Pakistan Positions as Key Sesame Supplier to China with 2025 Export Target

Pakistan is rapidly emerging as a key agricultural exporter to China, with a bold target of exporting 10,000 metric tonnes of sesame seeds in 2025 under the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC). This ambitious drive, backed by Chinese investment and expertise, is transforming sesame cultivation through contract farming, technology transfer, and modern infrastructure. China Machinery Engineering Corporation has already expanded sesame farming across 5,000 acres in Pakistan, introducing cutting-edge techniques, farmer training, and strict quality controls to meet booming Chinese demand.

In 2024, Pakistan’s sesame exports to China hit $226 million, with continued growth expected as China’s imports exceed 1 million tonnes annually. Analysts believe that CPEC-driven agricultural cooperation could push Pakistan’s total agri-exports to China beyond $20 billion in the long term. Contract farming is providing farmers with stability, while joint research initiatives are introducing climate-resilient seed varieties and better pest control methods.

Meanwhile, rice exports have also soared, with shipments to China jumping nearly 70% in the first eight months of 2025. Milled and broken rice fetched over $44 million, up from just $26 million last year. Experts credit this rise to improved trade facilitation under the China-Pakistan Free Trade Agreement, competitive pricing, and growing recognition of Pakistani rice quality.

Despite these gains, climate challenges loom large. Recent floods have raised concerns about the resilience of Pakistan’s agriculture and its ability to maintain export momentum. Yet, officials remain optimistic, seeing these milestones as a powerful testament to the untapped potential of CPEC-driven agri-trade, capable of boosting farmer incomes and deepening bilateral trade ties with China.