Pakistan’s seafood exports to China near $255 million in 2025

BEIJING:Pakistan’s seafood exports to China continued their upward trajectory in 2025, reaching nearly $255 million, according to data from the General Administration of Customs of China (GACC).

The gains were driven by sustained demand for frozen fish, cephalopods, and a growing range of processed seafood products in both coastal and inland markets.

China Customs data show that Pakistan’s seafood basket has diversified beyond traditional frozen fish, reflecting broader consumption channels and demand from foodservice and processing industries. Frozen fish remained the largest single export category, contributing about $64.6 million to Pakistan’s seafood exports to China.

Imports of Pakistani frozen fish were concentrated in major coastal and metropolitan entry points. The southern province of Guangdong was the largest destination by value and volume, importing 8.48 million kilograms worth $15.7 million. Shandong and Beijing followed, each exceeding 7 million kilograms in imports. Shanghai, Tianjin, and Zhejiang also recorded substantial volumes, highlighting the role of large urban centers and port provinces in China’s frozen seafood trade.

Smaller but notable shipments were recorded in inland provinces, including Sichuan, Yunnan, Guizhou, and Chongqing, suggesting a widening geographic reach for frozen seafood distribution supported by expanding cold-chain logistics.

Cephalopods emerged as another key growth pillar. Exports of frozen cuttlefish and squid reached nearly $31 million, while frozen octopus rose to almost $12 million, reflecting demand from catering chains and ready-to-cook seafood processors. Industry observers say these products are increasingly favored for their versatility and compatibility with cold-chain distribution.

Affordable pelagic fish also performed strongly. Frozen sardines, sardinella, brisling, or sprats recorded imports of around $14.9 million, supported by household consumption and demand from mass-market food manufacturers.

In addition to core frozen seafood, Pakistan exported roughly $14.4 million each in two higher value-added categories classified by China Customs as “fish” and “fish products,” indicating a gradual shift toward processed seafood lines. These categories align with China’s expanding market for convenience foods, e-commerce distribution, and ready-to-eat seafood products.

Analysts attributed the overall growth to improved compliance with Chinese food safety requirements, expanded approvals for Pakistani processing facilities, and competitive pricing supported by Pakistan’s marine resource base. Investment in cold-chain logistics and streamlined customs procedures also helped support higher volumes.