Islamabad, 1 May, 2025: Rice exporters concerns have taken centre stage in recent discussions between Pakistan’s business leaders and the federal government, as efforts intensify to boost foreign earnings through enhanced agricultural exports.
Finance Minister Senator Muhammad Aurangzeb, during a meeting held at the Federation House on Wednesday, assured stakeholders from the rice industry that their pressing challenges would be addressed to support the country’s economic goals.
The discussion was led by Rafiq Suleman, former Chairman of the Rice Exporters Association of Pakistan (REAP) and current Convener of the FPCCI Standing Committee on Rice.
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Suleman highlighted that Pakistan’s rice exports have seen year-on-year growth, but argued that excessive taxation continues to limit the sector’s full export potential.
He emphasized that reducing the fiscal burden on exporters could lead to a sharp increase in overseas shipments, thereby contributing significantly to the national foreign exchange reserves.
Addressing a long-standing grievance, Suleman urged the inclusion of rice exporters among the beneficiaries of government incentive programmes privileges already extended to five other major export sectors.
Given rice’s significant share in national exports, he said, the sector deserves similar recognition and support from policy-makers.
Suleman also presented a vision for enhancing productivity through modern techniques. He recommended that provincial governments be directed to promote mechanical farming methods, which he claimed could increase yields by up to 60 percent.
Higher yields, in turn, would enhance food security and strengthen Pakistan’s competitive edge in global rice markets.
He further called for the removal of duties on essential agricultural equipment, such as dryers and temperature-controlled silos.
According to him, easing import taxes on these machines would improve post-harvest storage, reduce spoilage, and allow Pakistan to consistently supply premium-grade rice to international buyers.
Recalling an earlier commitment made by the Finance Minister to visit REAP headquarters, Suleman reiterated the industry’s hope for constructive engagement and follow-through on promises.
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In response, Senator Aurangzeb reaffirmed his intention to meet with rice exporters in the near future.
The Finance Minister acknowledged the sector’s value, noting that rice is one of the country’s top foreign revenue sources.
He assured participants that their proposals would be carefully reviewed and that rice exporters’ concerns would be addressed as a priority in future policy planning.
