Pakistan, Sept. 3 -- Pakistan's trade deficit rose 18.11% during the first two months of the current fiscal year. The deficit increased from around $6 billion to $7.11 billion, according to Pakistan Bureau of Statistics data. Imports grew faster than exports during July and August. The widening gap highlights increased pressure from higher import levels.

Goods exports increased 7% during the two-month period, while imports climbed more than 13%. Imports reached $12.57 billion, compared with exports worth $5.45 billion. The trade deficit therefore increased by more than $1 billion year-on-year. August also recorded a notable monthly decline in exports.

Exports fell 15% in August compared with July, dropping from $2.95 billion to $2.50 bi...