Pakistan’s salt exports to China have seen a remarkable increase of 40% in the first quarter of 2025, according to data released by the Pakistan Bureau of Statistics (PBS).
The surge marks a significant boost in bilateral trade, with over 150,000 metric tons of salt exported between January and March 2025, compared to around 107,000 metric tons in the same period last year. The total revenue generated from salt exports during Q1 2025 is estimated at $12.5 million, up from $8.9 million in Q1 2024.
Officials attribute the sharp increase to rising demand from China’s food processing and industrial sectors, as well as successful trade negotiations and improved logistical coordination between the two countries.
Trade analysts also credit Pakistan’s Himalayan pink salt—often marketed globally as a premium product—for capturing a growing share of the Chinese market.
“China’s expanding food and health industries have created a higher demand for natural and mineral-rich salt, and Pakistan is well-positioned to meet this demand,” said a spokesperson from the Ministry of Commerce.
The government aims to further enhance exports by promoting value-added salt products and exploring new markets within the region.
This development comes as Pakistan continues to diversify its export portfolio under its “Look East” policy, focusing on expanding trade relations with Asian economies.
