Speculation is growing over whether the State Bank of Pakistan (SBP) will release newly designed Pakistani Rupee (PKR) currency notes by Eid-ul-Fitr 2026, as preparations for the launch have already been completed.
According to media reports, the SBP has finalised its internal groundwork for issuing new currency notes but is currently awaiting approval from the federal cabinet. Without cabinet clearance, the printing and circulation process cannot formally begin.
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The Pakistan Security Printing Corporation (PSPC), which is responsible for printing banknotes, has confirmed that the upcoming currency notes will carry modern designs and enhanced security features. However, the final approved designs have not yet been formally handed over to PSPC for printing.
A senior PSPC official told local media that once cabinet approval is granted, the printing process alone would require at least two months.
READ: How to get fresh bank notes for Eid-ul-Fitr 2025
This timeline makes it unlikely for the new notes to be issued this Eid-ul-Fitr 2026, even if approval is granted in the near future.
Senior Manager Printing at PSPC, Amir Shams, said consultations between the State Bank and PSPC regarding the new currency have already taken place. He added that SBP is still reviewing its rollout strategy for the redesigned notes.
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According to Shams, the central bank is considering two options.
One option is to introduce the new currency notes in phases, starting with select denominations. The second option is to release all denominations at once. A final decision on this matter has not yet been made.
The State Bank is expected to announce its official printing and issuance schedule later this year, once cabinet approval is secured and design formalities are completed.
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