Pakistanis planning to give new currency notes as Eidi on Eidul Fitr 2026 will need to adjust their plans. The State Bank of Pakistan has officially confirmed that freshly designed banknotes will not be issued before Eid, putting an end to widespread speculation.
Why New Notes Won’t Arrive Before Eidul Fitr 2026
Speaking to the media, Jameel Ahmad, Governor of the State Bank, clarified that although designs for the new currency notes have already been approved by the federal cabinet, the printing process requires considerable time.
According to the central bank, even after design approval, steps such as:
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advanced security printing,
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quality checks,
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phased circulation planning
make it impossible to release the notes before Eidul Fitr 2026.
What’s Special About the Upcoming Currency Notes?
The SBP has confirmed that the upcoming banknotes will feature modern, international-standard security elements, making counterfeit detection easier for the public, banks, and businesses.
However, no official release date has been announced yet, and the rollout will happen gradually once printing is completed.
Major Banking & Economic Updates Shared by SBP Governor
Alongside the currency update, the SBP Governor also shared key economic developments that directly affect Pakistan’s financial outlook.
International Banks Eye Pakistan
The Governor revealed that three major international banks have expressed interest in opening branches in Pakistan. Talks are ongoing, though the countries involved were not disclosed.
Interest Rate Reality Check
Addressing a common misconception, the Governor explained:
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Lower interest rates do NOT reduce government spending
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Instead, they reduce SBP profits, which are transferred to the government
In the previous fiscal year alone, the SBP contributed PKR 2,400 billion to the national treasury.
Remittances, Exports & External Payments — Key Highlights
Record Remittances Expected
Pakistan’s overseas workers are expected to send around $42 billion in remittances during the current fiscal year — well above the annual target.
Exports Snapshot
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Rice exports declined sharply, affecting overall export figures
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Non-food exports increased by 5–6%
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Government support is expected to help rice exports recover
External Debt Payments
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$6 billion already paid
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$4 billion more due in the next five months
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SBP says all payments will be managed smoothly
Digital Payments & Currency Market Reforms
Massive Push for Digital Payments
The SBP plans to digitize 2 million merchants this year, significantly expanding Pakistan’s digital payment ecosystem.
Exchange Companies Crackdown
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Previously operating: 166 exchange companies
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Currently authorized: only 26
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Strict rules introduced for buying and selling foreign currency
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Violations will result in severe penalties
Bottom Line
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No new currency notes for Eidul Fitr 2026
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Designs approved, printing still pending
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Strong remittance inflows expected
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Foreign banks interested in Pakistan
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Major expansion in digital payments underway
For now, Pakistanis should not expect fresh notes this Eid, but the SBP says the upcoming currency redesign will be worth the wait.
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