ISLAMABAD: Pakistan’s exports to Gulf countries recorded a significant decline in March and April 2026 as the ongoing Iran-US conflict disrupted regional trade routes, increased shipping costs and affected logistics operations across the Middle East.
According to official documents obtained by Dunya News, Pakistan’s exports to Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries fell sharply during the two-month period, highlighting the impact of regional instability on the country’s external trade sector.
The data shows that exports to GCC member states dropped by nearly 70 percent in March 2026, falling from more than $315.1 million in March 2025 to $95.4 million during the same month this year.
Although the decline eased in April, exports remained under pressure. Pakistan exported goods worth $152.4 million to GCC countries in April 2026, compared with $200 million in April 2025, representing a decrease of more than 23 percent.
The GCC includes the United Arab Emirates, Saudi Arabia, Bahrain, Oman, Kuwait and Qatar.
UAE records steepest decline
Among GCC member states, the United Arab Emirates recorded the sharpest fall in Pakistani exports during March, with shipments declining by 74 percent.
Exports to Saudi Arabia fell by 56 percent, Qatar by 64 percent and Oman by 85 percent. Exports to Bahrain also declined by 85 percent, while shipments to Kuwait decreased by 21 percent.
Trade routes and logistics affected
According to the Ministry of Commerce, the conflict has disrupted both sea and air transportation routes and increased shipping and logistics costs for exporters.
Officials said the UAE has been particularly affected because of disruptions in its logistics network. Pakistan relies heavily on Jebel Ali Port as a regional trade hub, with around 80 percent of its trade with GCC countries moving through the facility.
Trade experts say continued instability could further increase shipping insurance costs, delay cargo movement and add to the financial burden on exporters already facing higher production and transportation expenses.
Broader economic implications
The Middle East remains one of Pakistan’s key export destinations and an important source of economic activity linked to overseas workers and regional trade.
Analysts warn that prolonged tensions in the region could place additional pressure on Pakistan’s export earnings and overall trade performance if disruptions to transportation and logistics networks continue.
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