Balochistan Records Pakistan's Highest Poverty Rate at 47%: Economic Survey 2025–26
QUETTA: Balochistan has emerged as the province with the highest poverty rate in Pakistan, according to the Pakistan Economic Survey 2025–26. The report states that 47 percent of the province's population is living below the poverty line, far above the national average of 28.9 percent.
The survey highlights growing economic challenges across Balochistan, where unemployment, inflation, limited industrial development, and inadequate public services continue to affect millions of residents. Analysts say the province's economy has struggled for years due to weak infrastructure, a lack of investment, and limited employment opportunities.
Economic experts also point to restrictions on cross-border trade with neighboring Iran and Afghanistan as a major factor behind declining household incomes. Thousands of families in border districts have traditionally relied on small-scale trade for their livelihoods, but tighter border regulations and the closure of several crossing routes have significantly reduced economic activity.
Residents in many parts of the province continue to face shortages of healthcare, quality education, clean drinking water, and other essential public services. Rising prices and increasing unemployment have further intensified financial pressures on households, leaving many families struggling to meet their daily needs.
Recent incidents have reflected the social impact of the ongoing economic crisis. In Dera Bugti, a man reportedly attempted to take his own life due to financial hardship and unemployment. In Quetta, another young man publicly burned his educational certificates while protesting the lack of employment opportunities.
Economists warn that unless comprehensive measures are introduced to create jobs, improve public services, strengthen local industries, and encourage sustainable economic growth, poverty levels in Balochistan could continue to rise.
The findings of the Pakistan Economic Survey have once again drawn attention to the province's economic challenges and the need for long-term development policies aimed at improving living standards across Balochistan.
