Pakistan’s rice exports to China surged by an impressive 121% year-on-year in the first five months of 2025, reflecting stronger trade relations and agricultural cooperation under CPEC, according to Ghulam Qadir, Trade and Investment Counsellor at the Pakistan Embassy in China.
Ghulam Qadir cited data from China’s General Administration of Customs, noting that Pakistan’s rice exports to China totaled $32.076 million from January to May 2025; more than double the $14.53 million during the same period in 2024. The bulk of this growth came from semi- or wholly-milled rice (commodity code 10063020), which accounted for $26.68 million and 60,769 metric tons.
Qadir credited the spike to improved quality control, competitive pricing, and effective trade facilitation measures such as reduced tariffs and simplified inspection procedures. He noted that Pakistani long-grain rice, especially Super Basmati and IRRI-6, has gained favor among Chinese buyers for its fragrance, grain length, and adaptability in local cuisines.
Muhammad Ahsan, CEO of Al Falah Rice International, highlighted that Pakistani rice often delivers a higher milling yield, around 68–70%, compared to China’s average of 66–68%, especially in the case of hybrid japonica. This makes Pakistani rice more cost-effective for processors and attractive for retailers due to better shelf presentation.
He added that most Pakistani rice in China is sold in retail markets, particularly among the urban middle class seeking high-quality South Asian rice. However, about 30–35% is now also being used in the food processing sector, especially in the production of ready-to-eat meals and instant rice dishes catering to convenience-focused consumers.
Ahsan further noted that Chinese importers increasingly see Pakistan as a reliable supplier and a strategic partner in diversifying grain sources, particularly in light of regional climate challenges and price volatility in traditional rice-exporting countries.
Experts believe that as cooperation in agriculture grows, both nations expect deeper collaboration in seed research, post-harvest processing, and food traceability systems, key elements in maintaining this export momentum and strengthening regional food security.
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