Rice Grain: A Pillar of Economic Growth and Expanding Global Trade

The export of rice grain to China has implemented new protocols, enhanced the crop’s resilience with technology, and improved infrastructure. It includes signing of agreements and MoUs, registration of trade companies, and increasing exports through the CPEC (China-Pakistan Economic Corridor). Specific actions are taken on quick farming, fertilization & seed development, and export of products.

Export Agreements

  • Joint Trade Group is created on the agriculture CPEC framework to improve collaboration.
  • Recent MoUs worth USD 4 billion focus on development, quick farming techniques, and mechanization
  • 9 new protocols are signed, and we want to increase the export of agricultural items to China.
  • More than six hundred companies are registered with GACC. General Administration of Customs of China), the majority are rice grain exporters.
  • All equipment and agricultural machinery is imported from China to Pakistan-supports the modernization struggle.
  • Both countries are working to improve rice grain export.

A Key Contributor to the National Economy and Global Trade

Rice grain is an important part of our industry and contributes to the economy and major source of earning- 10th rank for rice. Rice is 2nd most important staple and is exported for USD 4 billion. More than 8% global rice trade volume, as China is now a promising destination or place for Pakistan like other countries.

Saremco Agri Commodity is exporting rice grain to strengthen the economy of Pakistan with High-quality production (from Punjab). We work with local farmers and contribute to research and development of rice varieties and face challenges with problems including cost, shipping and logistics. Rice’s crop is cultivated in Pakistan due to its fertile soil, and perfect climate for growth or rice grain like ‘kalar’ is located between Chenab and Ravi rivers- known for basmati production.

Pakistan’s Rice Export Network and Industry Development Efforts

Rice is exported to multiple destinations like the USA, Africa, the Middle East, and many other countries. In Pakistan rice industry depends on millions of farmers in Sindh, Punjab, and Baluchistani. Exporters perform their role and provide resources to export cargo (high-quality rice). Also, the industry is focused on improving rice crop, shorter maturity period, and plant height.

 

Developing new rice grain varieties

Yes, the modern molecular breeding approach is used to develop new rice grain varieties that are tolerant to stresses like bacterial blight & drought.

Marker-assisted selection (MAS)

MAS is a molecular breeding technique that uses DNA markers to choose plants that have genes for the required output, like stress resistance or disease.  Experts can check physical traits through DNA markers if it is present for physically. Efficiency or throughput is increased with rapid and precise selection.

Challenges and opportunities

  • Logistics and Infrastructure
  • Value Addition
  • Global Market
  • Climate Change

Significant Growth in Pakistan’s Rice Exports to China in 2025

In 2025, 70% rice export increased in 8 months as compared to last year-2024. Pakistan has all export arrangements and sources of import with solid strategies to meet the international market’s standards. The coordination between the 2 countries is important.

  • Significant growth:
  • Increased export value:
  • Top performing varieties: