Pakistan’s exports of knitted and crocheted apparel, including jerseys, pullovers, cardigans, and waistcoats, to China have grown steadily by 11% during the first five months of 2025, reaching $4.30 million, up from $3.87 million in the same period last year, according to the latest data from China Customs.
This growth highlights Pakistan’s increasing presence in China’s competitive apparel market, especially in mid-range and winterwear segments. Industry insiders attribute the growth to Pakistan’s expanding capacity in cotton-blended knitwear production and improved compliance with Chinese quality and certification standards.
“Pakistani exporters have upgraded their production lines with better dyeing and finishing techniques, which has helped meet Chinese consumers’ preference for comfort and durability in winter clothing,” said Mohammad Azhar, a Lahore-based trade expert.
Market observers note that most of these exports are routed through China’s eastern coastal provinces, with Zhejiang and Jiangsu leading in import volume. Jiangsu Province imported more than $2.79 million worth of products during the first five months of 2025, followed by Zhejiang and Henan. The demand is largely driven by private-label and e-commerce apparel sectors seeking cost-effective alternatives to domestic production.
Ghulam Qadir, Trade and Investment Counsellor, stated that Pakistan benefits from zero-tariff access under the second phase of the China-Pakistan Free Trade Agreement (CPFTA-II), which gives it a competitive edge over other regional suppliers. However, stakeholders emphasize the need for further diversification of product lines and greater focus on design innovation to sustain and expand this growth.
Mohammad Azhar also highlighted the rising trend of environmentally friendly and sustainable knitwear in China, adding that if Pakistani exporters can follow China’s green textile standards and invest in recycled yarn technology, the country is expected to open up new export opportunities in the high-end market, China Economic Net reported.
Experts believe that with winter approaching, Pakistan’s knitwear sector is likely to maintain its momentum in the second half of the year.