressure. Foreign investment in equity securities recorded an outflow of $184.66 million, compared to an outflow of $15.32 million in March 2025.

As a result, foreign private investment turned negative at $17.02 million during the month, compared with a positive $48.35 million a year earlier.

Foreign public investment also posted net outflows of $268.33 million through equity securities, contributing to total foreign divestment of $285.35 million in March, sharply higher than $67.73 million in the same month last year.

On a cumulative basis, total foreign investment during 9MFY26 stood at $410.74 million, compared with $1.51 billion in the corresponding period of the previous year, reflecting continued volatility in portfolio flows despite relative stability in direct investment.

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