Pakistan’s industrial output recorded a sharp recovery, with large-scale manufacturing (LSM) posting strong growth compared to last year, according to fresh data released by the Pakistan Bureau of Statistics (PBS) on Friday.

On a year-on-year basis, LSM output rose by 8.33% in October, reflecting improved industrial activity. On a monthly basis, industrial growth increased by 3.75% in October, the report said.

During the first four months of the current fiscal year (July-October), overall industrial growth stood at 5.02%, indicating a sustained recovery trend.

The automobile sector led the expansion. Output surged by 78.89% during July-October, while month-on-month growth in October jumped 65%, the PBS data showed.

The construction-linked cement sector also posted gains, with production increasing by 12.73%. The garments sector showed improved performance, recording growth of 10.99%.

Petroleum products registered a sharp monthly increase of 48.97% in October. On a cumulative basis, the petroleum sector recorded growth of over 12% during July–October.

However, the report noted that several key industries remained under pressure during the same period. Pharmaceutical production declined by 11.96%, while iron and steel output fell by 2.40%.

The chemical sector also posted a contraction, with production dropping by 9.17%, the PBS report added.