Global Rice News

Russia Warns Pakistan of Potential Rice Import Ban

Russia has issued a warning to Pakistan, stating that a ban on rice imports may be implemented if concerns regarding phytosanitary standards persist, according to a report by PTI. This caution comes after the discovery of a quarantine organism, “Megaselia scalaris (Loew),” in a recent shipment of rice from Pakistan. The notification from Russia’s Federal Service for Veterinary and Phytosanitary Surveillance (FSVPS) dated April 2, highlights the need for immediate action.

In response, Pakistan’s trade representative in Russia has been instructed to carry out an investigation into the matter. Russian authorities have also requested that the Pakistan embassy take necessary measures to prevent such violations and ensure that all rice exporters adhere to phytosanitary regulations to ensure the safety of agricultural products traded between the two countries.

This warning is significant as Russia had previously banned rice imports from Pakistan in 2019 due to health safety concerns. Similar actions were taken in December 2006 when imports were halted due to failure to meet food safety standards.

Chela Ram Kewlani, Chairman of the Pakistan Rice Exporters Association, has stressed the importance of careful selection and packaging by Pakistani rice exporters. He highlighted the advantageous position of Pakistan in the global rice market following India’s ban on non-Basmati rice exports last year.

Despite the challenges, Pakistani rice exports have experienced significant growth, with approximately 700,000 tonnes exported in December 2023 alone. This reflects increased production, demand, and global prices. The Rice Export Corporation expects a notable increase in Basmati and non-Basmati rice exports, targeting over five million metric tonnes in the fiscal year 2022-2024, surpassing the previous year’s exports of 3.7 million tonnes.

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