State Bank of Pakistan (SBP) Governor Jameel Ahmad has said Pakistan’s current account deficit is expected to remain between 0% and 1% of gross domestic product (GDP), as the country’s economic fundamentals and external stability continue to improve.
Addressing the annual convocation of the Institute of Cost and Management Accountants of Pakistan (ICMA Pakistan), Ahmad said the economy had made significant progress since 2022 despite major global and regional challenges. Real GDP growth recovered from a contraction in fiscal year 2023 to 3.7% in FY26, with further improvement expected in the current fiscal year.
The governor said inflation remained close to the central bank’s target range during FY26. Although price pressures have increased since then, inflation is expected to gradually ease, supported by prudent monetary policy. He added that timely policy decisions, fiscal discipline and evidence-based measures had helped restore macroeconomic stability and reduce inflation from above 30% to within the medium-term target range.
Ahmad also highlighted improvements in financial sector performance, risk-based supervision and economic resilience, noting that Pakistan’s progress was being recognized by international credit rating agencies, multilateral partners and foreign investors. He urged graduating accountants and finance professionals to prioritize evidence-based decisions, professional ethics and sustainable economic development.
