ISLA MABAD: Consul General of Pakistan in Shanghai, Hussain Haider, stated that the popularity of Pakistani Himalayan pink salt products, such as salt lamps and bath salts, has been growing in China in recent years.
Haider addressed a webinar on the promotion of Pakistani pink salt, jointly organized by the Consulate General of Pakistan in Shanghai and the Trade Development Authority of Pakistan. He emphasized that Pakistan can expand its export of salt products to China by enhancing marketing and packaging strategies.
According to the General Administration of Customs of China, Pakistani Himalayan pink salt exports to China reached $4,968,223 in 2021 and $5,747,492 in 2022, showing a year-on-year increase of 15.68%. This indicates the market’s gradual expansion and promising prospects for pink salt exports to China.
The growth in Pakistani salt exports is attributed to factors like increases awareness among Chinese consumers about the health benefits of pink salt. Successful marketing campaigns, and strong trade partnerships between Pakistani exporters and Chinese importers.
However, the rise in exports has not only boosted the Pakistani salt industry. But also provided an economic boost to the country. Creating new jobs in the mining and processing sectors and contributing to overall economic growth.
However, during the webinar, Ismail Suttar, chairman of the Salt Manufacturers Association of Pakistan (SMAP). And president of the Employers Federation of Pakistan highlights that the government, in collaboration with industry stakeholders, is actively exploring ways to expand production capacity. And improve infrastructure to ensure the sustainability of the salt industry. And meet the rising demand from China and other international markets.
Additionally, Wang Zihai, Pakistan’s Honorary Investment Counsellor in China, mentioned at the webinar. That pink salt lamps, a major product of Pakistan’s pink salt export to China, act as air purifiers and are popular among Chinese consumers as decoration and night lights.
However, in the first half of this year, Pakistani Himalayan pink salt exports to China reached $2,694,493. Showing a slight decrease of 5% compared to the same period last year. To address this decline, around 30 companies from China and Pakistan shared their views. At the webinar to promote Pakistani pink salt exports to China.
However, they agreed that Pakistani salt exporters should ensure the quality. And authenticity of their products to cater to the Chinese market. Implementing extensive quality control measures is essential to maintain the high standards expected by Chinese consumers.
Additionally, efforts should be made to promote the unique characteristics of pink salt through various marketing channels. Including social media platforms and trade shows
