ISLAMABAD, Feb 13 (APP):Pakistan has stepped up efforts to expand its rice exports to the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries and African markets through improved market access, trade negotiations, exhibitions, and buyer engagement initiatives.
According to official documents available with Wealth Pakistan, Pakistan already enjoys zero import duty on rice exports to the GCC region, providing a strong competitive advantage for exporters.
Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates have emerged as two of the largest markets for Pakistani rice. However, price competitiveness remains a key challenge. Authorities are working actively to improve Pakistan’s export share in these markets.
To strengthen trade ties, Pakistan has facilitated delegations of the Rice Exporters Association of Pakistan (REAP) to Saudi Arabia, the document noted.
Pakistani companies are also maintaining a strong presence at international trade events. At Gulfood Expo 2026 in Dubai, rice exporters are participating actively to promote and showcase Pakistani rice products to global buyers.
In Africa, Pakistan is pursuing multiple trade and promotional initiatives to open new opportunities for rice exporters.
The government is negotiating a Preferential Trade Agreement (PTA) with Mozambique, with the draft text under finalization. Rice is expected to receive priority for improved market access during tariff negotiations.
Similarly, institutional arrangements are underway to initiate Free Trade Agreement (FTA) negotiations with the East African Community (EAC), where rice has been identified among the leading products for tariff reductions.
The Trade Development Authority of Pakistan (TDAP) has also intensified on-ground marketing efforts. In August 2025, TDAP organized the first-ever Pakistan Rice Road Shows across West Africa, including Ghana, Côte d’Ivoire, and Senegal. These events helped promote Pakistani rice, engage local importers, and facilitate business-to-business meetings to build long-term trade partnerships.
In Kenya, coordinated engagement with the government has improved pricing competitiveness. Customs valuation for Pakistani rice was revised from FOB $615 per metric ton to FOB $460 per metric ton, making exports more attractive in the Kenyan market.
Under the government’s ‘Look Africa Policy,’ five flagship Single Country Exhibitions have been organized across different African regions. Rice exporters received prominent representation at these events, including the most recent exhibition held in Ethiopia in 2025.
Participation of African buyers has also been facilitated in all three editions of TDAP’s International Food and Agro Exhibition (FoodAG), further strengthening direct trade connections, the document concluded.