Islamabad 28 July: Pakistan’s sesame seed exports to China skyrocketed by 300% in value during the first half of 2025, driven by higher volumes and competitive pricing, officials said.
According to news reports from January to June 2025, Pakistan shipped 46,029,511 kilograms of sesame seeds to China, earning $57.44 million—a massive jump from 8,608,260 kilograms worth $14.39 million in the same period last year.
The average price per kilogram fell from $1.67 in H1 2024 to $1.24 in H1 2025, making Pakistani sesame more appealing to Chinese buyers.
READ MORE: Pakistan Becomes the Third-Largest Sesame Exporter Globally
During this period, Pakistan became China’s fourth-largest sesame seed provider, trailing Niger, Togo, and Ethiopia. Exporters credited the competitive pricing—lower than African rivals—for boosting market share. They also noted rising sesame cultivation among Pakistani farmers, signaling sectoral growth.
The surge highlights strengthened trade ties and reinforces Pakistan’s role in China’s diversified sesame import market.
Sesame Cultivation on the Rise:
Farmers across Punjab, Sindh, and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa are increasingly shifting to sesame cultivation due to its high profitability and relatively low water requirements compared to traditional crops like cotton and rice. The country’s favorable climate and improved farming techniques have contributed to higher yields, with production estimates for 2025 expected to surpass previous records.
“Sesame is becoming a preferred crop for small and medium farmers because of its short growth cycle and strong export potential,” said Muhammad Asif, an agricultural expert based in Lahore. “Government support and better access to Chinese markets have further encouraged production.”
