ISLAMABAD — Pakistan’s cotton yarn exports to China totaled $203.29 million in the first half of 2025, according to the General Administration of Customs of China (GACC). While this marks a 19% decline from $251.51 million during the same period in 2024, the sector continues to demonstrate strong trade momentum under the China-Pakistan Free Trade Agreement (CPFTA).
Exports under commodity code 52051200 (uncombed single cotton yarn) amounted to $112 million, down from $144.85 million in the previous year. The average price for this year’s exports was $2.40 per kilogram, with 46.48 million kilograms shipped. Pakistan remains the second-largest exporter of this category after Vietnam.
Sajjad Mazahir, Director of Marketing at Keywin Trading Ltd., highlighted the transformation of Pakistan’s cotton yarn industry, shifting from surplus production to a more brand-based approach. Despite challenges such as high energy and logistics costs, Pakistan’s cotton yarn is well accepted in China’s denim market due to its competitive pricing and quality.
Mazahir views the decline as a positive trend, noting that the CPFTA is helping increase Pakistan’s exports of finished goods, which could open up greater opportunities in the future.
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Overall, Pakistan’s total exports to China reached $1.248 billion in the first half of 2025, with major export items including copper, cotton yarn, seafood, sesame seed, zinc ores, iron ores and concentrates, and rice.
The continued growth in cotton yarn exports underscores the strengthening trade relations between Pakistan and China, with the CPFTA playing a pivotal role in facilitating market access and fostering economic cooperation.