Rice exports from Pakistan have seen sizeable growth of overall 27% at the end of February, 2018. This statement was given by Mr. Rafique Suleman, Senior Vice Chairman Rice Exporters Association of Pakistan, while talking with news reporters.
He shared the figures of rice exports during the period of July to February 2018. He said that at the end of February 2018, rice exports for fiscal year 2017-18 (July to Feb 2018) a significant growth has been observed as compared to Last fiscal year 2016-17 (July to Feb 2017).
He said that this year we exported Total 2.59 Million Metric Tons of rice amounting to US$. 1.224 Billion, whereas last fiscal year in the same period we had exported 2.27 Million Metric Tons of rice amounting to US$.961 Million, which shows over all a significant growth of 27% in terms values and 14% in terms of quantity.
He expressed his pleasure to inform the media persons that by the grace of Almighty Allah, we have come out of the crisis which we have been observing since last three years. Further with the coordination of REAP Office Bearers with Trade Development Authority of Pakistan and Customs, value of rice export trade is showing improvement which is a good sign for our country. Further, REAP members are putting their untiring efforts and aggressive marketing to increase the rice exports and to earn valueable foreign exchange for our beloved country Pakistan.
He informed that last month REAP had organized International Buyers Recognition Awards in Dubai and as a result we are observing that rice exports to UAE showing good growth. In 8 months of current fiscal year, we have exported more than 100,000 Metric tons of rice amounting to US$ 67 Million. Kenya is the largest buyer of Pakistani Non Basmati rice and during eight months of this fiscal year (July to Feb 2018) we have exported 323,000 Metric Tons of rice amounting to US$ 118 Million. He also said that China is the 2nd largest destination for Pakistani Non Basmati rice. As at the end of February 2018, we have exported 233,000 Metric tons of rice valueing US$ 83 Million. He expressed his gratitude to authorities of Ministry of Commerce, Government of Pakistan for obtaining more benefits for Pakistani rice in the recent negotiations during 2nd round of Pakistan China Free Trade Agreement which will result into substantial growth in rice exports to China.
He briefed that right now international demand for rice has been increased around the globe. He was happy to inform that this year we had a very good crop in terms of quality and quantity. Further, prices of Pakistani rice are comparatively cheaper than our competitors, Thailand, Vietnam etc. which is also in our favour.
He added that Pakistani rice exporters are putting their extra ordinary efforts for fetching valueable foreign exchange for the growth of economy of our beloved country and making huge investment for installing world’s latest rice machinery and most modern technology for value addition in rice.
