Pakistan targets GCC and African markets to expand rice exports

Pakistan is stepping up efforts to increase rice exports to Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries and Africa through trade negotiations, improved market access, and targeted promotional activities.

Officials said Pakistan already benefits from zero import duties on rice in GCC markets, giving exporters a strong advantage. Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates are the largest destinations for Pakistani rice, though price competitiveness remains a challenge. To address this, the Rice Exporters Association of Pakistan (REAP) has conducted trade delegations to Saudi Arabia, while companies actively participated in the Gulfood Expo 2026 in Dubai to engage international buyers.

In Africa, Pakistan is negotiating a Preferential Trade Agreement (PTA) with Mozambique, prioritizing rice for tariff concessions. Talks are also underway for a Free Trade Agreement (FTA) with the East African Community (EAC), where rice has been identified among leading products for tariff reduction.

The Trade Development Authority of Pakistan (TDAP) has intensified on-ground initiatives, including the first Pakistan Rice Road Shows in August 2025 across Ghana, Côte d’Ivoire, and Senegal. These events facilitated business-to-business meetings and strengthened trade links. In Kenya, government coordination led to a revised customs valuation, lowering the FOB price for Pakistani rice from $615 to $460 per metric ton, improving market competitiveness.

Under the ‘Look Africa Policy,’ Pakistan organized five Single Country Exhibitions across African regions, with rice exporters prominently represented. African buyers were also invited to all three editions of TDAP’s International Food and Agro Exhibition (FoodAG), enhancing direct engagement and trade opportunities.

Officials highlighted that these combined initiatives aim to increase Pakistan’s rice market share, strengthen long-term trade partnerships, and support export growth in key international markets.