Pakistan Achieves Record Growth in Rice Exports to China
Beijing: Pakistan’s rice exports to China have witnessed an impressive 121% year-on-year increase in the first five months of 2025, highlighting strengthening trade ties between the two countries under the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC).
According to Ghulam Qadir, Trade and Investment Counsellor at the Pakistani Embassy in Beijing, this surge is a result of growing bilateral cooperation, particularly in the agriculture sector.
Trade Figures Reflect Rapid Expansion
Speaking to China Economic Net, Ghulam Qadir cited data from the General Administration of Customs of China, revealing that from January to May 2025, Pakistan exported $32.076 million worth of rice to China. This marks a sharp rise compared to $14.53 million during the same period in 2024.
The significant growth reflects rising demand for Pakistani rice in Chinese markets and the successful implementation of export facilitation initiatives.
Reasons Behind Rising Demand for Pakistani Rice
Ghulam Qadir credited several key factors behind the increase, including improved rice quality, competitive pricing, and recent trade facilitation measures such as tariff reductions and streamlined inspection procedures.
He noted that Pakistani rice varieties like Super Basmati and IRRI-6 have gained popularity in China for their rich aroma, long grain, and suitability with Chinese cuisine.
Future Prospects for Sino-Pak Agricultural Cooperation
Analysts believe that the expanding agricultural cooperation between Pakistan and China will further strengthen mutual economic interests. Upcoming collaborations in seed research and development, post-harvest technology, and traceability systems are expected to maintain this growth momentum while enhancing regional food security frameworks.
