Why are people in Pakistan hoarding Iranian currency? Rials are being sold for scrap. What will happen?
- bySherya
- 23 Apr, 2026
Iran Rial Investment: People in Pakistan are buying cheap Iranian rials. However, experts say this is a very risky investment. Let's find out why people in Pakistan are doing this.
Why are people in Pakistan depositing Iranian currency?
Pakistan Rial Demand: A unique trend is being observed these days in neighbouring Pakistan. People are rapidly accumulating old notes and coins of Iran's currency, the Rial. Surprisingly, there's no official transaction behind this, but rather, people are doing so because they expect a future price increase. Let's explore the entire matter.
Why is the demand for Iranian Rial increasing in Pakistan?
1. Currency is available at very low prices: The Iranian rial is considered one of the weakest currencies in the world. It is arriving in large quantities in local markets in Pakistan, especially with scrap goods. Consequently, people are buying millions of rials at very low prices.
2. Expectations of future profits: Buyers believe that if Iran's economy improves in the future or international sanctions against Iran are lifted, the value of the current currency will increase. This will allow them to make substantial profits. Both of these factors are driving demand for the riyal in Pakistan.
3. Riyal will make you rich: Due to the desire to become rich, people are buying Iranian currency as if it is a lottery ticket.
Currency is in a junk state
The Iranian rial has deteriorated to the point where it's almost considered worthless in many places. This is largely due to the rapid inflation, which has eroded public confidence in their own currency. The situation has become so dire that Iranians increasingly trust the dollar or gold, considering it safer than the rial.
Therein lies a great risk
1. According to experts, investing in the Iranian rial can be quite risky. This is because Iran's economy is already under pressure, and the future outcome is uncertain.
2. Furthermore, there is no legal exchange market for this currency in Pakistan. Therefore, people are at risk of being defrauded or losing their money completely.



