Pakistani Rice Exports to China Surge 200% in Jan–July 2026
BEIJING, (APP – UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News – 22nd Aug, 2026)
Pakistan’s rice exports to China experienced a remarkable growth in the first seven months of 2026, reaching US$ 122.99 million, according to the General Administration of Customs of the People’s Republic of China (GACC). This represents a 200.49% year-on-year increase compared to US$ 40.93 million in the same period of 2025.
In terms of volume, shipments grew by 265.55%, leaping from 98,723 metric tons in January-July 2025 to 360,887 metric tons in the current year.
This substantial increase solidifies Pakistan’s position as a key grain supplier to the Chinese market.
Categories Driving Export Growth:
The export basket is dominated by:
- Whole grain and industrial broken rice: Semi or wholly milled long-grain rice (HS 1006.3020) led the way, generating $58.10 million on shipments of 157,329 metric tons, a 76.48% year-on-year increase.
- Long-grain broken rice (HS 1006.4020) experienced the fastest growth, surging 607.89% to $41.50 million (130,110 metric tons).
- Short and medium grain broken rice (HS 1006.4080) expanded 988.07% to $23.40 million (73,448 metric tons).
Top Destinations:
Geographically, Guangdong Province is the leading destination for Pakistani rice, absorbing $41.64 million, representing nearly 34% of total shipments. Beijing Municipality ranks second with $37.57 million (30.55% share), followed by Jiangxi Province at $18.82 million (15.30% share), and Jiangsu Province at $8.38 million.
Strategic Factors Behind Growth:
A high-level delegation from Pakistan’s Rice Exporters Association visited Guangzhou, organized webinars, and engaged in extensive business-to-business (B2B) matchmaking sessions with leading Chinese importers, distributors, and food processing conglomerates. These efforts resulted in direct market access and significant commercial supply deals.
Muhammad Imran, Trade and Investment Counsellor at the Pakistan Consulate Guangzhou, noted that rice is a cornerstone of bilateral trade due to its competitive pricing, high milling quality, and growing utilization in China’s food processing and livestock feed sectors. He highlighted potential for further growth through:
- Transitioning from bulk raw commodities to higher-value branded packaged basmati.
- Investing in joint ventures for modern seed technology.
- Leveraging the China-Pakistan Free Trade Agreement.
