KARACHI — Foreign exchange reserves held by the State Bank of Pakistan stood at $21.4 billion on September 18, 2026, according to the central bank’s published figures.
Commercial banks held another $5.41 billion, bringing Pakistan’s total liquid foreign exchange reserves to approximately $26.81 billion.
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif highlighted the State Bank’s $21.4 billion reserve figure while speaking virtually at an event at the Pakistan Stock Exchange in Karachi.
Foreign exchange reserves are funds held in foreign currencies that help Pakistan meet international payments, including imports and external debt obligations.
A stronger reserve position provides an important financial buffer. It can help the country manage unexpected increases in import costs or changes in international financial conditions.
The State Bank’s reserves and the foreign currency held by commercial banks are reported separately. The $21.4 billion figure refers to the central bank alone, while $26.81 billion represents their combined holdings on the reporting date.
During his remarks, the prime minister also emphasised the importance of expanding exports and referred to overseas remittances, information technology exports and Roshan Digital Accounts.
These sources of foreign currency play an important role in Pakistan’s economy. Export earnings and money sent home by overseas Pakistanis help pay for imported goods and support external finances.
The latest official figures show that Pakistan’s combined foreign exchange reserves stood above $26 billion, with the State Bank holding the largest share.