Occupation restrictions deepen trade deficit amid calls for international pressure to open crossings

An economic report documents the deepening Palestinian trade deficit due to occupation restrictions, with renewed calls for international pressure to open crossings. May 2026 data shows a large trade gap: imports of $719.7 million versus exports of $193.3 million, with the deficit rising by 15%.

An economic report from Palestine Online newspaper documents the deepening Palestinian trade deficit due to Israeli occupation restrictions, amid renewed calls for international pressure to open crossings. Observers note that restrictions on the movement of goods and raw materials negatively affect productive sectors, especially industry and agriculture, weakening operational capacity and limiting growth. May 2026 data shows that Palestinians imported from the occupied interior the equivalent of $2.5 for every dollar exported, with exports reaching $193.3 million (96% to the occupation) versus imports of $719.7 million (65% from the occupation). The trade deficit rose by 15% compared to May 2025, reaching $526.4 million. The report quotes the director of the Palestinian Trade Center, Muhammad Skik, affirming the national product's ability to meet market needs despite challenges, calling for unified efforts to support production and establish a national export fund. It also quotes economic expert Khaled Abu Amer stating that restrictions include hindering the entry of raw materials and machinery, and that the genocide war on Gaza systematically destroyed economic facilities. The report notes that the Paris Economic Agreement restricts Palestinian trade by linking it to specific countries.