Economic and Political Overview

Pakistan: Economic and Political Overview

In this page: Economic Indicators | Foreign Trade in Figures | Sources of General Economic Information | Political Outline | COVID-19 Country Response

Economic Indicators

For the latest updates on the key economic responses from governments to address the economic impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, please consult the IMF's policy tracking platform Policy Responses to COVID-19.

Pakistan has achieved steady growth since 2013 in the aftermath of a credit facility agreement with the IMF. Economic growth slowed in recent years due to measures taken by the authorities to address macroeconomic imbalances and turned negative in the aftermath of the COVID-19 pandemic. According to the IMF's estimates, growth resumed in 2021, reaching 3.9%, and should follow an upward trend over the forecast horizon, at 4% this year and 4.5% in 2023. Private consumption (around four-fifths of GDP) has benefited from the fiscal support plan for households and from foreign remittances. Furthermore, the industrial sector performed above expectation in the period Apr-June.

Concerning public finances, the planned rebalancing of the public deficit that followed the conclusion of the agreement with the IMF worth USD 6 billion over 39 months has been halted by the crisis due to falling revenues and rising public expenditure. The federal budget deficit increased by 29% y-o-y to PKR 1.8 trillion (3.3% of GDP) in the first half of FY2022 (July-December 2021), despite a double-digit increase in revenues and a slowdown in public spending. Current expenditure accounted for 92% of total expenditure, of which 40% was spent on interests on loans. Public debt declined to 83.4% of GDP in 2021, and is expected to follow a downward trend over the forecast horizon (80.9% in 2022 and 75.8% next year – IMF). Massive rupee depreciation, persistent increase in the rates of agriculture commodities, and high prices of petroleum products were the main causes of high inflation, at 8.9% in 2021. The government has set the average inflation target for the FY2021-22 within the range of 7-9%, with the IMF forecasting a rate of 8.5% in 2022 followed by 7.6% in 2023.

Pakistan's unemployment rate increased slightly to 5% in 2021, from 4.1% before the pandemic, due to the negative economic impact of the COVID-19 pandemic. The IMF estimates that the rate will decrease to 4.8% this year and 4.7% in 2023. The number of people no longer actively seeking work is increasing. The level of underemployment remains very high and much of the economy is informal. While the poverty rate has fallen by 40% over the last two decades, it is still high: using the lower-middle-income poverty rate of USD 3.2 per day, in fact, the World Bank calculated that Pakistan's poverty ratio stood at 39.3% in 2020-21.

Main Indicators	2020	2021	2022	2023	2024
GDP (billions USD)	300.41	348.23	376.49	0.00	0.00
GDP (Constant Prices, Annual % Change)	-0.9	5.7	6.0	3.5	4.2
GDP per Capita (USD)	1,377	1,564	1,658	0	0
General Government Gross Debt (in % of GDP)	79.6	74.9	77.8	71.1	66.0
Inflation Rate (%)	10.7	8.9	12.1	19.9	10.0
Unemployment Rate (% of the Labour Force)	6.6	6.3	6.2	6.4	6.2
Current Account (billions USD)	-4.45	-2.82	-17.32	0.00	0.00
Current Account (in % of GDP)	-1.5	-0.8	-4.6	-2.5	-2.5

Source: IMF – World Economic Outlook Database , Latest available data

Note: (e) Estimated Data

Main Sectors of Industry

The agricultural sector is the main pillar of the Pakistani workforce. It contributes to 22.7% of the GDP and employs 36.9% of the active population. Wheat, rice, cotton, sugarcane, fruits, vegetables and tobacco are among the major crops. Cattle livestock farming remains important as the country is among the top 10 beef and veal producers in the world. However, its contribution to exports remains limited after years of export ban. Pakistan is the 4th largest cotton producer in the world and has abundant natural resources, mainly copper, oil and gas. The Pakistan Bureau of Statistics estimates 2020-21 rice production at 8419.7 thousand tonnes (+13.5% y-o-y), whereas wheat production stood at 27464.1 thousand tonnes (+8.7% y-o-y).

The industrial sector contributes to 18.3% of the GDP and employs 25.8% of the population. The major industries are textile production (the largest source of foreign exchange revenue), oil refining, metal processing, and the production of cement and fertilisers. Maritime transport is also a significant activity; however, the market is dominated by foreign shipping companies and the state-owned Pakistan National Shipping Corporation (PNSC). The manufacturing sector accounts for 11.5% of GDP (World Bank). Total industrial manufacturing production increased by 4.2% year-on-year in the first eleven months of 2021 (data Pakistan Bureau of Statistics).

The tertiary sector contributes to 52.8% of the GDP and employs more than one-third of the workforce (38.1%). The IT sector is growing rapidly, contributing around 1% of GDP and accounting for 3.5% of exports. Remittances from Pakistanis working abroad represent a considerable financial income for the country. During the period July-March of FY2021, the services sector grew 4.4% (Ministry of Finance).

Breakdown of Economic Activity By Sector	Agriculture	Industry	Services
Employment By Sector (in % of Total Employment)	36.9	25.0	38.1
Value Added (in % of GDP)	22.7	18.8	52.1
Value Added (Annual % Change)	3.5	7.8	6.0

Source: World Bank - Latest available data.

Find more information about your business sector on our service Market Reports.

Monetary Indicators	2016	2017	2018	2019	2020
Pakistani Rupee (PKR) - Average Annual Exchange Rate For 1 MUR	2.95	3.06	3.59	3.85	4.02

Source: World Bank - Latest available data.

Find out all the exchange rates daily on our service Currency Converter.

Indicator of Economic Freedom

Definition

Definition:

The Economic freedom index measure ten components of economic freedom, grouped into four broad categories or pillars of economic freedom: Rule of Law (property rights, freedom from corruption); Limited Government (fiscal freedom, government spending); Regulatory Efficiency (business freedom, labour freedom, monetary freedom); and Open Markets (trade freedom, investment freedom, financial freedom). Each of the freedoms within these four broad categories is individually scored on a scale of 0 to 100. A country’s overall economic freedom score is a simple average of its scores on the 10 individual freedoms.

Score:: 51,7/100
World Rank:: 152
Regional Rank:: 34

Economic freedom in the world (interactive map)
Source: Index of Economic Freedom, Heritage Foundation

Business environment ranking

Definition

Definition:

The business rankings model measures the quality or attractiveness of the business environment in the 82 countries covered by The Economist Intelligence Unit’s Country Forecast reports. It examines ten separate criteria or categories, covering the political environment, the macroeconomic environment, market opportunities, policy towards free enterprise and competition, policy towards foreign investment, foreign trade and exchange controls, taxes, financing, the labour market and infrastructure.

Score:: 4.62/10
World Rank:: 74/82

Source: The Economist Intelligence Unit - Business Environment Rankings 2020-2024

Country Risk

See the country risk analysis provided by Coface.

Foreign Trade in Figures

The share of foreign trade in Pakistan's GDP continues to be low, at 29% (World Bank, latest data available). Despite economic and political difficulties, Pakistan has taken steps to liberalise its trade and investment framework as part of commitments made with the WTO, IMF and the World Bank. Textile products accounted by far for the largest share of exports (around 60%, mostly comprising linen, clothing and cotton), followed by rice (9.4%). In regards to imports, the largest item was petroleum products, followed by palm oil, telephones and ferrous waste (Comtrade).

The United States is the top destination for Pakistani exports (18.6%, mainly textile), followed by China (8.4%), the United Kingdom (7.8%), and Germany (6.3%). China is by far the largest supplier of goods and services in Pakistan (27.3%), followed by the United Arab Emirates (9.8%), the United States (5.6%), Indonesia (5.3%), and Saudi Arabia (4.1%). The free trade agreement (FTA) with China has been detrimental to Pakistani manufacturing exports, which have declined continuously in recent years, and local businesses worry the completion of China–Pakistan Economic Corridor would further increase the share of Chinese products in the domestic market. As talks with the GCC stalled, Pakistan is now pursuing individual trade agreements with Saudi, the UAE and Oman. Moreover, Pakistan and Qatar have agreed in principle on a preferential trade agreement (PTA) and a free trade agreement (FTA) to enhance bilateral trade.

Pakistan's trade structure has been structurally in deficit, with exports remaining sluggish on the back of low global demand for Pakistani crops. Imports of goods reached USD 45.8 billion in 2020, while exports were only USD 21.9 billion. Concerning the trade of services, imports were USD 7.3 billion, whereas exports amounted to USD 4.3 billion. Overall imports decreased at a faster pace than exports, resulting in a reduced trade deficit of 7.4% of GDO (from 10.1% one year earlier – World Bank). The latest figures from the Bureau of Statistics show that in the first six months of FY2022 (Jul-Dec 2021), exports of goods reached USD 15.1 billion (+24.9% y-o-y), against USD 40.6 billion of imports (+66.2% y-o-y, driven by rising global fuel and food prices and purchases of COVID-19 vaccines).

Foreign Trade Indicators	2017	2018	2019	2020	2021
Imports of Goods (million USD)	57,746	60,078	50,332	45,804	72,515
Exports of Goods (million USD)	21,725	23,425	23,329	21,961	28,319
Imports of Services (million USD)	9,858	11,130	9,724	7,306	9,806
Exports of Services (million USD)	3,914	4,695	4,656	4,378	6,498
Imports of Goods and Services (Annual % Change)	19.0	15.7	7.6	-5.1	14.5
Exports of Goods and Services (Annual % Change)	2.5	10.0	13.2	1.5	6.5
Imports of Goods and Services (in % of GDP)	17.3	19.0	19.5	17.4	18.0
Exports of Goods and Services (in % of GDP)	8.2	8.6	9.4	9.3	9.1
Trade Balance (million USD)	-29,594	-31,911	-22,881	-22,172	-37,518
Trade Balance (Including Service) (million USD)	-35,007	-37,648	-27,306	-24,765	-40,826
Foreign Trade (in % of GDP)	25.5	27.6	28.9	26.7	27.1

Source: WTO – World Trade Organisation ; World Bank , Latest Available Data

Main Partner Countries

Main Customers (% of Exports)	2021
United States	21.1%
China	10.5%
United Kingdom	7.3%
Germany	5.4%
Netherlands	4.9%
United Arab Emirates	4.1%
Spain	3.5%
Italy	3.1%
Afghanistan	2.9%
Bangladesh	2.8%
Belgium	2.5%
France	1.6%
Qatar	1.4%
Saudi Arabia	1.4%
Malaysia	1.3%
Canada	1.3%
Sri Lanka	1.2%
Poland	1.1%
Australia	1.0%
Türkiye	1.0%
See More Countries	50.8%

Main Suppliers (% of Imports)	2021
China	28.3%
United Arab Emirates	10.1%
Indonesia	5.8%
United States	5.3%
Saudi Arabia	5.2%
Qatar	3.7%
Kuwait	3.1%
Japan	3.0%
South Africa	2.4%
Thailand	2.3%
South Korea	2.1%
Brazil	2.0%
Malaysia	1.8%
Germany	1.4%
Singapore	1.2%
United Kingdom	1.0%
Ukraine	1.0%
Australia	0.9%
Iran	0.9%
Afghanistan	0.9%
See More Countries	45.4%

Source: Comtrade, Latest Available Data

Main Products

28.8 bn USD of products exported in 2021
Bedlinen, table linen, toilet linen and kitchen...Bedlinen, table linen, toilet linen and kitchen linen of all types of textile materials (excl. floorcloths, polishing cloths, dishcloths and dusters)	14.8%
Men's or boys' suits, ensembles, jackets, blazers,...Men's or boys' suits, ensembles, jackets, blazers, trousers, bib and brace overalls, breeches and shorts (excl. knitted or crocheted, wind-jackets and similar articles, separate waistcoats, tracksuits, ski suits and swimwear)	9.5%
RiceRice	7.5%
Cotton yarn other than sewing thread, containing >...Cotton yarn other than sewing thread, containing >= 85% cotton by weight (excl. that put up for retail sale)	4.0%
Woven fabrics of cotton, containing >= 85% cotton...Woven fabrics of cotton, containing >= 85% cotton by weight and weighing > 200 g/m²	3.0%
Men's or boys' suits, ensembles, jackets, blazers,...Men's or boys' suits, ensembles, jackets, blazers, trousers, bib and brace overalls, breeches and shorts (excl. wind-jackets and similar articles, separate waistcoats, tracksuits, ski suits and swimwear)	2.9%
Jerseys, pullovers, cardigans, waistcoats and...Jerseys, pullovers, cardigans, waistcoats and similar articles, knitted or crocheted (excl. wadded waistcoats)	2.8%
Woven fabrics of cotton, containing >= 85% cotton...Woven fabrics of cotton, containing >= 85% cotton by weight and weighing <= 200 g/m²	2.3%
Articles of apparel and clothing accessories, of...Articles of apparel and clothing accessories, of leather or composition leather (excl. footware and headgear and parts thereof, and goods of chapter 95, e.g. shin guards, fencing masks)	2.3%
T-shirts, singlets and other vests, knitted or...T-shirts, singlets and other vests, knitted or crocheted	2.1%
Copper, refined, and copper alloys, unwrought ...Copper, refined, and copper alloys, unwrought (excl. copper alloys of heading 7405)	2.1%
Men's or boys' shirts, knitted or crocheted (excl....Men's or boys' shirts, knitted or crocheted (excl. nightshirts, t-shirts, singlets and other vests)	2.1%
Pantyhose, tights, stockings, socks and other...Pantyhose, tights, stockings, socks and other hosiery, incl. graduated compression hosiery [e.g., stockings for varicose veins] and footwear without applied soles, knitted or crocheted (excl. for babies)	1.8%
Made-up articles of textile materials, incl. dress...Made-up articles of textile materials, incl. dress patterns, n.e.s.	1.8%
Instruments and appliances used in medical,...Instruments and appliances used in medical, surgical, dental or veterinary sciences, incl. scintigraphic apparatus, other electro-medical apparatus and sight-testing instruments, n.e.s.	1.5%
Undenatured ethyl alcohol of an alcoholic strength...Undenatured ethyl alcohol of an alcoholic strength of >= 80%; ethyl alcohol and other spirits, denatured, of any strength	1.4%
Women's or girls' suits, ensembles, jackets,...Women's or girls' suits, ensembles, jackets, blazers, dresses, skirts, divided skirts, trousers, bib and brace overalls, breeches and shorts (excl. knitted or crocheted, wind-jackets and similar articles, slips, petticoats and panties, tracksuits, ski suits and swimwear)	1.1%
Gloves, mittens and mitts, knitted or crocheted ...Gloves, mittens and mitts, knitted or crocheted (excl. for babies)	1.1%
Women's or girls' suits, ensembles, jackets,...Women's or girls' suits, ensembles, jackets, blazers, dresses, skirts, divided skirts, trousers, bib and brace overalls, breeches and shorts, knitted or crocheted (excl. wind-jackets and similar articles, slips, petticoats and panties, tracksuits, ski suits and swimwear)	1.1%
Woven fabrics of cotton, containing predominantly,...Woven fabrics of cotton, containing predominantly, but < 85% cotton by weight, mixed principally or solely with man-made fibres and weighing <= 200 g/m²	1.0%
Worn clothing and clothing accessories, blankets...Worn clothing and clothing accessories, blankets and travelling rugs, household linen and articles for interior furnishing, of all types of textile materials, incl. all types of footwear and headgear, showing signs of appreciable wear and presented in bulk or in bales, sacks or similar packings (excl. carpets, other floor coverings and tapestries)	1.0%
Cement, incl. cement clinkers, whether or not...Cement, incl. cement clinkers, whether or not coloured	0.9%
Meat of bovine animals, fresh or chilledMeat of bovine animals, fresh or chilled	0.9%
Cruise ships, excursion boats, ferry-boats, cargo...Cruise ships, excursion boats, ferry-boats, cargo ships, barges and similar vessels for the transport of persons or goods	0.9%
Articles and equipment for general physical...Articles and equipment for general physical exercise, gymnastics, athletics, other sports, incl. table-tennis, or outdoor games, not specified or included in this chapter or elsewhere; swimming pools and paddling pools.	0.8%
Medicaments consisting of mixed or unmixed...Medicaments consisting of mixed or unmixed products for therapeutic or prophylactic uses, put up in measured doses "incl. those in the form of transdermal administration" or in forms or packings for retail sale (excl. goods of heading 3002, 3005 or 3006)	0.8%
Other oil seeds and oleaginous fruits, whether or...Other oil seeds and oleaginous fruits, whether or not broken (excl. edible nuts, olives, soya beans, groundnuts, copra, linseed, rape or colza seeds and sunflower seeds)	0.8%
Dates, figs, pineapples, avocados, guavas, mangoes...Dates, figs, pineapples, avocados, guavas, mangoes and mangosteens, fresh or dried	0.8%
Woven fabrics containing predominantly, but < 85%...Woven fabrics containing predominantly, but < 85% synthetic staple fibres by weight, mixed principally or solely with cotton and weighing <= 170 g/m²	0.7%
Mattress supports (excl. spring interiors for...Mattress supports (excl. spring interiors for seats); articles of bedding and similar furnishing, e.g. mattresses, quilts, eiderdowns, cushions, pouffes and pillows, fitted with springs or stuffed or internally filled with any material or of cellular rubber or plastics, whether or not covered (excl. pneumatic or water mattresses and pillows, blankets and covers)	0.7%
Woven fabrics of cotton, containing predominantly,...Woven fabrics of cotton, containing predominantly, but < 85% cotton by weight, mixed principally or solely with man-made fibres and weighing > 200 g/m²	0.6%
Petroleum oils and oils obtained from bituminous...Petroleum oils and oils obtained from bituminous minerals, crude	0.6%
Citrus fruit, fresh or driedCitrus fruit, fresh or dried	0.6%
Men's or boys' underpants, briefs, nightshirts,...Men's or boys' underpants, briefs, nightshirts, pyjamas, bathrobes, dressing gowns and similar articles, knitted or crocheted (excl. vests and singlets)	0.6%
Onions, shallots, garlic, leeks and other...Onions, shallots, garlic, leeks and other alliaceous vegetables, fresh or chilled	0.5%
Polyacetals, other polyethers and epoxide resins,...Polyacetals, other polyethers and epoxide resins, in primary forms; polycarbonates, alkyd resins, polyallyl esters and other polyesters, in primary forms	0.5%
Copper, unrefined; copper anodes for electrolytic...Copper, unrefined; copper anodes for electrolytic refining	0.5%
Molluscs, fit for human consumption, even smoked,...Molluscs, fit for human consumption, even smoked, whether in shell or not, live, fresh, chilled, frozen, dried, salted or in brine; flours, meals and pellets of molluscs, fit for human consumption	0.4%
Woven fabrics of cotton, containing predominantly,...Woven fabrics of cotton, containing predominantly, but < 85% cotton by weight, other than those mixed principally or solely with man-made fibres	0.4%
Frozen fish (excl. fish fillets and other fish...Frozen fish (excl. fish fillets and other fish meat of heading 0304)	0.4%
Potatoes, fresh or chilledPotatoes, fresh or chilled	0.4%
Footwear with outer soles of rubber, plastics,...Footwear with outer soles of rubber, plastics, leather or composition leather and uppers of leather (excl. orthopaedic footwear, skating boots with ice or roller skates attached, and toy footwear)	0.4%
Maize or cornMaize or corn	0.4%
Curtains, incl. drapes, and interior blinds;...Curtains, incl. drapes, and interior blinds; curtain or bed valances of all types of textile materials (excl. awnings and sunblinds)	0.4%
Tarpaulins, awnings and sunblinds; tents; sails...Tarpaulins, awnings and sunblinds; tents; sails for boats, sailboards or landcraft; camping goods of all types of textile materials (excl. flat protective coverings of light woven fabrics; umbrella and play tents; rucksacks, napsacks and similar containers; sleeping bags, mattresses and pillows, incl. their fillings)	0.4%
Leather further prepared after tanning or crusting...Leather further prepared after tanning or crusting "incl. parchment-dressed leather", of bovine "incl. buffalo" or equine animals, without hair on, whether or not split (excl. chamois leather, patent leather and patent laminated leather, and metallised leather)	0.4%
Men's or boys' singlets and other vests,...Men's or boys' singlets and other vests, underpants, briefs, nightshirts, pyjamas, bathrobes, dressing gowns and similar articles (excl. knitted or crocheted)	0.4%
Crustaceans, whether in shell or not, live, fresh,...Crustaceans, whether in shell or not, live, fresh, chilled, frozen, dried, salted or in brine, even smoked, incl. crustaceans in shell cooked by steaming or by boiling in water; flours, meals and pellets of crustaceans, fit for human consumption	0.4%
Chromium ores and concentratesChromium ores and concentrates	0.3%
Ginger, saffron, turmeric "curcuma", thyme, bay...Ginger, saffron, turmeric "curcuma", thyme, bay leaves, curry and other spices (excl. pepper of the genus piper, fruit of the genus capsicum or of the genus pimenta, vanilla, cinnamon, cinnamontree flowers, cloves [wholefruit], clove stems, nutmeg, mace, cardamoms, seeds of anise, badian, fennel, coriander, cumin and caraway, and juniper berries)	0.3%
Woven fabrics containing predominantly, but < 85%...Woven fabrics containing predominantly, but < 85% synthetic staple fibres by weight, mixed principally or solely with cotton and weighing > 170 g/m²	0.3%
Sugar confectionery not containing cocoa, incl....Sugar confectionery not containing cocoa, incl. white chocolate	0.3%
Polymers of styrene, in primary formsPolymers of styrene, in primary forms	0.3%
Articles for interior furnishing, of all types of...Articles for interior furnishing, of all types of textile materials (excl. blankets and travelling rugs, bedlinen, table linen, toilet linen, kitchen linen, curtains, incl. drapes, interior blinds, curtain or bed valances, lampshades and articles of heading 9404)	0.3%
Food preparations, n.e.s.Food preparations, n.e.s.	0.3%
Women's or girls' blouses, shirts and...Women's or girls' blouses, shirts and shirt-blouses, knitted or crocheted (excl. t-shirts and vests)	0.3%
Unwrought aluminiumUnwrought aluminium	0.3%
Dried apricots, prunes, apples, peaches, pears,...Dried apricots, prunes, apples, peaches, pears, papaws "papayas", tamarinds and other edible fruits, and mixtures of edible and dried fruits or of edible nuts (excl. nuts, bananas, dates, figs, pineapples, avocados, guavas, mangoes, mangosteens, citrus fruit and grapes, unmixed)	0.3%
Animal or vegetable fats and oils and their...Animal or vegetable fats and oils and their fractions, partly or wholly hydrogenated, inter-esterified, re-esterified or elaidinised, whether or not refined, but not further prepared	0.3%
Woven fabrics containing >= 85% synthetic staple...Woven fabrics containing >= 85% synthetic staple fibres by weight	0.3%
Carpets and other textile floor coverings, of...Carpets and other textile floor coverings, of textile materials, knotted, whether or not made up	0.3%
Natural steatite, whether or not roughly trimmed...Natural steatite, whether or not roughly trimmed or merely cut, by sawing or otherwise, into blocks or slabs of a square or rectangular shape; talc	0.2%
Plates, sheets, film, foil and strip, of...Plates, sheets, film, foil and strip, of non-cellular plastics, not reinforced, laminated, supported or similarly combined with other materials, without backing, unworked or merely surface-worked or merely cut into squares or rectangles (excl. self-adhesive products, and floor, wall and ceiling coverings of heading 3918)	0.2%
Cotton yarn containing predominantly, but < 85%...Cotton yarn containing predominantly, but < 85% cotton by weight (excl. sewing thread and yarn put up for retail sale)	0.2%
Articles of cutlery, n.e.s., e.g. hair clippers,...Articles of cutlery, n.e.s., e.g. hair clippers, butchers' or kitchen cleavers, choppers and mincing knives and paperknives of base metal; manicure or pedicure sets and instruments, incl. nail files, of base metal	0.2%
Salts, incl. table salt and denatured salt, and...Salts, incl. table salt and denatured salt, and pure sodium chloride, whether or not in aqueous solution or containing added anti-caking or free-flowing agents; sea water	0.2%
Babies' garments and clothing accessories, knitted...Babies' garments and clothing accessories, knitted or crocheted (excl. hats)	0.2%
Other sugars, incl. chemically pure lactose,...Other sugars, incl. chemically pure lactose, maltose, glucose and fructose, in solid form; sugar syrups not containing added flavouring or colouring matter; artificial honey, whether or not mixed with natural honey; caramel	0.2%
Flat-rolled products of iron or non-alloy steel,...Flat-rolled products of iron or non-alloy steel, of a width >= 600 mm, hot-rolled or cold-rolled "cold-reduced", clad, plated or coated	0.2%
Fabrics, knitted or crocheted, of a width of > 30...Fabrics, knitted or crocheted, of a width of > 30 cm (excl. warp knit fabrics "incl. those made on galloon knitting machines", those containing by weight >= 5% of elastomeric yarn or rubber thread, and pile fabrics, incl. "long pile", looped pile fabrics, labels, badges and similar articles, and knitted or crocheted fabrics, impregnated, coated, covered or laminated)	0.2%
Used or new rags, scrap twine, cordage, rope and...Used or new rags, scrap twine, cordage, rope and cables and worn-out articles thereof, of textile materials	0.2%
Tracksuits, ski suits, swimwear and other garments...Tracksuits, ski suits, swimwear and other garments, n.e.s. (excl. knitted or crocheted)	0.2%
Leather further prepared after tanning or crusting...Leather further prepared after tanning or crusting "incl. parchment-dressed leather", of goats or kids, pigs, reptiles and other animals, without wool or hair on, and leather of hairless animals, whether or not split (excl. leather of bovine and equine animals, sheep and lambs, and chamois leather, patent leather and patent laminated leather, and metallised leather)	0.2%
Tubes, pipes and hollow profiles "e.g., open seam...Tubes, pipes and hollow profiles "e.g., open seam or welded, riveted or similarly closed", of iron or steel (excl. of cast iron, seamless tubes and pipes and tubes having internal and external circular cross-sections and an external diameter of > 406,4 mm)	0.2%
Track-suits, ski-suits and swimwear, knitted or...Track-suits, ski-suits and swimwear, knitted or crocheted	0.2%
Sacks and bags, of a kind used for the packing of...Sacks and bags, of a kind used for the packing of goods, of all types of textile materials	0.2%
Cotton waste, incl. yarn waste and garnetted stockCotton waste, incl. yarn waste and garnetted stock	0.2%
Cereal straw and husks, unprepared, whether or not...Cereal straw and husks, unprepared, whether or not chopped, ground, pressed or in the form of pellets	0.2%
Men's or boys' overcoats, car coats, capes, cloaks...Men's or boys' overcoats, car coats, capes, cloaks, anoraks, incl. ski jackets, windcheaters, wind-jackets and similar articles, knitted or crocheted (excl. suits, ensembles, jackets, blazers, bib and brace overalls and trousers)	0.2%
Tractors (other than tractors of heading 8709)Tractors (other than tractors of heading 8709)	0.2%
Bread, pastry, cakes, biscuits and other bakers'...Bread, pastry, cakes, biscuits and other bakers' wares, whether or not containing cocoa; communion wafers, empty cachets of a kind suitable for pharmaceutical use, sealing wafers, rice paper and similar products	0.2%
Flours, meals and pellets, of meat or meat offal,...Flours, meals and pellets, of meat or meat offal, of fish or of crustaceans, molluscs or other aquatic invertebrates, unfit for human consumption; greaves	0.2%
Vegetable saps and extracts; pectic substances,...Vegetable saps and extracts; pectic substances, pectinates and pectates; agar-agar and other mucilages and thickeners derived from vegetable products, whether or not modified,	0.1%
Blankets and travelling rugs of all types of...Blankets and travelling rugs of all types of textile materials (excl. table covers, bedspreads and articles of bedding and similar furnishing of heading 9404)	0.1%
Powered aircraft "e.g. helicopters and aeroplanes...Powered aircraft "e.g. helicopters and aeroplanes"; spacecraft, incl. satellites, and suborbital and spacecraft launch vehicles	0.1%
Paper, paperboard, cellulose wadding and webs of...Paper, paperboard, cellulose wadding and webs of cellulose fibres, coated, impregnated, covered, surface-coloured, surface-decorated or printed, in rolls or in square or rectangular sheets, of any size (excl. goods of heading 4803, 4809 and 4810)	0.1%
Woven fabrics of synthetic filament yarn, incl....Woven fabrics of synthetic filament yarn, incl. monofilament of >= 67 decitex and with a cross sectional dimension of <= 1 mm	0.1%
Made-up clothing accessories, knitted or...Made-up clothing accessories, knitted or crocheted; knitted or crocheted parts of garments or of clothing accessories, n.e.s.	0.1%
Women's or girls' singlets and other vests, slips,...Women's or girls' singlets and other vests, slips, petticoats, briefs, panties, nightdresses, pyjamas, négligés, bathrobes, dressing gowns, housecoats and similar articles (excl. knitted or crocheted, brassières, girdles, corsets and similar articles)	0.1%
Air or vacuum pumps (excl. gas compound elevators...Air or vacuum pumps (excl. gas compound elevators and pneumatic elevators and conveyors); air or other gas compressors and fans; ventilating or recycling hoods incorporating a fan, whether or not fitted with filters; parts thereof	0.1%
Iron ores and concentrates, incl. roasted iron...Iron ores and concentrates, incl. roasted iron pyrites	0.1%
Trunks, suitcases, vanity cases, executive-cases,...Trunks, suitcases, vanity cases, executive-cases, briefcases, school satchels, spectacle cases, binocular cases, camera cases, musical instrument cases, gun cases, holsters and similar containers; travelling-bags, insulated food or beverage bags, toilet bags, rucksacks, handbags, shopping-bags, wallets, purses, map-cases, cigarette-cases, tobacco-pouches, tool bags, sports bags, bottle-cases, jewellery boxes, powder-boxes, cutlery cases and similar containers, of leather or of composition leather, of sheeting of plastics, of textile materials, of vulcanised fibre or of paperboard, or wholly or mainly covered with such materials or with paper	0.1%
Meat of sheep or goats, fresh, chilled or frozenMeat of sheep or goats, fresh, chilled or frozen	0.1%
Men's or boys' overcoats, car coats, capes, cloaks...Men's or boys' overcoats, car coats, capes, cloaks, anoraks, incl. ski jackets, windcheaters, wind-jackets and similar articles (excl. knitted or crocheted, suits, ensembles, jackets, blazers and trousers)	0.1%
Waste and scrap, of copper (excl. ingots or other...Waste and scrap, of copper (excl. ingots or other similar unwrought shapes, of remelted copper waste and scrap, ashes and residues containing copper, and waste and scrap of primary cells, primary batteries and electric accumulators)	0.1%
Guts, bladders and stomachs of animals (other than...Guts, bladders and stomachs of animals (other than fish), whole and pieces thereof, fresh, chilled, frozen, salted, in brine, dried or smoked	0.1%
Gloves, mittens and mitts, of all types of textile...Gloves, mittens and mitts, of all types of textile materials (excl. knitted or crocheted and for babies)	0.1%
Women's or girls' slips, petticoats, briefs,...Women's or girls' slips, petticoats, briefs, panties, nightdresses, pyjamas, négligés, bathrobes, dressing gowns, housecoats and similar articles, knitted or crocheted (excl. t-shirts, vests, brassieres, girdles, corsets and similar articles)	0.1%
Bars, rods and profiles, of copper, n.e.s.Bars, rods and profiles, of copper, n.e.s.	0.1%
See More Products	61.1%

72.9 bn USD of products imported in 2021
Petroleum oils and oils obtained from bituminous...Petroleum oils and oils obtained from bituminous minerals (excl. crude); preparations containing >= 70% by weight of petroleum oils or of oils obtained from bituminous minerals, these oils being the basic constituents of the preparations, n.e.s.; waste oils containing mainly petroleum or bituminous minerals	11.0%
Petroleum gas and other gaseous hydrocarbonsPetroleum gas and other gaseous hydrocarbons	6.3%
Petroleum oils and oils obtained from bituminous...Petroleum oils and oils obtained from bituminous minerals, crude	5.8%
Palm oil and its fractions, whether or not refined...Palm oil and its fractions, whether or not refined (excl. chemically modified)	4.7%
Human blood; animal blood prepared for therapeutic...Human blood; animal blood prepared for therapeutic, prophylactic or diagnostic uses; antisera and other blood fractions and immunological products, whether or not modified or obtained by means of biotechnological processes; vaccines, toxins, cultures of micro-organisms (excl. yeasts) and similar products	4.5%
Telephone sets, incl. telephones for cellular...Telephone sets, incl. telephones for cellular networks or for other wireless networks; other apparatus for the transmission or reception of voice, images or other data, incl. apparatus for communication in a wired or wireless network [such as a local or wide area network]; parts thereof (excl. than transmission or reception apparatus of heading 8443, 8525, 8527 or 8528)	3.6%
Coal; briquettes, ovoids and similar solid fuels...Coal; briquettes, ovoids and similar solid fuels manufactured from coal	3.2%
Motor cars and other motor vehicles principally...Motor cars and other motor vehicles principally designed for the transport of persons, incl. station wagons and racing cars (excl. motor vehicles of heading 8702)	3.1%
Ferrous waste and scrap; remelting scrap ingots of...Ferrous waste and scrap; remelting scrap ingots of iron or steel (excl. slag, scale and other waste from the production of iron or steel; radioactive waste and scrap; fragments of pigs, blocks or other primary forms of pig iron or spiegeleisen)	3.0%
Cotton, neither carded nor combedCotton, neither carded nor combed	2.4%
Soya beans, whether or not brokenSoya beans, whether or not broken	1.9%
Flat-rolled products of iron or non-alloy steel,...Flat-rolled products of iron or non-alloy steel, of a width >= 600 mm, hot-rolled, not clad, plated or coated	1.3%
Polymers of propylene or of other olefins, in...Polymers of propylene or of other olefins, in primary forms	1.3%
Polymers of ethylene, in primary formsPolymers of ethylene, in primary forms	1.2%
Wheat and meslinWheat and meslin	1.1%
Electric generating sets and rotary convertersElectric generating sets and rotary converters	1.1%
Mineral or chemical fertilisers containing two or...Mineral or chemical fertilisers containing two or three of the fertilising elements nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium; other fertilisers (excl. pure animal or vegetable fertilisers or mineral or chemical nitrogenous, phosphatic or potassic fertilisers); animal, vegetable, mineral or chemical fertilisers in tablets or similar forms or in packages of a gross weight of <= 10 kg	1.1%
Dried leguminous vegetables, shelled, whether or...Dried leguminous vegetables, shelled, whether or not skinned or split	1.0%
Tea, whether or not flavouredTea, whether or not flavoured	0.8%
Vessels and other floating structures for breaking...Vessels and other floating structures for breaking up	0.8%
Diodes, transistors and similar semiconductor...Diodes, transistors and similar semiconductor devices; photosensitive semiconductor devices, incl. photovoltaic cells whether or not assembled in modules or made up into panels (excl. photovotaic generators); light emitting diodes; mounted piezoelectric crystals; parts thereof	0.8%
Synthetic filament yarn, incl. synthetic...Synthetic filament yarn, incl. synthetic monofilaments of < 67 decitex (excl. sewing thread and yarn put up for retail sale)	0.7%
Rape or colza seeds, whether or not brokenRape or colza seeds, whether or not broken	0.7%
Artificial staple fibres, not carded, combed or...Artificial staple fibres, not carded, combed or otherwise processed for spinning	0.7%
Medicaments consisting of mixed or unmixed...Medicaments consisting of mixed or unmixed products for therapeutic or prophylactic uses, put up in measured doses "incl. those in the form of transdermal administration" or in forms or packings for retail sale (excl. goods of heading 3002, 3005 or 3006)	0.7%
Cyclic hydrocarbonsCyclic hydrocarbons	0.6%
Flat-rolled products of alloy steel other than...Flat-rolled products of alloy steel other than stainless, of a width of >= 600 mm, hot-rolled or cold-rolled "cold-reduced"	0.6%
Acyclic alcohols and their halogenated,...Acyclic alcohols and their halogenated, sulphonated, nitrated or nitrosated derivatives	0.6%
Automatic data-processing machines and units...Automatic data-processing machines and units thereof; magnetic or optical readers, machines for transcribing data onto data media in coded form and machines for processing such data, n.e.s.	0.6%
Diphosphorus pentaoxide; phosphoric acid;...Diphosphorus pentaoxide; phosphoric acid; polyphosphoric acids, whether or not chemically defined	0.6%
Air or vacuum pumps (excl. gas compound elevators...Air or vacuum pumps (excl. gas compound elevators and pneumatic elevators and conveyors); air or other gas compressors and fans; ventilating or recycling hoods incorporating a fan, whether or not fitted with filters; parts thereof	0.6%
Electrical transformers, static converters, e.g....Electrical transformers, static converters, e.g. rectifiers, and inductors; parts thereof	0.6%
Worn clothing and clothing accessories, blankets...Worn clothing and clothing accessories, blankets and travelling rugs, household linen and articles for interior furnishing, of all types of textile materials, incl. all types of footwear and headgear, showing signs of appreciable wear and presented in bulk or in bales, sacks or similar packings (excl. carpets, other floor coverings and tapestries)	0.6%
Steam or other vapour generating boilers (excl....Steam or other vapour generating boilers (excl. central heating hot water boilers capable also of producing low pressure steam); superheated water boilers; parts thereof	0.5%
Flat-rolled products of iron or non-alloy steel,...Flat-rolled products of iron or non-alloy steel, of a width >= 600 mm, hot-rolled or cold-rolled "cold-reduced", clad, plated or coated	0.5%
Motor vehicles for the transport of goods, incl....Motor vehicles for the transport of goods, incl. chassis with engine and cab	0.4%
New pneumatic tyres, of rubberNew pneumatic tyres, of rubber	0.4%
Parts and accessories for tractors, motor vehicles...Parts and accessories for tractors, motor vehicles for the transport of ten or more persons, motor cars and other motor vehicles principally designed for the transport of persons, motor vehicles for the transport of goods and special purpose motor vehicles of heading 8701 to 8705, n.e.s.	0.4%
Machines for preparing textile fibres; spinning,...Machines for preparing textile fibres; spinning, doubling or twisting machines and other machinery for producing textile yarns (excl. machines of heading 8444); textile reeling or winding, incl. weft-winding, machines, and machines for preparing textile yarns for use on the machines of heading 8446 or 8447	0.4%
Instruments and appliances used in medical,...Instruments and appliances used in medical, surgical, dental or veterinary sciences, incl. scintigraphic apparatus, other electro-medical apparatus and sight-testing instruments, n.e.s.	0.4%
Synthetic organic colouring matter, whether or not...Synthetic organic colouring matter, whether or not chemically defined; preparations based on synthetic organic colouring matter of a kind used to dye fabrics or produce colorant preparations; synthetic organic products of a kind used as fluorescent brightening agents or as luminophores, whether or not chemically defined (excl. preparations of heading 3207, 3208, 3209, 3210, 3213 and 3215)	0.4%
Machinery, plant or laboratory equipment whether...Machinery, plant or laboratory equipment whether or not electrically heated (excl. furnaces, ovens and other equipment of heading 8514), for the treatment of materials by a process involving a change of temperature such as heating, cooking, roasting, distilling, rectifying, sterilising, pasteurising, steaming, drying, evaporating, vaporising, condensing or cooling (excl. those used for domestic purposes); instantaneous or storage water heaters, non-electric; parts thereof	0.4%
Polyacetals, other polyethers and epoxide resins,...Polyacetals, other polyethers and epoxide resins, in primary forms; polycarbonates, alkyd resins, polyallyl esters and other polyesters, in primary forms	0.3%
Heterocyclic compounds with nitrogen hetero-atom[s...Heterocyclic compounds with nitrogen hetero-atom[s] only	0.3%
Centrifuges, incl. centrifugal dryers (excl. those...Centrifuges, incl. centrifugal dryers (excl. those for isotope separation); filtering or purifying machinery and apparatus, for liquids or gases; parts thereof (excl. artificial kidneys)	0.3%
Machines and mechanical appliances having...Machines and mechanical appliances having individual functions, not specified or included elsewhere in this chapter; parts thereof	0.3%
Synthetic staple fibres, not carded, combed or...Synthetic staple fibres, not carded, combed or otherwise processed for spinning	0.3%
Electric motors and generators (excl. generating...Electric motors and generators (excl. generating sets)	0.3%
Cane or beet sugar and chemically pure sucrose, in...Cane or beet sugar and chemically pure sucrose, in solid form	0.3%
Polycarboxylic acids, their anhydrides, halides,...Polycarboxylic acids, their anhydrides, halides, peroxides and peroxyacids; their halogenated, sulphonated, nitrated or nitrosated derivatives	0.3%
Turbojets, turbopropellers and other gas turbinesTurbojets, turbopropellers and other gas turbines	0.3%
Diagnostic or laboratory reagents on a backing,...Diagnostic or laboratory reagents on a backing, prepared diagnostic or laboratory reagents whether or not on a backing, and certified reference materials (excl. compound diagnostic reagents designed to be administered to the patient, blood-grouping reagents, animal blood prepared for therapeutic, prophylactic or diagnostic uses and vaccines, toxins, cultures of micro-organisms and similar products)	0.3%
Machinery for working rubber or plastics or for...Machinery for working rubber or plastics or for the manufacture of products from these materials, not specified or included elsewhere in this chapter, parts thereof	0.3%
Weaving machines "looms"Weaving machines "looms"	0.3%
Insecticides, rodenticides, fungicides, herbicides...Insecticides, rodenticides, fungicides, herbicides, anti-sprouting products and plant-growth regulators, disinfectants and similar products, put up for retail sale or as preparations or articles, e.g. sulphur-treated bands, wicks and candles, and fly-papers	0.3%
Air conditioning machines comprising a...Air conditioning machines comprising a motor-driven fan and elements for changing the temperature and humidity, incl. those machines in which the humidity cannot be separately regulated; parts thereof	0.2%
Machinery for sorting, screening, separating,...Machinery for sorting, screening, separating, washing, crushing, grinding, mixing or kneading earth, stone, ores or other mineral substances, in solid, incl. powder or paste, form; machinery for agglomerating, shaping or moulding solid mineral fuels, ceramic paste, unhardened cements, plastering materials or other mineral products in powder or paste form; machines for forming foundry moulds of sand; parts thereof	0.2%
Mixed alkylbenzenes and mixed alkylnaphthalenes...Mixed alkylbenzenes and mixed alkylnaphthalenes produced by the alkylation of benzene and naphthalene (excl. mixed isomers of cyclic hydrocarbons)	0.2%
Oxygen-function amino-compoundsOxygen-function amino-compounds	0.2%
Prepared binders for foundry moulds or cores;...Prepared binders for foundry moulds or cores; chemical products and preparations for the chemical or allied industries, incl. mixtures of natural products, n.e.s.	0.2%
AntibioticsAntibiotics	0.2%
Paper and paperboard, coated on one or both sides...Paper and paperboard, coated on one or both sides with kaolin "china clay" or other inorganic substances, with or without a binder, and with no other coating, whether or not surface-coloured, surface-decorated or printed, in rolls or in square or rectangular sheets, of any size (excl. all other coated papers and paperboards)	0.2%
Insulated "incl. enamelled or anodised" wire,...Insulated "incl. enamelled or anodised" wire, cable "incl. coaxial cable" and other insulated electric conductors, whether or not fitted with connectors; optical fibre cables, made up of individually sheathed fibres, whether or not assembled with electric conductors or fitted with connectors	0.2%
Flat-rolled products of iron or non-alloy steel,...Flat-rolled products of iron or non-alloy steel, of a width of >= 600 mm, cold-rolled "cold-reduced", not clad, plated or coated	0.2%
Chemical wood pulp, soda or sulphate (excl....Chemical wood pulp, soda or sulphate (excl. dissolving grades)	0.2%
Parts suitable for use solely or principally with...Parts suitable for use solely or principally with internal combustion piston engine of heading 8407 or 8408	0.2%
Flat-rolled products of stainless steel, of a...Flat-rolled products of stainless steel, of a width of >= 600 mm, hot-rolled or cold-rolled "cold-reduced"	0.2%
Motor vehicles for the transport of >= 10 persons,...Motor vehicles for the transport of >= 10 persons, incl. driver	0.2%
Pumps for liquids, whether or not fitted with a...Pumps for liquids, whether or not fitted with a measuring device (excl. ceramic pumps and secretion aspirating pumps for medical use and medical pumps carried on or implanted in the body); liquid elevators (excl. pumps); parts thereof	0.2%
Halogenated derivatives of hydrocarbonsHalogenated derivatives of hydrocarbons	0.2%
Artificial filament yarn, incl. artificial...Artificial filament yarn, incl. artificial monofilament of < 67 decitex (excl. sewing thread and yarn put up for retail sale)	0.2%
Discs, tapes, solid-state non-volatile storage...Discs, tapes, solid-state non-volatile storage devices, "smart cards" and other media for the recording of sound or of other phenomena, whether or not recorded, incl. matrices and masters for the production of discs (excl. products of chapter 37)	0.2%
Saturated acyclic monocarboxylic acids and their...Saturated acyclic monocarboxylic acids and their anhydrides, halides, peroxides and peroxyacids; their halogenated, sulphonated, nitrated or nitrosated derivatives	0.2%
Taps, cocks, valves and similar appliances for...Taps, cocks, valves and similar appliances for pipes, boiler shells, tanks, vats or the like, incl. pressure-reducing valves and thermostatically controlled valves; parts thereof	0.2%
Tubes, pipes and hollow profiles, seamless, of...Tubes, pipes and hollow profiles, seamless, of iron or steel (excl. products of cast iron)	0.2%
Steam turbines and other vapour turbines; parts...Steam turbines and other vapour turbines; parts thereof	0.2%
Amino-resins, phenolic resins and polyurethanes,...Amino-resins, phenolic resins and polyurethanes, in primary forms	0.2%
Structures and parts of structures "e.g., bridges...Structures and parts of structures "e.g., bridges and bridge-sections, lock-gates, towers, lattice masts, roofs, roofing frameworks, doors and windows and their frames and thresholds for doors, shutters, balustrades, pillars and columns", of iron or steel; plates, rods, angles, shapes, sections, tubes and the like, prepared for use in structures, of iron or steel (excl. prefabricated buildings of heading 9406)	0.2%
Malt extract; food preparations of flour, groats,...Malt extract; food preparations of flour, groats, meal, starch or malt extract, not containing cocoa or containing < 40% by weight of cocoa calculated on a totally defatted basis, n.e.s.; food preparations of milk, cream, butter milk, sour milk, sour cream, whey, yogurt, kephir, and similar goods of heading 0401 to 0404, not containing cocoa or containing < 5% by weight of cocoa calculated on a totally defatted basis, n.e.s.	0.2%
Synthetic rubber and factice derived from oils, in...Synthetic rubber and factice derived from oils, in primary forms or in plates, sheets or strip; mixtures of natural rubber, balata, gutta-percha, guayule, chicle or similar types of natural rubber with synthetic rubber or factice, in primary forms or in plates, sheets or strip	0.2%
Waste and scrap, of aluminium (excl. slags, scale...Waste and scrap, of aluminium (excl. slags, scale and the like from iron and steel production, containing recoverable aluminium in the form of silicates, ingots or other similar unwrought shapes, of remelted waste and scrap, of aluminium, ashes and residues from aluminium production)	0.2%
Mixtures of odoriferous substances and mixtures,...Mixtures of odoriferous substances and mixtures, incl. alcoholic solutions, based on one or more of these substances, of a kind used as raw materials in industry; other preparations based on odoriferous substances, of a kind used for the manufacture of beverages	0.2%
Pile fabrics, incl. "long pile" fabrics and terry...Pile fabrics, incl. "long pile" fabrics and terry fabrics, knitted or crocheted	0.2%
Organic surface-active agents (excl. soap);...Organic surface-active agents (excl. soap); surface-active preparations, washing preparations, incl. auxiliary washing preparations, and cleaning preparations, whether or not containing soap (excl. those of heading 3401)	0.2%
Unused postage, revenue or similar stamps of...Unused postage, revenue or similar stamps of current or new issue in the country in which they have, or will have, a recognised face value; stamp-impressed paper; banknotes; cheque forms; stock, share or bond certificates and similar documents of title	0.2%
Nucleic acids and their salts, whether or not...Nucleic acids and their salts, whether or not chemically defined; heterocyclic compounds (excl. with oxygen only or with nitrogen hetero-atom[s] only)	0.2%
Lifting, handling, loading or unloading machinery,...Lifting, handling, loading or unloading machinery, e.g. lifts, escalators, conveyors, teleferics (excl. pulley tackle and hoists, winches and capstans, jacks, cranes of all kinds, mobile lifting frames and straddle carriers, works trucks fitted with a crane, fork-lift trucks and other works trucks fitted with lifting or handling equipment)	0.2%
Ginger, saffron, turmeric "curcuma", thyme, bay...Ginger, saffron, turmeric "curcuma", thyme, bay leaves, curry and other spices (excl. pepper of the genus piper, fruit of the genus capsicum or of the genus pimenta, vanilla, cinnamon, cinnamontree flowers, cloves [wholefruit], clove stems, nutmeg, mace, cardamoms, seeds of anise, badian, fennel, coriander, cumin and caraway, and juniper berries)	0.2%
Electric accumulators, incl. separators therefor,...Electric accumulators, incl. separators therefor, whether or not square or rectangular; parts thereof (excl. spent and those of unhardened rubber or textiles)	0.2%
Inorganic or mineral colouring matter, n.e.s.;...Inorganic or mineral colouring matter, n.e.s.; preparations based on inorganic or mineral colouring matter of a kind used for colouring any material or produce colorant preparations (excl. preparations of heading 3207, 3208, 3209, 3210, 3213 and 3215); inorganic products of a kind used as luminophores, whether or not chemically defined	0.2%
Natural calcium phosphates and natural aluminium...Natural calcium phosphates and natural aluminium calcium phosphates, natural and phosphatic chalk	0.2%
Refrigerators, freezers and other refrigerating or...Refrigerators, freezers and other refrigerating or freezing equipment, electric or other; heat pumps; parts thereof (excl. air conditioning machines of heading 8415)	0.2%
Wood sawn or chipped lengthwise, sliced or peeled,...Wood sawn or chipped lengthwise, sliced or peeled, whether or not planed, sanded or end-jointed, of a thickness of > 6 mm	0.1%
Acrylic polymers, in primary formsAcrylic polymers, in primary forms	0.1%
Nitrile-function compoundsNitrile-function compounds	0.1%
Machinery (excl. of heading 8450) for washing,...Machinery (excl. of heading 8450) for washing, cleaning, wringing, drying, ironing, pressing incl. fusing presses, bleaching, dyeing, dressing, finishing, coating or impregnating textile yarns, fabrics or made-up textile articles and for applying paste to the base fabric or other support used in the manufacture of floor coverings like linoleum; machines for reeling, unreeling, folding, cutting or pinking textile fabrics; parts thereof	0.1%
Natural rubber, balata, gutta-percha, guayule,...Natural rubber, balata, gutta-percha, guayule, chicle and similar natural gums, in primary forms or in plates, sheets or strip	0.1%
Cotton yarn other than sewing thread, containing >...Cotton yarn other than sewing thread, containing >= 85% cotton by weight (excl. that put up for retail sale)	0.1%
Ball or roller bearings (excl. steel balls of...Ball or roller bearings (excl. steel balls of heading 7326); parts thereof	0.1%
Tractors (other than tractors of heading 8709)Tractors (other than tractors of heading 8709)	0.1%
Mineral or chemical potassic fertilisers (excl....Mineral or chemical potassic fertilisers (excl. those in tablets or similar forms, or in packages with a gross weight of <= 10 kg)	0.1%
Transmission shafts, incl. camshafts and...Transmission shafts, incl. camshafts and crankshafts, and cranks; bearing housings and plain shaft bearings for machines; gears and gearing; ball or roller screws, gear boxes and other speed changers, incl. torque converters; flywheels and pulleys, incl. pulley blocks, clutches and shaft couplings, incl. universal joints; parts thereof	0.1%
Boards, panels, consoles, desks, cabinets and...Boards, panels, consoles, desks, cabinets and other bases, equipped with two or more apparatus of heading 8535 or 8536, for electric control or the distribution of electricity, incl. those incorporating instruments or apparatus of chapter 90, and numerical control apparatus (excl. switching apparatus for line telephony or line telegraphy)	0.1%
Hydraulic turbines, water wheels, and regulators...Hydraulic turbines, water wheels, and regulators therefor (excl. hydraulic power engines and motors of heading 8412)	0.1%
Auxiliary machinery for use with machines of...Auxiliary machinery for use with machines of heading 8444, 8445, 8446 or 8447, e.g. dobbies, jacquards, automatic stop motions, shuttle changing mechanisms; parts and accessories suitable for use solely or principally with the machines of this heading or of heading 8444, 8445, 8446 or 8447, e.g. spindles and spindle flyers, card clothing, combs, extruding nipples, shuttles, healds and heald-frames, hosiery needles	0.1%
Parts suitable for use solely or principally with...Parts suitable for use solely or principally with transmission and reception apparatus for radio-telephony, radio-telegraphy, radio-broadcasting, television, television cameras, still image video cameras and other video camera recorders, radar apparatus, radio navigational aid apparatus or radio remote control apparatus, n.e.s.	0.1%
Plates, sheets, film, foil and strip, of...Plates, sheets, film, foil and strip, of non-cellular plastics, not reinforced, laminated, supported or similarly combined with other materials, without backing, unworked or merely surface-worked or merely cut into squares or rectangles (excl. self-adhesive products, and floor, wall and ceiling coverings of heading 3918)	0.1%
Dishwashing machines; machinery for cleaning or...Dishwashing machines; machinery for cleaning or drying bottles or other containers; machinery for filling, closing, sealing or labelling bottles, cans, boxes, bags or other containers; machinery for capsuling bottles, jars, tubes and similar containers; other packing or wrapping machinery, incl. heat-shrink wrapping machinery; machinery for aerating beverages; parts thereof	0.1%
Electrical apparatus for switching or protecting...Electrical apparatus for switching or protecting electrical circuits, or for making connections to or in electrical circuits, e.g., switches, relays, fuses, surge suppressors, plugs, sockets, lamp holders and junction boxes, for a voltage <= 1.000 v (excl. control desks, cabinets, panels etc. of heading 8537)	0.1%
Printing machinery used for printing by means of...Printing machinery used for printing by means of plates, cylinders and other printing components of heading 8442 (excl. hectograph or stencil duplicating machines, addressing machines and other office printing machines of heading 8469 to 8472); other printers, copying machines and facsimile machines, whether or not combined; parts thereof	0.1%
Soya-bean oil and its fractions, whether or not...Soya-bean oil and its fractions, whether or not refined (excl. chemically modified)	0.1%
Copper, refined, and copper alloys, unwrought ...Copper, refined, and copper alloys, unwrought (excl. copper alloys of heading 7405)	0.1%
Onions, shallots, garlic, leeks and other...Onions, shallots, garlic, leeks and other alliaceous vegetables, fresh or chilled	0.1%
Paper, paperboard, cellulose wadding and webs of...Paper, paperboard, cellulose wadding and webs of cellulose fibres, coated, impregnated, covered, surface-coloured, surface-decorated or printed, in rolls or in square or rectangular sheets, of any size (excl. goods of heading 4803, 4809 and 4810)	0.1%
Preparations of a kind used in animal feedingPreparations of a kind used in animal feeding	0.1%
Amine-function compoundsAmine-function compounds	0.1%
Motorcycles, incl. mopeds, and cycles fitted with...Motorcycles, incl. mopeds, and cycles fitted with an auxiliary motor, with or without side-cars; side-cars	0.1%
Polymers of styrene, in primary formsPolymers of styrene, in primary forms	0.1%
Knitting machines, stitch-bonding machines and...Knitting machines, stitch-bonding machines and machines for making gimped yarn, tulle, lace, embroidery, trimmings, braid or net and machines for tufting (excl. hem-stitching machines)	0.1%
Instruments and apparatus for physical or chemical...Instruments and apparatus for physical or chemical analysis, e.g. polarimeters, refractometers, spectrometers, gas or smoke analysis apparatus; instruments and apparatus for measuring or checking viscosity, porosity, expansion, surface tension or the like; instruments and apparatus for measuring or checking quantities of heat, sound or light, incl. exposure meters; microtomes	0.1%
Aluminium foil, "whether or not printed or backed...Aluminium foil, "whether or not printed or backed with paper, paperboard, plastics or similar backing materials", of a thickness "excl. any backing" of <= 0,2 mm (excl. stamping foils of heading 3212, christmas tree decorating material)	0.1%
Compounds with other nitrogen function (excl....Compounds with other nitrogen function (excl. amine-function compounds; oxygen-function amino-compounds; quaternary ammonium salts and hydroxides; lecithin and other phosphoaminolipids; carboxyamide-function compounds; amide-function compounds of carbonic acid; carboxyimide-function, imine-function or nitrile-function compounds; diazo-, azo- or azoxy-compounds; organic derivatives of hydrazine or of hydroxylamine)	0.1%
Seeds, fruits and spores, for sowing (excl....Seeds, fruits and spores, for sowing (excl. leguminous vegetables and sweetcorn, coffee, tea, maté and spices, cereals, oil seeds and oleaginous fruits, and seeds and fruit used primarily in perfumery, medicaments or for insecticidal, fungicidal or similar purposes)	0.1%
Parts suitable for use solely or principally with...Parts suitable for use solely or principally with the machinery of heading 8425 to 8430, n.e.s.	0.1%
Acyclic hydrocarbonsAcyclic hydrocarbons	0.1%
Bars and rods of alloy steel other than stainless,...Bars and rods of alloy steel other than stainless, hot-rolled, in irregularly wound coils	0.1%
Self-propelled bulldozers, angledozers, graders,...Self-propelled bulldozers, angledozers, graders, levellers, scrapers, mechanical shovels, excavators, shovel loaders, tamping machines and roadrollers	0.1%
Self-adhesive plates, sheets, film, foil, tape,...Self-adhesive plates, sheets, film, foil, tape, strip and other flat shapes, of plastics, whether or not in rolls (excl. floor, wall and ceiling coverings of heading 3918)	0.1%
Nonwovens, whether or not impregnated, coated,...Nonwovens, whether or not impregnated, coated, covered or laminated, n.e.s.	0.1%
Food preparations, n.e.s.Food preparations, n.e.s.	0.1%
Uncoated paper and paperboard, of a kind used for...Uncoated paper and paperboard, of a kind used for writing, printing or other graphic purposes, and non-perforated punchcards and punch-tape paper, in rolls or in square or rectangular sheets, of any size, and handmade paper and paperboard (excl. newsprint of heading 4801 and paper of heading 4803)	0.1%
Articles of plastics and articles of other...Articles of plastics and articles of other materials of heading 3901 to 3914, n.e.s.	0.1%
Ferro-alloysFerro-alloys	0.1%
See More Products	67.9%

Source: Comtrade, Latest Available Data

To go further, check out our service Import Export Flows.

Main Services

5.8 bn USD of services exported in 2019
Other business servicesOther business services	25.43%
Computer and information servicesComputer and information services	22.38%
Government servicesGovernment services	21.03%
TransportationTransportation	14.80%
TravelTravel +	8.56%
Personal travelPersonal travel	8.52%
Business travelBusiness travel	0.03%
Construction servicesConstruction services	4.99%
Financial servicesFinancial services	1.89%
Insurance servicesInsurance services	0.73%
Cultural and recreational servicesCultural and recreational services	0.19%

9.8 bn USD of services imported in 2019
TransportationTransportation	36.25%
Other business servicesOther business services	25.95%
TravelTravel +	16.91%
Personal travelPersonal travel	16.60%
Business travelBusiness travel	0.31%
Construction servicesConstruction services	5.12%
Computer and information servicesComputer and information services	4.35%
Government servicesGovernment services	4.04%
Financial servicesFinancial services	2.90%
Insurance servicesInsurance services	2.51%
Royalties and license feesRoyalties and license fees	1.96%
Cultural and recreational servicesCultural and recreational services	0.01%

Source: United Nations Statistics Division, Latest Available Data

Sources of General Economic Information

Ministries: Government ministries and departments
Ministry of Commerce
Ministry of Finance
Ministry of Economic Affairs & Statistics
Statistical Office: Bureau of Statistics
Central Bank: State Bank of Pakistan
Stock Exchange: Pakistan Stock Exchange
Search Engines: Google Pakistan
Pakistan Services Limited
Pakistan Webs Directory
Pakistanism.com
Economic Portals: Pakistan Institute of Development Economics

Political Outline

Current Political Leaders: President: Arif ALVI (since 9 September 2018)
Prime Minister: Imran KHAN (since 18 August 2018)
Next Election Dates: Presidential: 2023
Senate: March 2024
National Assembly: July 2023
Main Political Parties: Pakistan has a multi-party system in which no party has a chance of gaining power alone, and parties work with each other to form coalition governments to direct the National Assembly. Political alliances in Pakistan shift very frequently. Some of the major political parties in the country are:
- Pakistan Peoples Party Parliamentarians (PPPP): a mainstream political party derived out of Pakistan People's Party
- Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI): centre-left
- Muttahida Qaumi Movement (MQM): self-proclaimed liberal
- Muttahida Majlis-e-Amal (MMA): far-right
- Jamiat Ulama-e-Islam (JUI-F): far right
- Jamaat-e Islami Pakistan(JI): far right
- Awami National Party (ANP): Democratic socialism
- Pak Sarzameen Party (PSP)
- Awami Workers Party (AWP): Left Wing
- Tehreek-e-Labbaik Pakistan (TLP): far right
Type of State: Pakistan is a multiparty federal republic.
Executive Power: The President is the chief of state and is elected by an Electoral College composed of the members of the Senate, the National Assembly and the provincial assemblies, for a five-year term. The President is the commander-in-chief of the armed forces. The President is supposed to have a largely ceremonial role; however, Presidents with an army background have played an influential role in mainstream politics throughout Pakistan's history. The Prime Minister is elected by the lower house of the parliament through a vote for a five-year term. The Prime Minister is the head of the government and enjoys the executive powers which include implementation of the law and running the day-to-day affairs of the country. The council of ministers (cabinet) is appointed by the President on the advice of the Prime Minister.
Legislative Power: The legislature in Pakistan is bicameral. The parliament consists of: The Senate (the upper house) having 100 seats, with its members indirectly elected by provincial assemblies to serve six-year terms; and the National Assembly (the lower house) having 342 seats, with its members elected by popular vote to serve five-year terms. The President can be impeached and removed from his office by a two-thirds majority vote of the National Assembly, but the Constitution of the country also grants the President the unique power to dissolve the National Assembly and also to dismiss the Prime Minister. The Prime Minister cannot dissolve the parliament.

Indicator of Freedom of the Press

Definition

Definition:

The world rankings, published annually, measures violations of press freedom worldwide. It reflects the degree of freedom enjoyed by journalists, the media and digital citizens of each country and the means used by states to respect and uphold this freedom. Finally, a note and a position are assigned to each country. To compile this index, Reporters Without Borders (RWB) prepared a questionnaire incorporating the main criteria (44 in total) to assess the situation of press freedom in a given country. This questionnaire was sent to partner organisations,150 RWB correspondents, journalists, researchers, jurists and human rights activists. It includes every kind of direct attacks against journalists and digital citizens (murders, imprisonment, assault, threats, etc.) or against the media (censorship, confiscation, searches and harassment etc.).

World Rank:: 145/180
Evolution:: 145/180

Indicator of Political Freedom

Definition

Definition:

The Indicator of Political Freedom provides an annual evaluation of the state of freedom in a country as experienced by individuals. The survey measures freedom according to two broad categories: political rights and civil liberties. The ratings process is based on a checklist of 10 political rights questions (on Electoral Process, Political Pluralism and Participation, Functioning of Government) and 15 civil liberties questions (on Freedom of Expression, Belief, Associational and Organizational Rights, Rule of Law, Personal Autonomy and Individual Rights). Scores are awarded to each of these questions on a scale of 0 to 4, where a score of 0 represents the smallest degree and 4 the greatest degree of rights or liberties present. The total score awarded to the political rights and civil liberties checklist determines the political rights and civil liberties rating. Each rating of 1 through 7, with 1 representing the highest and 7 the lowest level of freedom, corresponds to a range of total scores.

Ranking:: Partly Free
Political Freedom:: 5/7
Civil Liberties:: 22/60

Political freedom in the world (interactive map)
Source: Freedom in the World Report, Freedom House

COVID-19 Country Response

COVID-19 epidemic evolution: To find out about the latest status of the COVID19 pandemic evolution and the most up-to-date statistics on the COVID-19 disease in Pakistan, please visit the Pakistan government’s Know About COVID-19 website with the official data.

For the international outlook you can consult the latest situation reports published by the World Health Organisation as well as the global daily statistics on the coronavirus pandemic evolution including data on confirmed cases and deaths by country.
Sanitary measures: To find out about the latest public health situation in Pakistan and the current sanitary measures in vigour, please consult the COVID-19 page.
Travel restrictions: The COVID-19 situation, including the spread of new variants, evolves rapidly and differs from country to country. All travelers need to pay close attention to the conditions at their destination before traveling. Regularly updated information for all countries with regards to Covid-19 related travel restrictions in place including entry regulations, flight bans, test requirements and quarantine is available on TravelDoc Infopage.
It is also highly recommended to consult COVID-19 Travel Regulations Map provided and updated on the daily basis by IATA.
The US government website of Centers of Disease Control and Prevention provides COVID-19 Travel Recommendations by Destination.
The UK Foreign travel advice also provides travelling abroad advice for all countries, including the latest information on coronavirus, safety and security, entry requirements and travel warnings.
Import & export restrictions: For information on all the measures applicable to movement of goods during the period of sanitary emergency due to the COVID-19 outbreak (including eventual restrictions on imports and exports, if applicable), refer to the Federal Board of Revenue’s reports on imports and exports. Actions include: exemption of customs duties on 61 medical goods, lifting the ban on the export of textile masks and sanitizers and a temporary export ban on certain personal protective equipment.

For a general overview of trade restrictions due to COVID-19 pandemic, please consult the section dedicated to Pakistan on the International Trade Centre's COVID-19 Temporary Trade Measures webpage.
Economic recovery plan: For information on the economic recovery scheme put in place by the Pakistani government to address the impact of the COVID19 pandemic on the Pakistani economy, refer to KPMG Pakistan’s Government and institution measures in response to COVID-19 webpages.

For the general overview of the key economic policy responses to the COVID-19 outbreak (fiscal, monetary and macroeconomic) taken by the Pakistani government to limit the socio-economic impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, please consult the section dedicated to Pakistan in the IMF’s Policy Tracker platform.
Support plan for businesses: For information on the local business support scheme established by the Pakistani government to help small and medium-sized companies to deal with the economic impacts of the COVID19 epidemic on their activity, refer to ResearchGate’s report COVID-19 (Coronavirus) on Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) in Pakistan.

For a general overview of international SME support policy responses to the COVID-19 outbreak refer to the World Bank's Map of SME-Support Measures in Response to COVID-19.
Support plan for exporters: There are no specific support plans for exporters in Pakistan so far. For future possible up-to-date information please visit the website of the Pakistani Ministry of Commerce.

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