BEIJING (APP) – Pakistan’s exports to China recorded a sharp increase during the first five months of 2026, reflecting growing economic ties and rising demand for Pakistani products in the Chinese market.
According to data released by the General Administration of Customs of China, Pakistan exported goods worth more than $1.55 billion to China between January and May 2026, compared with $1.04 billion during the same period last year, representing a year-on-year growth of 48.7 percent.
The increase added more than $500 million to Pakistan’s export earnings in just five months and marked one of the strongest performances in bilateral trade in recent years.
Copper and related products remained the leading export category, generating $675 million in revenue and accounting for nearly 44 percent of total exports to China. The sector posted significant growth as Chinese industrial demand continued to strengthen.
March emerged as the strongest month of the period, with exports reaching $361.6 million, supported by higher copper shipments and increased agricultural exports, particularly rice. Strong export momentum continued through April and May.
Among Chinese regions, Zhejiang Province remained the largest destination for Pakistani goods, while Beijing recorded a substantial increase in imports, driven by higher purchases of rice and sesame seeds. Trade through Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region also expanded significantly, reflecting growing connectivity under the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor.
Officials attributed the growth to the benefits of the China-Pakistan Free Trade Agreement, which has improved market access for Pakistani exporters. Negotiations on the next phase of the agreement are continuing and are expected to open additional opportunities for exports of agricultural products, halal meat, textiles and minerals.
Trade experts say the latest figures highlight Pakistan’s increasing integration into regional supply chains and underline the importance of strengthening export-oriented industries to sustain long-term growth.
