In response to trade restrictions imposed by the European Union (EU) on Pakistani rice imports, the government has decided to establish the National Food Security, Animal, and Plant Health Regulatory Authority. The move aims to address quality concerns raised by the EU and improve the standards of Pakistani agricultural products to regain and sustain access to international markets.

The decision comes after a challenging year in 2024, during which 72 shipments of Pakistani rice were rejected by European countries due to substandard quality. Federal Minister for Food Security Rana Tanveer warned that if these issues persist, the EU could impose a complete ban on Pakistani rice imports. This situation is reminiscent of a similar incident in the past when Russia restricted rice imports from Pakistan over quality concerns.

Pakistan’s current regulatory framework has struggled to meet the demands of evolving global standards. An inquiry into the matter recommended the creation of an independent authority capable of aligning with international benchmarks to address these challenges effectively.

The new National Food Security, Animal, and Plant Health Regulatory Authority will serve as a modernized institution to oversee agricultural exports and ensure compliance with global standards. It is expected to play a critical role in enhancing quality control throughout the supply chain, restoring confidence in Pakistani products, and facilitating better access to international markets, including the EU, which remains a key destination for Pakistani rice.