Pakistan among top 10 grain suppliers to China
In an impressive achievement, Pakistan has emerged as one of the top 10 exporters of grain and its products to China in 2022. According to the 2023 China Import Food Report released at the China Import Food Summit, Pakistan’s grain exports to China amounted to $456 million, reflecting a 14.12% growth year on year. This signifies the growing importance of the Chinese market for Pakistani traders.
As per the report, sesame and rice are among the key products exported by Pakistan to China. Muhammad Omair, a leading Pakistani sesame and rice dealer, expressed his amazement at the vibrant consumption market in China during his first visit. His company alone has exported over 150 containers of sesame to China this year, a significant accomplishment. Omair is determined to further increase these numbers by setting up an exhibition stand at the China International Import Expo (CIIE).
The success of Pakistan’s grain exports to China can be attributed to factors such as competitive prices, high-quality products, and the bilateral free trade agreement between the two countries. Chinese oil extraction companies have shown a particular liking for sesame due to its high oil content. This has contributed to the increasing popularity of Pakistani sesame in China, resulting in substantial export growth. In the first three quarters of this year, Pakistan exported sesame worth $56.446 million to China, which represents a remarkable 41% growth compared to the same period in 2022, as reported by China’s General Administration of Customs (CGAC).
Additionally, broken rice for animal feed has also witnessed a surge in demand from China. Despite the challenges posed by natural disasters like floods, Pakistani exporters managed to consistently export between 70-200 containers of broken rice to China on a monthly basis. CGAC statistics reveal a 20% increase in China’s import of broken rice from Pakistan.
Pakistani traders are currently participating in the CIIE, seizing the opportunity to establish lucrative business connections and expand their presence in the vast Chinese market. The CIIE, which is taking place offline and unhindered by the pandemic, serves as a platform for international businesses, including those from Pakistan, to explore the numerous opportunities available in China.
Source: The Express Tribune