Poverty Rate Rises Significantly in Pakistan Over Recent Years, Economic Survey Reveals

Islamabad (Kudrat Daily) — Pakistan’s poverty rate has increased significantly over the past few years, according to the National Economic Survey 2025-26.

The survey revealed that the national poverty rate rose to 28.9 percent in the fiscal year 2024-25, compared to 21.9 percent recorded in the fiscal year 2018-19.

According to the report, urban poverty increased from 11 percent to 17.4 percent, while rural poverty rose from 28.2 percent to 36.2 percent, highlighting growing economic challenges across the country.

The survey further showed provincial disparities in poverty levels. In the last fiscal year, Punjab recorded a poverty rate of 23.3 percent, while Sindh’s poverty rate stood at 32.6 percent.

In Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, the poverty rate was recorded at 35.3 percent, whereas Balochistan reported the highest poverty rate in the country at 47 percent.

The findings indicate that poverty remains a major socio-economic challenge for Pakistan, particularly in rural areas and less-developed provinces, underscoring the need for targeted policies aimed at economic growth, job creation, and social protection.