Pakistan’s exports of non-textile goods fell by about 17.32 percent in the first seven months of fiscal year 2025-26, reaching $7.286 billion, according to official trade numbers.
This drop is mainly due to weak performance in agricultural exports, especially rice. Analysts say this decline highlights the challenge Pakistan faces in diversifying its export base beyond traditional commodities.
The table below shows some of the key export figures in non-textile categories:
| Export Category | Value (7MFY26) | Change (%) |
|---|---|---|
| Total non-textile | $7.286bn | -17.32 |
| Rice | (included above) | -40.51 |
| Engineering goods | (part) | +5.85 |
| Cement | (part) | +9.91 |
| Footwear | (part) | +3.51 |
Rice exports were hit hardest, recording a drop of over 40 percent. This decline came from both weaker global demand and lower prices for rice. Volumes also shrank sharply, meaning Pakistan shipped much less rice than in the same period last year.
Despite the overall drop, some sectors managed to grow. Engineering goods saw an increase of about 5.85 percent, supported by higher shipments of industrial machinery, transport equipment, auto parts, and other manufactured items.
Cement exports also recorded nearly 9.91 percent growth in value, despite challenges such as the closure of the Torkham border, which affected shipments to Afghanistan. Footwear exports rose modestly.
Business groups warn that the weakness in non-textile exports reflects deeper structural problems in Pakistan’s trade performance. They say that relying on raw commodities and low-value products makes the country vulnerable to price swings and weak global demand.
Experts argue that a sustained shift toward value-added and engineered goods is necessary for long-term export growth. Improving quality, expanding markets, and investing in manufacturing could help Pakistan compete more effectively in global markets.