Islamabad, Dec 20: The repatriation of profits and dividends by foreign investors rose sharply by 112% to $1.129 billion in the first five months of FY25, compared to $523 million during the same period in FY24, marking a $597 million increase, according to the State Bank of Pakistan (SBP).
Of these outflows, $1.074 billion was attributed to returns on Foreign Direct Investment (FDI), reflecting a 118% rise from $492 million in the corresponding period of FY24. Additionally, $54 million was repatriated as returns on Foreign Portfolio Investment (FPI), up from $41 million last year.
In November 2024 alone, $322 million was repatriated, including $302 million from FDI returns and $20 million from FPI.
Sector-specific data shows the food industry leading repatriation figures, with $247 million sent abroad in profits and dividends, a significant increase from $68.6 million in the previous year. The financial sector followed with $160 million, while the power sector accounted for $157 million.
Analysts highlighted that this substantial rise indicates improved profitability of foreign investments in Pakistan, driven by stronger financial performance in key industries.
