China is Pakistan's largest trading partner — but trade flows mostly one way, with Pakistan importing far more than it exports. For Pakistani exporters, that imbalance represents opportunity: China is a huge market, and the China-Pakistan Free Trade Agreement gives preferential access to many products.
The China-Pakistan Free Trade Agreement
The China-Pakistan Free Trade Agreement (CPFTA) entered its second phase in 2020, expanding tariff liberalisation. Many Pakistani products can enter China at reduced or zero duties, subject to meeting the agreement's rules of origin with the correct certificate of origin. Check the preferential rate for your product's code, and ask your chamber or TDAP about the current certificate procedure. See certificate of origin guide.
Food Exports: GACC Registration
China's customs authority, the General Administration of Customs of China (GACC), requires overseas manufacturers of many food products to be registered before their products can be exported to China. Depending on the product category, registration may be recommended by the exporting country's competent authority or submitted by the manufacturer. Some products also require specific protocols agreed between the two governments — for example, particular fruits or animal products can only be exported once market access has been approved.
Before approaching Chinese food buyers, confirm:
- Whether your product has market access
- Whether your facility needs GACC registration, and how to apply
- What certificates — health, phytosanitary — are needed
Labelling and Inspection
Imported food and many consumer products require Chinese-language labels meeting Chinese standards. Products may be inspected on arrival. Non-compliant goods can be rejected or destroyed. Work closely with your Chinese importer, who is usually responsible for label compliance.
Products With Potential
Pakistani products that have found markets in China include:
- Seafood — see exporting seafood
- Rice — see exporting rice from Pakistan
- Sesame seeds and other agricultural products
- Textiles, yarn, and fabric
- Minerals and ores
- Himalayan salt and niche consumer products
- Surgical instruments and sports goods in specific niches
Market Entry Channels
- Importers and distributors with the licences and knowledge to handle customs and labelling
- Trade fairs — China hosts large import-focused fairs such as the China International Import Expo (CIIE) in Shanghai
- Cross-border e-commerce platforms, which have their own simplified import regimes for certain consumer goods
- Business councils and chambers linking Pakistani and Chinese companies
💡 Localise your materials
Chinese buyers expect product information, catalogues, and company profiles in Chinese. A professionally translated catalogue and a presence on the business platforms Chinese buyers use signal that you are serious about the market.
Business Culture
Relationships (often described as *guanxi*) and trust matter. Initial meetings may focus on getting to know each other. Negotiations can be detailed and price-focused. Chinese buyers value responsiveness, reliability, and flexibility. Having someone who speaks Chinese — or working through a trusted partner — can make a significant difference.
Payment
Letters of credit and telegraphic transfers are common. Currency conversion and payment rules in China may affect how buyers pay — discuss payment early and qualify buyers carefully. See export payment methods.
Logistics
Sea freight from Karachi to Chinese ports such as Shanghai, Ningbo, or Guangzhou takes a few weeks. Overland routes through the Khunjerab Pass are used for some trade, though capacity is limited and seasonal.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does Pakistan have a free trade agreement with China?
Yes. The China-Pakistan Free Trade Agreement, with its second phase in effect since 2020, provides reduced or zero duties on many Pakistani products, subject to rules of origin.
What is GACC registration?
GACC registration is China's requirement that overseas manufacturers of many food products register with China's customs authority before their products can be exported to China.
Do labels need to be in Chinese?
Yes. Imported food and many consumer products require Chinese-language labels that meet Chinese standards, usually arranged with the importer.
Selling Into a New Market?
Hexaco Global connects Pakistani manufacturers with verified buyers in the US, Europe, the Gulf, and beyond — and handles the negotiation and paperwork along the way.
See How We Help Exporters →