Pakistan’s exports of sports products to China showed strong growth in 2025, with rising demand for items such as basketballs, footballs, volleyballs, sports gloves and outdoor game equipment.
According to the latest figures released by China’s General Administration of Customs (GACC), Pakistan exported a total of 1,353,927 units of basketballs, footballs and volleyballs to China during the year. These exports earned around $9.07 million, highlighting China’s growing interest in sports and fitness and the increasing popularity of Pakistani sports goods due to their good quality and affordable prices.
Chinese customs data revealed that most of these exports were shipped to major provinces and cities. Jiangsu province received the highest number, importing 615,562 units worth $3.87 million. This was followed by Shandong province, which imported 470,336 units valued at $3.49 million, while Shanghai Municipality received 152,034 units worth $0.953 million.
Experts say the growing demand for sports equipment is linked to China’s rapid urban development, expansion of sports facilities and increasing public interest in outdoor and recreational activities.
Apart from balls used in popular sports, other Pakistani sports products also performed well. Exports of outdoor sports equipment, including swimming-related items, reached 80,232 units and generated $535,375 in revenue. Sports gloves and mittens designed for different games recorded exports of 16,126 units, earning $949,432. Sports footwear made from rubber, plastic and leather made up a smaller share of total exports.
Pakistani exporters told China Economic Net (CEN) that the increase in exports shows Pakistan’s success in tapping into China’s expanding sports market. Provinces such as Zhejiang, Guangdong and Fujian have emerged as important destinations, where interest in fitness and outdoor sports continues to grow.
Exporters believe that Pakistan’s sports goods industry is benefiting not only from competitive prices but also from better product quality and stronger compliance with international standards. This has helped Pakistan build a positive image as a reliable supplier for Chinese buyers looking for sports products for both professional and recreational use.
Muhammad Ali, a Pakistani sports goods exporter, said that the strong export performance in 2025 was also supported by China’s fast-growing e-commerce sector, which has made trade easier and deliveries quicker. He added that as Pakistan and China continue to strengthen economic ties under initiatives such as the Belt and Road Initiative, the sports goods sector is expected to play a bigger role in bilateral trade.
He further said that the future outlook for Pakistan’s sports exports to China remains positive, with growing demand for sports equipment, fitness products and outdoor gear, giving Pakistan more opportunities to expand its presence in the Chinese market and diversify its exports.
