Sports goods exports to China rise 7%

'Surge in exports highlights the strengthening trade ties between Pakistan and China under the framework of the CPEC.'

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Data from China’s General Administration of Customs showed that in the first 11 months of 2024, China imported basketballs, footballs and volleyballs worth $10.7 million from Pakistan, a rise of 6.68% compared with the same period of last year.

The development highlights Pakistan’s growing status as a global hub for high-quality sporting goods as well as reflects its growing economic ties with China.

Pakistan has an enduring practice of producing high-quality sports goods, including footballs, basketballs, volleyballs and other accessories.

Experts believe that the country’s skilled artisans are renowned for their expertise in this field. Despite its superb craftsmanship and a large pool of workers, the industry’s poor access to international markets has hampered its growth for a long time.

However, China provides Pakistan with an excellent opportunity to expand its influence and open up new markets now.

As the world’s largest manufacturing country, China has advanced technology, a huge economic volume and a complete trade network, all of which can help Pakistan’s sporting goods industry to undergo significant changes.

National Bank of Pakistan chief representative Sheikh Mohammad Shariq noted that during his tenure in China, he witnessed a growing interest in sports among the Chinese people, which is driven by a health-conscious middle class and government-backed fitness initiatives, creating a strong market for sporting goods.

Pakistani footballs, a specialty product of Sialkot manufacturers, remain a major export, while basketballs and volleyballs have also seen growth due to their growing popularity in Chinese schools and professional leagues.

“China’s expanding grassroots sports programmes and preparations for hosting major sporting events have increased demand for high-quality equipment. The surge in exports highlights the strengthening trade ties between Pakistan and China under the framework of the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor,” Shariq added