By Zafar Hussain

BEIJING, Mar. 26 (China Economic Net) - Pakistan's exports to China recorded a robust 27.68 percent year-on-year increase in the first two months of 2026, underscoring deepening trade ties and strong demand from South China's industrial and food-processing hubs, as per data from the General Administration of Customs of the People's Republic of China (GACC).

According GACC data, Pakistan’s exports reached $566.75 million during January–February 2026, compared with $443.88 million in the same period of 2025. The growth was largely fueled by rising shipments to five key southern provinces: Guangdong, Guangxi, Fujian, Hunan, and Hainan, which collectively serve as major gateways and consumption centers for Pakistani goods.

Muhammad Imran, Trade and Investment Counsellor at Pakistan’s Consulate in Guangzhou, told China Economic Net that in South China, food and agriculture imports surged by 28.9 percent to $8.9 million, while mineral and mining imports climbed 23 percent to $96.3 million. In contrast, textile and clothing imports declined by 25.9 percent to $35.8 million, reflecting shifting global demand and structural challenges.

Imran highlighted that South China’s expanding food processing industry has significantly boosted demand for Pakistani agricultural products. Provinces such as Guangdong, Guangxi, and Fujian have seen continued growth in fruit processing and beverage manufacturing, driving imports of rice, sesame seeds, and spices. Improved logistics infrastructure, particularly at ports in Shenzhen, Guangzhou, and Xiamen, has further strengthened Pakistan’s position, with around 65 percent of its agricultural exports to China entering through these southern gateways.

“The mineral sector also played a critical role in export growth. Guangdong’s expanding copper processing capacity driven by demand from electric vehicles and power infrastructure has increased imports of Pakistani copper and related materials. Similarly, Guangxi’s strategic location and industrial base have made it a key destination for mineral imports, while strong demand from green energy and electronics industries in Guangdong and Fujian continues to support sustained growth”, he added.

Analysts note that with continued infrastructure improvements and industrial demand in South China, Pakistan’s export momentum is likely to remain strong in the coming months.