Pakistan’s Foreign Reserves Boosted as Gold Value Climbs in FY26
Pakistan’s gold reserves have recorded a significant increase during the first seven months of Fiscal Year 2025-26 (FY26), reflecting improved reserve valuation and strengthening external stability.
According to data released by the State Bank of Pakistan (SBP), the total value of Pakistan’s gold reserves has reached $10.374 billion, marking a cumulative increase of $3.5 billion since the start of the fiscal year.
This development is widely searched online under keywords such as:
- Pakistan gold reserves 2026
- SBP gold reserves update
- Pakistan forex reserves latest news
- Gold holdings Pakistan SBP
- Pakistan reserves increase FY26
In this detailed article, we explain:
- How much gold Pakistan holds
- Why reserves increased
- January 2026 performance breakdown
- Comparison with June 2025
- Impact on economy and rupee
- What this means for investors
- Frequently Asked Questions
Pakistan’s Gold Reserves Reach $10.374 Billion
As per the SBP data, Pakistan’s gold reserves now stand at:
- Total Value: $10.374 billion
- Total Increase in FY26: $3.5 billion
- Increase in January 2026 Alone: $1.279 billion
This shows that a major portion of the increase came during January 2026.
How Much Gold Does Pakistan Hold?
Pakistan currently holds:
- 64.76 tons of gold
- Equivalent to 2.082 million ounces
- Or approximately 5.552 million tolas
Despite the quantity remaining stable, the total value has increased significantly due to rising global gold prices.
Comparison with June 2025
In June 2025:
- Gold reserves were valued at $6.84 billion
Now in February 2026:
- Gold reserves stand at $10.374 billion
This means:
- $3.534 billion growth in seven months
- Over 50% increase in reserve valuation
The rise is primarily driven by global gold price appreciation rather than new gold purchases.
Why Did Pakistan’s Gold Reserves Increase?
The increase is mainly due to the following factors:
1️⃣ Rising International Gold Prices
Gold prices have surged globally due to:
- Geopolitical tensions
- Inflation concerns
- Global economic uncertainty
- Central bank buying trends
When international gold prices rise, the valuation of Pakistan’s existing gold holdings automatically increases.

2️⃣ Strong Central Bank Reserve Management
The State Bank of Pakistan manages reserves carefully by:
- Diversifying assets
- Maintaining gold holdings
- Monitoring global market trends
Gold acts as a hedge against currency fluctuations and economic instability.
3️⃣ Weak Dollar in Certain Periods
Gold prices usually rise when the US dollar weakens. Any dollar fluctuations affect gold valuation in international markets.
How Gold Reserves Strengthen Pakistan’s Economy
Gold reserves are an important part of foreign exchange reserves. Their increase helps in:
✔ Improving External Stability
Higher reserve value strengthens Pakistan’s financial position.
✔ Supporting the Pakistani Rupee
Strong reserves build confidence in currency markets.
✔ Enhancing Investor Confidence
International investors look at reserve strength before investing.
✔ Reducing Default Risk Perception
Higher reserves reduce sovereign risk concerns.
Gold Reserves vs Foreign Exchange Reserves
It is important to understand the difference:
- Gold reserves = Physical gold holdings valued at market prices
- Foreign exchange reserves = Dollars, euros, SDRs, and other currencies
Gold is part of total foreign exchange reserves but acts as a safe asset during crises.
January 2026 – A Major Boost Month
- $1.279 billion increase in January 2026 alone
This suggests that international gold prices experienced a strong rally during that month, significantly increasing valuation.
This sharp monthly gain contributed heavily to the overall $3.5 billion growth.
Is Pakistan Buying More Gold?
Currently, there is no official confirmation that Pakistan purchased additional gold in large quantities.
The increase appears to be valuation-driven rather than volume-driven.
Pakistan’s gold quantity remains at:
- 64.76 tons
So, the growth is price-based rather than accumulation-based.
Global Gold Trends in 2026
Globally, central banks have been:
- Increasing gold holdings
- Reducing reliance on dollar reserves
- Diversifying reserve portfolios
Countries worldwide are turning to gold due to:
- Inflation fears
- Banking sector uncertainties
- Global debt risks
This trend supports higher gold prices, benefiting countries like Pakistan that already hold gold reserves.
What This Means for Pakistani Investors
If gold prices remain strong:
- Local gold rates in Pakistan may stay elevated
- Investors may consider gold as a hedge
- Jewellery prices may remain high
Search trends such as:
- Gold rate in Pakistan today
- Is gold price going up in 2026?
- Should I invest in gold Pakistan?
Are increasing due to global price momentum.
Impact on Pakistani Rupee
Higher gold reserve valuation:
- Improves overall reserve figures
- Strengthens external account position
- Supports currency stability
While it does not directly increase dollar liquidity, it improves reserve strength perception.
Economic Outlook After Reserve Increase
The rise in gold reserves sends positive signals:
🔹 Improved Balance Sheet
Higher reserve value strengthens Pakistan’s central bank balance sheet.
🔹 Credit Rating Impact
Strong reserves may positively influence rating agencies.
🔹 IMF Negotiation Strength
Stronger reserves provide better financial standing in international negotiations.
Risks & Challenges
Despite the positive increase, some risks remain:
- Gold prices are volatile
- If international prices fall, reserve value may drop
- Valuation gains are not cash liquidity
Therefore, stability depends on global market trends.
Pakistan’s Gold Reserves in Historical Context
Over the years, Pakistan’s gold holdings have remained relatively stable in quantity.
However, value fluctuates due to:
- International gold prices
- Exchange rate movements
- Global economic conditions
The current $10.374 billion valuation is one of the highest in recent years.
Conclusion – A Strong Boost to Pakistan’s Financial Position
Pakistan’s gold reserves rising by $3.5 billion in just seven months of FY26 marks a major financial development. With reserves now valued at $10.374 billion, the country’s external position looks stronger.
While this increase is largely driven by global gold price appreciation rather than new purchases, it still improves Pakistan’s financial stability and investor confidence.
If gold prices remain elevated, Pakistan’s reserve strength could continue to improve in 2026. However, sustainability depends on international market trends and broader economic reforms.








