Pakistan’s rice exports declined in the first half of the current fiscal year as international rice prices dropped by nearly 50 percent, the National Assembly Standing Committee on Commerce was informed on Monday.
Officials told the committee that increased global rice production and India’s return to the export market after restrictions in 2023–24 led to a sharp fall in prices worldwide. India’s re-entry created a price difference of around 20 dollars per ton between Pakistani and Indian rice, affecting Pakistan’s competitiveness in key markets.
The committee was informed that Pakistan is currently holding rice stocks worth about 2 billion dollars. Large quantities were reportedly purchased by stockists, including investors from the real estate sector. Officials also revealed that Pakistani basmati rice was being sold in Iran under the label of “basmati bread,” raising concerns about branding and market practices.
During the meeting, members questioned the release of 15 billion rupees to rice exporters from the Export Development Fund and asked for details about the approval process. In response, officials said the financial support was provided to help the rice sector cope with falling prices and reduced exports.
They added that, unlike the textile industry, which has received government support in the past, the rice sector had not previously benefited from similar relief measures. The assistance was therefore aimed at stabilizing exporters during a period of global price pressure and market challenges.
