Pakistan’s sesame seed exports to China skyrocketed by an impressive 300% year-on-year in the first half of 2025, according to data confirmed by Ghulam Qadir, Trade and Investment Counsellor at the Embassy of Pakistan.
From January to June 2025, Pakistan exported over 46 million kilograms of sesame seeds to China, generating $57.44 million in revenue. This marks a significant leap from the 8.6 million kilograms exported during the same period in 2024, which earned $14.39 million.
The export boom is primarily driven by a sharp increase in volume and a more competitive pricing strategy. The average price per kilogram fell from $1.67 in 2024 to $1.24 in 2025, positioning Pakistani sesame as an increasingly cost-effective option in the Chinese market.
Pakistan’s growing presence is reflected in its new rank as China’s fourth-largest sesame supplier, trailing behind Niger, Togo, and Ethiopia. Niger leads the market with exports exceeding 348 million kilograms valued at $471.53 million, followed by Togo (113 million kg, $166.92 million) and Ethiopia (64.9 million kg, $106.72 million). Pakistan’s lower average price gave it a competitive edge over its African counterparts, especially in a price-sensitive market like China.
Trade experts attribute this surge to improved bilateral trade facilitation, increased sesame cultivation by local farmers, and sustained efforts by Pakistani authorities to secure deeper market access in China.
“This growth reflects both strong demand for Pakistani agri-products and the confidence of Chinese importers in our ability to deliver quality and quantity,” said Ghulam Qadir. The increase in farmer participation also signals a growing recognition of sesame as a high-potential cash crop in Pakistan’s agriculture sector.
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