• Pakistan supplies 10% of Saudi rice imports, against India’s 90%
  
• Pakistan aims to boost basmati exports by easing trade barriers
  

Pakistan is seeking to expand its presence in Saudi Arabia’s rice import market through stronger agricultural trade cooperation and the removal of regulatory barriers. Pakistani rice currently accounts for around 10% of Saudi Arabia’s rice imports, while India holds a dominant share of approximately 90%.

Pakistan seeks to expand basmati rice exports

Pakistan and Saudi Arabia have agreed to activate a joint technical mechanism to address trade and regulatory hurdles and strengthen agricultural cooperation. The initiative is expected to facilitate smoother trade flows and create opportunities for Pakistan to increase its agricultural exports to the Saudi market. As part of the discussions, Islamabad highlighted its interest in increasing Basmati rice exports to Saudi Arabia. However, the country faces significant competition from India, which currently dominates Saudi Arabia’s rice import market.

Quality and pricing remain key factors

Saudi Arabia indicated its readiness to purchase larger quantities of Pakistani agricultural products, provided they meet international standards for quality, competitive pricing, supply volumes and packaging. Addressing these requirements will be important for Pakistan to expand its market share and strengthen its position in the Saudi rice trade.

Outlook

Pakistan’s efforts to increase Basmati rice exports could intensify competition in the Saudi market, where India currently holds a significant supply advantage. However, any meaningful shift in market share will depend on Pakistan’s ability to meet Saudi import requirements, maintain price competitiveness and ensure consistent export supplies.

Published Date: November 6, 2026