The economic landscape of Pakistan has been marred by a recurring issue – the continuous depreciation of the Pakistani rupee (PKR) against the US dollar (USD). This article delves into the reasons behind this decline, the impact it has on the country, and what the future holds for the PKR.

The Daily Downward Spiral

For the 13th consecutive day, the Pakistani rupee fell against the US dollar. It opened at 282.5 PKR/USD in the interbank market and by 11:30 PM, it was hovering around the 284-285 PKR/USD range. The interbank rate took a nosedive between 1:30 PM and 2:30 PM, reaching 286 PKR/USD, and remained relatively stable for the rest of the day. The open market rates also ranged from 284-287 PKR/USD. By the close of the day, the PKR had depreciated by 0.18 percent, closing at 286.9 PKR/USD, a loss of 51 paisas against the dollar.

READ MORE: ICC Labels Virat Kohli’s Six off Haris Rauf’s Bowling as the ‘Shot of the Century’

Factors Behind the Depreciation

3.1. Exchange Rate Movements

The PKR’s continuous depreciation can be attributed to exchange rate movements. Since January 2023, it has plummeted by nearly Rs. 70 against the USD. Going further back to April 2022, it has devalued by over Rs. 117 against the greenback. On the very day, the PKR lost more than 50 paisas against the dollar. This volatility is partially due to the ongoing discussions with the International Monetary Fund (IMF).

3.2. IMF Negotiations

Talks with the IMF have reached a crucial point, with the lender demanding stringent reforms to address Pakistan’s financial needs. Technical-level negotiations began on November 3, and policy-level discussions are scheduled to start on November 13. Analysts predict that the rupee-to-dollar exchange rate will remain volatile throughout November.

Impact on the Common Man

The depreciation of the PKR has far-reaching consequences for the average Pakistani citizen. It leads to an increase in the cost of imported goods, making daily necessities more expensive. Inflation and rising prices are often the immediate consequences, affecting the purchasing power of the people. Additionally, it can put pressure on industries reliant on imports, potentially leading to layoffs and reduced economic growth.

Expert Opinions

Economists and financial experts are closely monitoring this situation. They emphasize the need for Pakistan to implement reforms, stabilize its currency, and strengthen its economic fundamentals. The country’s reliance on external financing has left it vulnerable to currency devaluation, and it’s crucial to address this issue to secure a more stable financial future.

The Future of the PKR

The future of the Pakistani rupee remains uncertain. It largely depends on the outcome of negotiations with the IMF, the government’s ability to implement the required reforms, and the global economic conditions. For now, it seems that the PKR will continue to experience volatility in the near future.

Conclusion

The continuous depreciation of the Pakistani rupee against the US dollar is a concerning issue that impacts the country’s economy and the livelihood of its citizens. Addressing this problem requires both short-term and long-term solutions to stabilize the currency and ensure economic growth.