ISLAMABAD: China has officially opened its market to Pakistani maize, paving the way for a potentially significant boost to Pakistan’s agricultural exports and deepening bilateral cooperation in the farm sector.
According to the General Administration of Customs of China, new quarantine and phytosanitary requirements for the import of Pakistani maize came into effect on July 7, formally permitting shipments from Pakistan once all regulatory conditions are met.
The decision provides Pakistan with access to one of the world’s largest maize import markets. China imported nearly 26 million tonnes of maize in 2023, valued at around $9 billion, primarily to meet demand from its livestock and animal feed industries.
The new market access offers Pakistani exporters an opportunity to expand beyond their traditional destinations, including Vietnam, while strengthening the country’s agricultural export earnings.
Before commercial exports can begin, Pakistani producers and exporters must complete a series of compliance measures required by the Chinese authorities.
Farms, processing plants and storage facilities must be registered with Chinese customs, while exporters will also need to meet stringent phytosanitary standards, including pest management, fumigation and certification requirements designed to safeguard food safety and quarantine regulations.
The latest approval builds on growing agricultural cooperation between the two countries. In recent years, China has expanded market access for a range of Pakistani agricultural products, including dried fruits, nuts and medicinal plants, reflecting broader efforts to enhance bilateral trade under their longstanding economic partnership.
Maize is Pakistan’s third-largest cereal crop after wheat and rice and plays a vital role in the country’s agriculture sector.
Industry observers believe access to China’s vast import market could stimulate higher production, encourage investment in modern farming practices, improve post-harvest storage and processing infrastructure, and generate greater export revenues for the country.
Officials and exporters are expected to work closely to complete the remaining regulatory formalities so that commercial shipments can begin.
Once operational, maize exports are likely to become another important component of Pakistan-China agricultural trade, creating fresh opportunities for farmers while further strengthening economic ties between the two neighbouring countries.
