Pakistan has received $4.9 billion in foreign loans and aid during the first eight months of the current fiscal year (July to February), with France emerging as the top contributor by providing $100 million, followed by China with $99 million and the United States with $40 million.

According to officials from the Economic Affairs Division, Pakistan had set a target of securing $19.2 billion from external sources for the full fiscal year (July to June). However, by the end of February, the country had managed to secure only $4.9 billion in financial assistance. Out of this, $2.4 billion came from international aid organisations, while $330 million were obtained as loans from foreign governments.

France contributed the highest amount among donor countries, providing $100 million, while China and the US extended financial support of $99 million and $40 million, respectively. Additionally, Saudi Arabia provided $12.3 million in financial assistance. Meanwhile, commercial banks granted $500 million in loans to Pakistan during this period.

Pakistan also received $1.3 billion through the Naya Pakistan Certificates scheme. In terms of institutional lending, the Asian Development Bank (ADB) disbursed $1.09 billion, while the World Bank extended a loan of $890 million. Moreover, Chinese banks provided $300 million in loans between July and February.

With just a few months left in the fiscal year, Pakistan faces an uphill battle to bridge the gap between its external financing target and actual inflows.

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