Pakistan’s Seafood Exports to China Surge to Record Levels
Pakistan’s seafood industry is riding a strong wave of growth as exports to China reach record highs, highlighting the deepening trade relationship between the two countries and the rising global demand for Pakistani marine products. In 2025, Pakistan’s seafood exports to China climbed to nearly $255 million, making China the country’s largest and most valuable seafood market. This growth reflects both increasing Chinese consumption and Pakistan’s expanding capacity to meet international quality and safety standards.
1/26/20261 min read
Expanding Market Reach
Traditionally concentrated in China’s coastal regions, Pakistani seafood is now reaching major inland cities such as Beijing and other high-consumption urban centers. Improved cold-chain logistics and faster transportation networks have played a crucial role in enabling exporters to serve these distant markets while maintaining product freshness and quality.
High-Demand Seafood Products
Frozen fish continues to dominate Pakistan’s seafood exports to China, followed closely by cephalopods such as squid, cuttlefish, and octopus. Pelagic fish species, including sardines and sprats, have also seen steady demand. In recent years, there has been a noticeable shift toward value-added and processed seafood, aligning with China’s growing preference for ready-to-cook and convenience food products.
China’s Dominant Share in Exports
China now accounts for nearly 60 percent of Pakistan’s total seafood export earnings, underlining its importance as a strategic trading partner. During the first half of the current fiscal year alone, fisheries exports to China crossed approximately $149 million, reinforcing the country’s position as Pakistan’s top seafood destination.
What’s Driving the Growth?
Several factors are fueling this upward trend:
Rising seafood consumption in China due to changing dietary preferences
Improved compliance with Chinese food safety and quality regulations
Expanded approval of Pakistani seafood processing facilities
Stronger trade facilitation under regional cooperation frameworks, including CPEC
These developments have helped Pakistani exporters compete more effectively in one of the world’s largest and most demanding seafood markets.
A Promising Outlook
With continued investment in processing, quality control, and logistics, Pakistan’s seafood sector is well-positioned for further expansion in China. The sustained growth not only boosts export revenues but also supports coastal livelihoods, employment, and the overall development of Pakistan’s blue economy.
Disclaimer: This update is shared based on publicly available information. VOTG News is not responsible for any decisions made based on this news. The image is AI-generated only for illustration