Pakistan’s sesame seed exports to China climbed 87% year-on-year to $68.56 million during the first nine months of 2025, according to data from the General Administration of Customs of China (GACC).
From January to September 2025, Pakistan exported 55.61 million kilograms of sesame seeds to China at an average price of $1.23 per kilogram.
During the same period last year, exports totaled 23.95 million kilograms, valued at $36.59 million, with an average price of $1.52 per kilogram — reflecting a 132% increase in volume.
China’s total sesame imports have grown steadily, driven by rising demand for edible oils and traditional food processing. Niger remained China’s largest supplier with $543.02 million in exports, followed by Togo ($189.10 million), Tanzania ($161.68 million), Ethiopia ($144.03 million), Mozambique ($121.18 million), and Myanmar ($88.56 million).
Pakistani exporters said the strong performance reflects improvements in agricultural output and increased cooperation with Chinese enterprises. Joint initiatives in value addition and post-harvest processing have enhanced export quality and consistency.
Pakistan’s Ambassador to China Khalil Hashmi said that during the “Sesame Trade and Investment Opportunities in China” event held in September 2024, a 23-member Pakistani delegation secured deals for 15,000 metric tons and signed a $28 million memorandum of understanding with Daming government-backed enterprises. He added that 177 Pakistani sesame companies are now registered in China.
Experts noted that sesame seed demand in China is expanding rapidly due to its use in the food, oil, and health product industries. They said Pakistan’s high-quality sesame and favorable climate offer a strong growth outlook, with exports expected to continue rising despite recent flood-related disruptions.
