By Associated Press of Pakistan.

The Standing Committee on Commerce Tuesday called for enhanced administrative oversight by the Department of Plant Protection to prevent recurring disruptions in Pakistan’s rice exports, a vital sector of the country’s agricultural economy.

According to press release issued by National Assembly Secretariat, the meeting was chaired by Muhammad Jawed Hanif Khan.

The committee reviewed the progress of crucial legislative measures and examined pressing trade-related issues aimed at strengthening Pakistan’s commercial landscape. Among the primary concerns discussed was the issue of delays and disruptions that have hampered rice exports in recent months.

Members of the committee stressed the need for immediate and effective action, urging the Department of Plant Protection to improve its procedures, particularly in the inspection and clearance of export containers.

Lawmakers emphasized that inefficiencies in these processes were not only causing logistical delays but also threatening the country’s credibility in international markets.

Responding to the concerns, officials assured the committee that corrective measures were already underway. They reiterated the department’s commitment to reducing, and eventually eliminating, procedural bottlenecks to ensure smooth and uninterrupted rice exports in the future.

The committee underscored that resolving this issue was critical to maintaining Pakistan’s standing as a reliable exporter and safeguarding the livelihoods of thousands of farmers and exporters who depend on the rice trade.

The committee while discussing the Suspension of SRO 760, the Chair emphasized that the suspension was a decision of the Federal Cabinet, and only it could reinstate it. However, interim relief for pipeline issues remained a priority, and the Ministry had already made necessary requests for such relief.

On discussions regarding granting special relief/rebate by the government to food exporting companies, it was noted that this incremental tax rebate would assist generating additional revenue for the country. The committee decided to forward the matter to the Federal Board of Revenue for further deliberation.

The committee reviewed “The Export Development Fund (Amendment) Bill, 2025”, and “The Trade Development Authority of Pakistan (Amendment) Bill, 2025”, in depth and decided to constitute a sub-committee for detailed deliberation on the bills after the expiration of the previous Sub-Committee therefore, pending the bills till then.

The committee decided to hold a detailed briefing on the Pakistan National Tariff Policy in the next meeting.

It was stressed that tax liberalization should not be extended to finished goods and luxury items, ensuring that the focus remained on sectors that aligned with national economic priorities.

The proposal for liberalizing raw materials and machinery imports to support industrial growth and to enhance productivity was also discussed in the meeting, the press release added.

Published Date: June 4, 2025