He noted that Pakistani rice is currently priced higher in the global market, which is creating difficulties for exporters. In the case of non-Basmati rice, he said there is a price difference of about $20 per tonne, making Pakistani rice less competitive internationally. He added that if rice exports are conducted under such G2G frameworks, the use of the EDF may not be required. He said price, reliability and quality remain key considerations for importing countries and stressed the importance of reviving the Pakistan-Indonesia rice cooperation framework through renewed dialogue. He assured that the issues raised, particularly those related to rice cooperation, agricultural market access and trade facilitation, would be conveyed to Jakarta.

Source: The Express Tribune January 21, 2026 04:16 UTC