ISLAMABAD: Pakistani exports to Saudi Arabia increased by 34 percent in June despite coronavirus restrictions, according to data from Pakistan’s commerce ministry shared with the national assembly, Pakistani media reported on Monday.

Bilateral trade between Pakistan and the Kingdom increased to $2.181 billion in fiscal year 2020, commerce ministry figures showed. Exports to Saudi Arabia have seen a consistent increase from $336.9 million in 2017 to $342.08 million in 2019 and $446.18 million in 2020. Imports from Saudi Arabia to Pakistan, however, declined from $3.213 billion in 2018 to $1.735 billion in 2020. 

In March-June this year, exports to Qatar also increased to $50.13 million compared to $39.33 million in March-June 2019. In fiscal year 2020, exports to Qatar jumped by 36 percent. Exports to Qatar also saw an upward trend throughout February to June this year, with a 40 percent increase in June alone.