The Social Networks Supporting Pakistani Traders in Yiwu: A Comprehensive Analysis

Abstract

This study explores the role of social networks in the success of Pakistani traders in Yiwu, China, with a focus on kinship, peer-to-peer, and religious networks. Building on Granovetter’s theory of weak ties and social capital frameworks, it examines how these networks provide emotional, instrumental, and business support in navigating Yiwu’s complex market. The research highlights how social gatherings in halal restaurants, mosques, and online platforms facilitate trust-building, knowledge-sharing, and partnership formation, helping traders mitigate risks and overcome institutional barriers. Drawing from ethnographic fieldwork, including participant observations and interviews with 54 Pakistani traders, this study reveals that both strong kinship ties and weak, newly formed connections are crucial in the traders' operations. The findings contribute to the understanding of how immigrant entrepreneurs use social networks to thrive in foreign markets. This research emphasizes the importance of trust and community-based support in transnational trade, offering valuable insights for policymakers, business scholars, and migrant entrepreneurs.