Exports to China soar over 50%

Exporters capitalise on demand for sugar, bagasse, other products

BEIJING/ISLAMABAD:

 

Pakistan's exports to China reached $1.874 billion in the first half of 2026, reflecting a substantial 50.7% surge compared with exports of $1.244 billion recorded in the same period of 2025, according to the General Administration of Customs of China (GACC).

Monthly performance demonstrated a consistent growth momentum throughout the period, with March 2026 recording the highest export value at $361.37 million, an 84.1% year-on-year increase from $196.16 million in March 2025.

Pakistani agro-industrial sectors, particularly sugar, bagasse and related agricultural products, anchored the export expansion. Exporters have significantly scaled up shipments of raw materials and intermediate products to Chinese mills, distilleries and manufacturing units, capitalising on established supply chains under sugar and biomass trade corridors.

"The 50.7% growth reflects the maturity of our industrial partnership with China. Pakistani exporters have now established themselves as reliable suppliers to China's energy and manufacturing sectors, particularly in sugar processing and biomass utilisation," said a senior official from Pakistan's Ministry of Commerce.

Banking infrastructure improvements have been instrumental. Pakistani exporters now access Chinese financing mechanisms including lease finance facilities and extended credit terms through major commercial banks.