ISLAMABAD — China remained the largest source of foreign direct investment (FDI) in Pakistan in May 2026, with net investment amounting to $79.3 million, Gwadar Pro reported quoting the latest data released by the State Bank of Pakistan (SBP).
Chinese Investment Details
The SBP data showed that Chinese investors brought $90.4 million into Pakistan during the month, while $11.1 million was recorded as outflow, leaving a net FDI inflow of $79.3 million. China accounted for nearly 37% of Pakistan’s total net FDI inflows during the month.
Overall FDI Figures
Overall, Pakistan recorded gross FDI inflows of $295.1 million in May 2026, while $80.8 million flowed out in the form of profit repatriation and other capital withdrawals. As a result, the country posted a net FDI inflow of $214.3 million for the month.
Other Major Investors
Among other major investing countries, the United Arab Emirates recorded a net FDI inflow of $50.5 million, followed by Hong Kong with $27.1 million, Switzerland with $17.4 million, and the United Kingdom with $14.8 million.
FY2025-26 Performance
During the first eleven months of FY2025-26 (July–May), China also retained its position as Pakistan’s largest foreign investor, with net FDI of $819 million, based on inflows of $1.106 billion and outflows of $287 million.
The SBP figures indicate that Pakistan attracted $3.27 billion in gross FDI during July–May FY2025-26, while outflows totaled $1.65 billion, leaving net FDI at $1.62 billion.
Sector-Wise Breakdown
According to the SBP data, the power sector remained the largest recipient of foreign direct investment in May, attracting $85.8 million in net inflows, followed by financial business ($59.6 million) and transport ($34.4 million).
