pbs revises import
|

PBS revises import data after billions of dollars in discrepancies

ByJustpaste.in

The Pakistan Bureau of Statistics (PBS) has revised the country’s monthly and annual import figures after uncovering major discrepancies in trade data, with the adjustments reaching billions of dollars over certain periods.

The data revisions, which could amount to as much as $30 billion for some periods, are expected to have a notable impact on Pakistan’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP) calculations and other key economic indicators. The statistical agency has incorporated the updated import figures across several major sectors as part of the data reconciliation process.

According to senior government officials, the PBS has completed a detailed report outlining the discrepancies and the methodology used to revise the import statistics. The report has been submitted to the Ministry of Finance, which is currently examining its potential implications. The ministry is expected to make the findings public by the end of August 2026.

Differences emerge between PBS and SBP data

The issue came to light after officials identified significant differences between import figures compiled by the PBS and corresponding data maintained by the State Bank of Pakistan (SBP).

The discrepancies were initially detected while comparing Pakistan’s trade figures with China. Further scrutiny subsequently revealed differences in specific tariff lines and categories of imports that had not been fully reflected in the PBS data.

Following the discovery, the Pakistan Single Window and other relevant government institutions became involved in the reconciliation process. The objective was to identify the source of the differences, verify transaction-level information and ensure that import statistics accurately reflected the country’s external trade.

The matter later attracted the attention of the International Monetary Fund (IMF), which has been closely monitoring Pakistan’s economic data and statistical reporting under its reform programme.

IMF seeks greater transparency

The IMF had previously highlighted weaknesses in Pakistan’s procedures for collecting, compiling and consolidating import data. It called for improvements in the statistical framework and greater transparency about the scale and economic impact of the discrepancies.

Under the agreed reform requirements, the PBS was tasked with publishing revised monthly and annual import statistics by the end of August 2026. The statistical agency is also expected to provide an explanation of the changes and their impact on previously reported figures.

The revisions are particularly significant because imports are an important component of national accounts and external-sector statistics. Changes in import values can influence the calculation of GDP, trade balances, current account figures and other macroeconomic indicators.

GDP impact under review

The Ministry of Finance is examining the PBS report largely because of the potential impact of the revised import figures on national economic data. Officials are assessing how the changes could affect previously reported GDP estimates and other indicators based on import statistics.

The scale of the revisions means that the exercise could result in adjustments to historical economic data, depending on how the revised figures are incorporated into the national accounts.

Officials, however, are expected to provide further details once the Ministry of Finance completes its review and the PBS publishes the revised statistics.

IMF review mission approaching

The development comes ahead of the IMF’s next review of Pakistan’s economic reform programme. The Fund’s review mission under the country’s $7 billion Extended Fund Facility (EFF) is expected to visit Pakistan by early September 2026.

The publication of revised import data before the mission’s arrival is likely to be closely watched, as strengthening the reliability and transparency of economic statistics remains an important element of Pakistan’s commitments under the IMF programme.

Similar Posts

  • | |

    Tank assault ends in militants’ deadly defeat

    ByJustpaste.in

    Security forces have foiled an attack on a joint check post in Tank district. All the militants involved in the attack were killed during the security operation. The attack took place at a joint check post of the Pakistan Army and police in the Manjhi Khel area of Tank. According to reports, militants belonging to Fitna al-Khawarij attempted to target the security post. Security forces responded immediately after the attack began. They effectively engaged the attackers and prevented them from achieving their objective. The timely response brought the attack to an end. All the militants involved in the assault were killed, according to the report. The bodies of the slain attackers were later brought to a local market in Tank. Their presence triggered a strong reaction from local residents. People expressed anger and disgust towards the militants. Residents strongly condemned those involved in violence and terrorism. The Tank district has faced the impact of prolonged unrest and violence. The latest incident has once again highlighted the security challenges faced by communities in the region. Local residents have increasingly expressed their opposition to militant groups and activities that threaten peace. Their reaction reflects growing public frustration with violence and instability. The strong response from the local population also sends a message against elements attempting to disturb peace in the area. Residents have rejected violence and terrorism and expressed support for efforts aimed at restoring lasting peace.

  • | |

    Shah Rukh, Karan tease Friendship Day surprise

    ByJustpaste.in

    Shah Rukh Khan and filmmaker Karan Johar have sparked excitement among fans after hinting at a new collaboration on International Friendship Day. The longtime friends shared a playful teaser on social media, leaving followers guessing about the project they have been quietly working on together. On August 2, Karan Johar took to Instagram to celebrate Friendship Day by posting a video featuring Shah Rukh Khan. In the clip, the Bollywood superstar is seen singing the classic Hindi song “Mil Gaya Hum Ko Saathi,” adding a nostalgic touch to the occasion. Alongside the footage, Johar shared a cryptic message teasing an upcoming announcement. The filmmaker wrote over the video: “Our best friend has a new best friend … nice friendship day gift bhai (brother). Who is it?!” The post immediately sparked speculation among fans, many of whom assumed the duo was preparing to announce a new film together. Others wondered whether the teaser was related to an advertisement, a digital campaign or another creative collaboration. The comments section quickly filled with excitement and requests for another Shah Rukh-Karan film. One fan wrote: “Can Karan make a film with Shah Rukh Khan and Kajol? We fans have been waiting for eleven years.” Another commented: “Best gift on Friendship Day.” A third fan added: “Just like the Guru Purnima post, I thought this was your next movie announcement, but anything you guys do is special. Waiting to see what this is about!!!” The latest teaser comes only weeks after Johar shared a heartfelt tribute to Shah Rukh Khan on Guru Purnima, describing the actor as his mentor and recalling how their friendship shaped his filmmaking journey. In that emotional post, Johar remembered one of his earliest conversations with Shah Rukh during a trip to Switzerland. He wrote: “Switzerland … I was looking at the mountains (pretending to be homesick and seeking sympathy). He came to me and said Tu director banega aur teri pehli film main karoonga.’ (You will become a director and I will do your first film). I thought to myself… he’s probably low on oxygen and may not completely know what he’s saying.” Johar went on to thank Shah Rukh for always believing in him as a filmmaker, referring to the superstar as his “guru.” Their friendship has produced several successful films over the years, making them one of Bollywood’s most celebrated actor-director partnerships. Professionally, both stars have busy schedules ahead. Karan Johar is preparing to return as host of the second season of The Traitors, which is scheduled to premiere on Prime Video on August 13. Meanwhile, Shah Rukh Khan is gearing up for one of the biggest projects of his career, King, in which he will share the screen with his daughter Suhana Khan for the first time. The highly anticipated film is currently slated for release on December 24, 2026. Although neither Shah Rukh Khan nor Karan Johar has revealed what their Friendship Day teaser is actually about, the cryptic post has already generated widespread excitement, with fans eagerly awaiting an official announcement from the iconic duo. 

  • | | |

    DPM Dar boosts Pakistan-ADB partnership

    ByJustpaste.in

    Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar visited the headquarters of the Asian Development Bank (ADB) in Manila on Wednesday to review the bank’s partnership with Pakistan and discuss ways to strengthen future cooperation. The visit took place on the sidelines of the 33rd ASEAN Regional Forum Ministerial Meeting, where Pakistan is participating in a series of high-level diplomatic engagements with regional and international partners. Upon his arrival at the ADB headquarters, Dar was welcomed by senior officials of the bank. He signed the visitors’ book before holding discussions on the institution’s evolving development agenda and its ongoing collaboration with Pakistan. The meeting focused on expanding cooperation in several important sectors, including infrastructure, energy, climate resilience, education, economic reforms and sustainable development. Both sides also discussed future opportunities to support Pakistan’s economic growth and development priorities. Dar later attended a working luncheon hosted by Pakistan’s Executive Director to the ADB, Nashita Mohsin. The event was attended by Pakistani professionals serving in senior leadership positions across different departments of the bank. During the interaction, Dar appreciated the contributions of Pakistani professionals working at the ADB. He said their expertise and leadership have strengthened the institution’s work while enhancing Pakistan’s image at the international level. He also congratulated Nashita Mohsin on assuming her responsibilities as Pakistan’s Executive Director to the Asian Development Bank and expressed confidence that she would further strengthen Pakistan’s engagement with the institution. On the sidelines of the ASEAN forum, Dar also met Bangladesh’s Foreign Minister Khalilur Rehman. The two leaders reviewed the positive momentum in bilateral relations and discussed ways to expand cooperation between the two countries. Both sides welcomed the steady improvement in diplomatic ties and appreciated the growing engagement in trade, communication and people-to-people contacts. They noted that the launch of direct flights earlier this year has further improved connectivity and created new opportunities for cooperation. The two ministers reaffirmed their commitment to maintaining the positive momentum in bilateral relations and agreed to continue close engagement in areas of mutual interest. Dar and Rehman also exchanged views on regional and international developments, including issues affecting South Asia and broader global challenges. They emphasized the importance of dialogue and cooperation in promoting regional peace, stability and economic development. Earlier, Dar arrived in Manila with a Pakistani delegation to participate in the 33rd ASEAN Regional Forum Ministerial Meeting. During the visit, he is expected to attend the forum’s plenary session and hold several bilateral meetings with foreign ministers from participating countries. The ASEAN Regional Forum brings together foreign ministers and senior diplomats from ASEAN member states and major global powers to discuss regional security, economic cooperation, energy security, food security, geopolitical developments and other international issues. Representatives from the United States, China, Japan, India, Australia, South Korea, Russia, the United Kingdom and the European Union are also participating in the meeting.

  • |

    Sanya Malhotra says desi ‘acts of service’ hurt women

    ByJustpaste.in

    Sanya Malhotra has spoken about breaking old patterns in her own family. She admitted she “forced” her mother to step back from the kitchen and focus on herself instead. According to her, the habit of women expressing love through nonstop service is not healthy. In many South Asian homes, she said, women spend their days caring for others while their own goals get set aside. She brought this up in a recent interview. Her own house followed the same pattern growing up. Women stayed in the kitchen. Men waited around for things to be handed to them. She said she didn’t fully see how much pressure her mother was under until she moved away to Mumbai. One memory stood out for her. Her mother once cried simply because she felt too sick to cook. Sanya told her that food had nothing to do with love. She explained that cooking is just one way people show care, not the only way it can be shown. That moment shifted things at home. Sanya started nudging her parents away from old habits. Her mother now listens when Sanya tells her to skip the kitchen for a day. She said it makes her proud watching her mother take time for herself in the mornings instead of rushing straight to chores. Her father was not left out either. Sanya said she often pushed him to do small things, like getting his own glass of water or making a simple meal. She admitted the change has not fully stuck yet, but she keeps reminding him. She connected all of this to her character in Mrs. In the film, she plays a newlywed whose entire identity gets swallowed by household duties. Sanya said many women tell her the story feels personal to them. That response, she said, leaves her both upset and hopeful, since even a small shift in mindset feels worth it to her. She also called out how sacrifice tends to get romanticised, especially when it comes to mothers. Women, she said, are often expected to give up their own dreams the moment they become parents. Talking about her mother’s past, Sanya revealed she once wanted to become a fashion designer. It took her years to understand her mother had dreams of her own beyond raising a family. As for the criticism Mrs received, Sanya said none of it bothered her. She said she has no interest in defending her views to people who never even watched the film. She last appeared in Netflix’s Toaster and is currently working on Bandar and Sundar Poonam.

  • | |

    Gracie Abrams shuts down Taylor Swift feud rumours

    ByJustpaste.in

    Gracie Abrams has addressed speculation about an alleged rift with Taylor Swift, making it clear that there is no bad blood between the two singers. The 26-year-old singer spoke about Swift during a recent appearance on comedian Jake Shane’s podcast. Abrams was promoting her new album Daughter From Hell when the conversation turned to rumours surrounding her relationship with the global pop star. Rather than confirming reports of a disagreement, Abrams praised Swift and spoke warmly about the experience of working alongside her during the Eras Tour. Abrams described watching Swift manage the massive tour as a remarkable professional experience. She praised the singer’s ability to create a memorable experience for audiences, performers and everyone involved in the production. The singer also highlighted Swift’s professionalism and dedication. According to Abrams, the tour taught her that a major performance continues regardless of personal circumstances. Abrams said Swift’s commitment to her work was particularly impressive because audiences would not necessarily know if she was unwell or dealing with personal difficulties. She praised Swift for continuing to perform with warmth, grace and determination. She went on to describe Swift as an exceptionally talented and unique artist while also emphasising her human side. Abrams’ comments come after social media users began speculating about a possible disagreement between the two singers. The rumours gained momentum after Abrams shared photographs connected to a high-profile wedding celebration in July. Fans noticed that the photographs also featured Joe Alwyn, Swift’s former boyfriend. This led some social media users to speculate that Abrams may have been caught up in an alleged disagreement involving Swift and Alwyn. The speculation intensified further after fans linked Abrams’ recently released song Death Wish to the alleged fallout. However, there has been no confirmation that the song was written about Swift or any personal dispute between the singers. Abrams and Swift have previously shared a professional connection through the Eras Tour, where Abrams gained additional exposure while performing as an opening act. The latest comments from Abrams appear to put the online speculation into perspective. Instead of criticising Swift, she used the opportunity to praise her work ethic, professionalism and approach to performing. The singer’s remarks also suggest that much of the alleged feud may have been driven by fan speculation rather than any confirmed disagreement between the two artists.

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *