ISLAMABAD, May 18 (ABC): Pakistan is expanding efforts to diversify rice exports toward Africa, Central Asia, and Far East markets. The move forms part of a broader strategy to maintain uninterrupted trade flows and reduce dependence on traditional export destinations amid regional trade disruptions.
According to an official document available with Wealth Pakistan, disruptions in major shipping routes have caused delays, vessel rerouting, and higher freight and insurance costs. Rising fuel and logistics expenses have also increased export costs and affected timely deliveries.
The document noted that these disruptions may cause short-term declines in exports to some Middle Eastern markets. At the same time, they may create fluctuations in global rice prices and trade patterns.
Authorities strengthen alternative trade routes
To address these challenges, authorities are strengthening alternative land and maritime trade routes. They are also improving traceability systems, increasing exporter capacity, and introducing digital platforms such as Phyto to simplify export procedures.
The Department of Plant Protection (DPP) is also working to ensure smooth exports through efficient phytosanitary certification and strict compliance with Sanitary and Phytosanitary (SPS) requirements. These measures aim to prevent shipment delays and improve market access.
According to the document, DPP has strengthened export facilitation by integrating certification procedures with the Pakistan Single Window (PSW). The system now allows exporters to submit applications and obtain certificates online.
More than 85% of certificates are now issued within 24 hours. The faster process helps improve efficiency and reduce delays.
Measures support regional trade expansion
To facilitate regional trade, the Ministry of Commerce has granted a temporary exemption from the Financial Instrument requirement for exports to Iran and Central Asian Republics through the Iran land route.
The exemption covers important commodities, including rice. Authorities introduced the measure to ease procedural requirements and encourage the use of alternative trade corridors.
Pakistan exports rice to more than 150 countries and remains one of the world’s major rice producers and exporters. The country produces around 9–10 million metric tons (MMT) of rice annually. It also maintains an exportable surplus ranging from 4.5 to 5.5 MMT.
Pakistan’s rice exports remained relatively stable. Exports declined slightly from 4.38 MMT in 2024 to 4.32 MMT in 2025.
Export trends show changing market patterns
While exports to traditional markets such as Malaysia, Indonesia, Belgium, and Benin declined, shipments to the UAE increased. The trend reflects changing market dynamics and diversification efforts.
During January-April 2026, rice exports stood at around 1.49 MMT. Exports to Afghanistan dropped to zero due to border closures. However, the UAE and China remained among the stronger markets.
At the same time, exports to African destinations such as Ivory Coast recorded growth. The increase highlights Pakistan’s gradual expansion into new markets.
The document noted that traditional Middle Eastern markets have largely remained stable. However, exports to African and other non-traditional destinations have increased, reflecting broader efforts to diversify market exposure.
Quality measures improve export compliance
In the European Union, stricter SPS requirements have strengthened quality compliance while keeping export volumes relatively controlled. The trend shows a gradual shift toward quality-focused exports in premium markets.
To address food safety concerns, especially maximum residue limits (MRLs) and aflatoxin contamination, DPP has introduced several corrective measures in coordination with the Ministry of Commerce and provincial governments.
These measures include a ban on 14 hazardous pesticides used in rice crops. Authorities have also introduced stricter inspections, mandatory laboratory testing, and blacklisting of exporters involved in fraudulent reporting practices.
The document noted that authorities have promoted Good Agricultural Practices (GAP), moisture-control measures, and stronger coordination with internationally recognized inspection agencies such as SGS and Eurofins.
As a result, compliance levels have improved significantly. EU interceptions declined from 77 cases in 2024 to 38 cases in 2025. The number further dropped to only five cases up to April 2026.
