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From rice to rags: Why Pakistan’s people stay dirt poor despite billions in exports

Produced by: Mohsin Shaikh

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Farm Backbone

Agriculture powers 24% of GDP and employs over a third of workers. Pakistan grows millions of tonnes of wheat, rice, and sugarcane—vital for food and export.

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Textile Titan

Textiles are Pakistan's industrial heart, dominating manufacturing and exports. Pakistan is among the world’s top textile exporters, per ITC data.

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Service Surge

With 58% of GDP, services lead the economy—spanning finance, telecom, IT, and trade. The sector is rapidly growing, driven by tech and urban demand.

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Export Engine

From Basmati rice to cricket bats, Pakistan’s exports keep the economy afloat. Textiles and rice alone bring in billions annually, says Pakistan Bureau of Statistics.

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Money Abroad

Overseas Pakistanis sent billions home, lifting families and the economy. FY2025 remittances jumped 33%, but benefits are uneven, reaching few poor households.

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SME Hustle

Small businesses are Pakistan's hidden giants—40% of GDP, 80% of jobs outside farms. Yet they remain underfinanced and overlooked in policy.

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Resource Rich

Coal, salt, and gypsum abound, while 25% of land is fertile, fed by massive canals. But inefficiencies and neglect curb their full potential.

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State Giants

Energy, transport, and utilities are dominated by SOEs. They’re crucial but often inefficient—many run losses while holding vast assets.

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Income Gap

The richest 10% take 42% of income. With 42.4% poverty and a $1,407 GDP per capita, Pakistan faces a deep economic divide, says World Bank.