Pakistan’s rice exports reached an all-time high of 6.4 million tons in 2024, driven by increased production and robust global demand. Official data shows that the country’s rice production stood at 9.8 million tons last year, creating a significant exportable surplus. For the fourth consecutive year, Pakistan has maintained its position as the world’s fourth-largest rice exporter, following India, Thailand, and Vietnam.

However, challenges are on the horizon for 2025. Production is forecast to decline to 9.4 million tons, leaving a shortfall of approximately 400,000 tons. Additionally, global rice prices have dropped significantly, falling by $200 per ton from $648 in 2024 to $448 per ton currently. This price decline could impact export revenues in the coming year.

Despite these challenges, Pakistan’s rice exports are expected to remain competitive due to its strong market share and growing demand from emerging markets. New buyers such as Africa, Indonesia, and the Philippines have contributed to the country’s export growth, while Bangladesh has also emerged as a key market for Pakistani rice.

Industry experts attribute Pakistan’s competitiveness to the government’s non-interventionist policy in the rice market. Unlike India, which subsidizes its farmers by up to 40%, Pakistan does not provide subsidies, making its rice exports more attractive to global buyers. Indian subsidies, experts say, distort the market and reduce the competitiveness of Indian rice on the international stage.

Pakistan’s rice exporters are also benefiting from improved logistics and transportation infrastructure. A new shipping route to Bangladesh, launched in partnership with DP World UAE, has significantly reduced transportation times from 27 days to just 11 days, further enhancing the efficiency of exports.