Pakistan’s Rice Exports to China Surge 84% in First Half of 2025
Pakistan’s rice exports to China saw a significant rise in the first half of 2025, climbing 84% compared to the same period last year. According to data from the China General Administration of Customs, Pakistan exported rice worth $35.93 million to China between January and June 2025. This marks a sharp increase from $19.53 million in the first half of 2024.
The largest contributor to this growth was semi-wholly milled rice (commodity code 10063020), which accounted for $29.53 million. This category alone saw 66.96 million kilograms shipped to China in just six months. Broken rice also saw notable growth, with total exports valued at $6.39 million.
Specifically, the Irri-6 variety (commodity code 10064020) brought in $4.52 million, with volumes reaching over 13.37 million kilograms. Another type of broken rice, characterized by shorter grain length (commodity code 10064080), accounted for over $1.87 million in exports.
Trade and Investment Counsellor Ghulam Qadir from the Pakistan Embassy in Beijing attributed the growth to China’s strategic efforts to diversify its import sources and enhance food secu-rity. China is actively seeking dependable partners to strengthen its agricultural import network. Pakistan, with its growing rice production and improved export standards, fits well into this strategy.
This trade boost is also a result of improved bilateral relations, trade agreements, and better logistics coordination between the two countries. With quality standards on the rise and demand from China increasing, Pakistani exporters are optimistic about future expansion.
Agricultural experts believe this trend could bring long-term benefits to Pakistan’s economy. The rising demand from China not only enhances Pakistan’s agri-export footprint but also injects much-needed revenue into the farming sector. As both nations look to deepen trade ties, rice remains a vital commodity linking their economic futures.
With China continuing its push for food secu-rity and diversified supply chains, Pakistan is likely to remain a preferred source of rice, strengthening its position in the global agricultural market.
