Pakistan’s seafood exports have recorded an impressive rise this year, with shipments to China increasing by 25% in the first quarter of 2025. The total trade value reached $153 million — up from $121.93 million during the same period last year, according to data from the General Administration of Customs of China (GACC). This steady growth confirms the strengthening of Pakistan’s seafood exports under expanding trade cooperation between Islamabad and Beijing.
Frozen fish leads Pakistan’s seafood exports
A report by China Economic Net (CEN) revealed that frozen fish dominated Pakistan’s seafood exports, generating $40.10 million this year compared to $30.19 million in 2024, with a shipment volume of 21.83 million kilograms. Exports of fresh or chilled crabs followed, earning $25.68 million for 3.53 million kilograms, up from $22.65 million last year.
Sardines and cuttlefish see major growth
Frozen cuttlefish exports rose to $20.29 million in 2025, a modest increase from $19.83 million previously, totaling 8.04 million kilograms. Among all seafood varieties, frozen sardines and related species such as sardinella, brisling, and sprats witnessed the fastest growth — jumping to $11.24 million (18.39 million kilograms) from just above $3 million a year earlier. These figures underline the rising demand and consistent quality of Pakistan’s seafood exports in the Chinese market.
CPEC and better logistics drive export boom
The surge in Pakistan’s seafood exports reflects growing fisheries cooperation under the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC). Improved cold chain systems, modern certification processes, and the introduction of “green channel” customs clearance have made it easier for exporters to deliver fresh, high-quality seafood to Chinese consumers, enhancing Pakistan’s trade competitiveness.
Pakistan overtakes regional competitors
According to CEN, Pakistan has now overtaken Russia and Indonesia in seafood exports to China, which recorded $8.39 million and $1.33 million respectively in the same period. This success showcases the expanding footprint of Pakistan’s seafood exports and highlights its increasing role as a reliable supplier in China’s growing seafood market.
A partnership built on decades of cooperation
The milestone mirrors the depth of the Pakistan-China economic partnership, strengthened through decades of agreements and trade frameworks. Starting from the Barter Trade Agreement of 1963 to the transformational CPEC initiative, both nations have continued to reinforce their collaboration — with Pakistan’s seafood exports now serving as a shining example of mutual progress and prosperity.
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