April 19, 2021 (MLN): Foreign direct investment in Pakistan stood at $167.6 million during March 2021, showing an increase of 8% MoM against the net inflow of $155 million recorded in February 2021.
However, it fell by 40% YoY when compared to the net investment of $278.7 million during March 2020.
According to the data compiled by the State Bank of Pakistan, FDI plunged by 35% YoY to $1.40 billion during 9MFY21, i.e., July to March, as compared to FDI of $2.15 billion reported in the corresponding period last year.
Country-wise, China remained the largest investor with a net FDI of $126 million during March 2021 followed by UAE with $13.1 million.
During the month of March, the Foreign Private Investment into the country amounted to $158.7 million, out of which, $167.6 million was attributed to Direct Investments, whereas disinvestment of $8.8 million was attributed to Equity Securities i.e., a part of Portfolio Investments.
Within the Direct Investments, there was an inflow of $253.2 million and an outflow of $85.7 million during the month.
Under the Foreign Public Investment, $128.6 million worth of investment witnessed in debt securities during March 2021 against the disinvestment of $1.83 billion recorded in March 2020.
All in all, the Foreign Investments in Pakistan during the month amounted to $287.4 million when compared to net outflows of $1.63 billion recorded in March 2020.