Pakistan's Central Government Debt (% of GDP), 1990-2022

Pakistan's central government debt fluctuated significantly from 1990 to 2022, influenced by fiscal deficits, economic crises, and external assistance. Debt rose from 53.54% in 1990 to 72.15% in 2001 due to high borrowing and weak revenue performance. Subsequent reforms in the 2000s brought debt down to 47.08% by 2007, supported by economic growth and fiscal discipline.

However, challenges returned post-2008, with debt increasing steadily, peaking at 79.56% in 2020 amid pandemic-related spending. By 2022, debt remained elevated at 75.75%, reflecting ongoing economic challenges, including currency depreciation and high borrowing costs.