Zahid Baig

LAHORE: The Rice Exporters Association of Pakistan (REAP) has pledged to capitalize on the improving bilateral relations of Pakistan with Saudi Arabia and Iran to further boost rice exports to these strategically important markets.

“Pakistan exported around 79,000 metric tons of rice to Saudi Arabia in 2023-24, which grew to 110,000 metric tons last year. This year, we are targeting exports of 180,000 metric tons,” said REAP Chairman Faisal Jahangir Malik, while addressing the Annual General Meeting (AGM) of the Association on Tuesday night. He said the REAP had constituted a delegation last December to explore opportunities in the Saudi market and is planning to send another delegation this coming December to fully tap the potential of this key destination.

Referring to Iran, Malik revealed that the Association has also received encouraging unofficial signals from the Iranian government to enhance rice imports from Pakistan. “Currently, our share in Iran’s rice imports stands at around 30 per cent, and we are hopeful of raising it to 70 per cent in the near future,” he noted.

Malik regretted that some sections of the media had exaggerated reports of crop loss, clarifying that damages were slightly over 10 per cent only. He said that over 20 per cent more area had been brought under rice cultivation this year. “With strict control on substandard seeds and agricultural inputs, along with favourable climate conditions, we are confident that higher yields will offset the losses,” he added optimistically.

Highlighting Pakistan’s credibility in international markets, the REAP Chairman said, “Our exporters have emerged as reliable suppliers of rice globally, and the continuously rising export figures are proof of this.” He emphasized that the Association would work in collaboration with provincial agricultural departments to ensure the supply of quality seeds, standard pesticides, and other necessary inputs to produce more surplus for boosting exports.

Faisal also paid glowing tribute to former REAP Chairman Samee Ullah Naeem for playing a vital role in resolving critical issues faced by the rice export sector. He also lauded Guard Agriculture for introducing hybrid rice in the country, which has opened new avenues for higher productivity and greater exports.

Copyright Business Recorder, 2025

Published Date: October 2, 2025