Pakistan has decided to halt the domestic rice fumigation with methyl bromide, shifting the responsibility to importing countries in line with global trade standards. The move aims to reduce export disruptions, particularly in European markets, and enhance the competitiveness of Pakistani rice.
The decision was taken during a high-level meeting chaired by Federal Secretary Waseem Ajmal Chaudhry. Authorities expect that eliminating in-country fumigation will lower export costs and improve market access. Additionally, the government plans to introduce stricter scientific monitoring of import conditions within two weeks to prevent further trade barriers.
The Ministry of National Food Security & Research has also pledged to dismantle corruption networks within the agricultural trade, including what it calls the ‘spray mafia,’ which has been accused of exploiting exporters. These reforms respond to long-standing demands from the Rice Exporters Association, aiming to boost Pakistan’s credibility as a reliable rice supplier.
Rice exports remain a vital source of foreign exchange for Pakistan, particularly its highly sought-after Basmati variety, which enjoys strong demand in the EU and other international markets. In the 2023-24 fiscal year, total rice exports amounted to $3.93 billion, with Basmati contributing $877 million. However, in the first seven months of the current fiscal year (July–January), total rice exports declined to $2.194 billion, with Basmati’s share dropping to $511.6 million.
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