Islamabad: Pakistan’s edible oil import pattern has shifted significantly during the first seven months of fiscal year 2025-26, with soybean oil imports declining sharply while palm oil imports recorded notable growth.
Thank you for reading this post, don't forget to subscribe!According to the latest data released by the Pakistan Bureau of Statistics (PBS), soybean oil imports fell by 42.27% during July–January FY 2025-26 compared to the same period last year.
Soybean Oil Imports Decline Significantly
During the first seven months of the current fiscal year, Pakistan imported 85,771 metric tons of soybean oil valued at $94.991 million to meet domestic consumption needs.
In comparison, during the same period of FY 2024-25, soybean oil imports stood at 94,991 metric tons, costing $164.550 million.
The sharp reduction in value indicates not only lower import volumes but also a substantial shift in the country’s edible oil procurement strategy.
Palm Oil Imports Rise to Meet Domestic Demand
In contrast, palm oil imports increased by 24.28% during July–January FY 2025-26.
Pakistan imported approximately 2.182 million metric tons of palm oil worth $2.350 billion, primarily for edible oil and vegetable ghee production.
During the corresponding period last year, palm oil imports were recorded at 1.887 million metric tons, valued at $1.885 billion.
The data reflects Pakistan’s continued reliance on palm oil as the primary source for meeting domestic edible oil requirements.
Food Exports Record 35.21% Decline
Meanwhile, overall food exports showed a significant downturn.
During July–January FY 2025-26, food exports totaled $2.988 billion, compared to $4.613 billion during the same period last year, marking a 35.21% decline.
Month-on-Month Export Performance
However, on a monthly basis, exports improved in January 2026:
- January 2026: $624.445 million
- December 2025: $405.983 million
This reflects a strong recovery trend on a month-on-month basis.
Food Imports Increase by 19.26%
Food group imports during the first seven months of FY 2025-26 rose by 19.26% compared to the same period last year.
Total food imports reached $5.502 billion, up from $4.613 billion in FY 2024-25.
Month-on-Month Import Comparison
- January 2026: $871.468 million
- December 2025: $783.438 million
The data highlights sustained pressure on Pakistan’s food import bill, despite fluctuations in export performance.
Market Outlook
The contrasting trends in soybean and palm oil imports suggest adjustments in procurement strategies driven by pricing, availability, and domestic consumption patterns. The widening gap between food imports and exports also signals ongoing trade balance challenges in the agri-food sector.