Iran’s President Ebrahim Raisi is visiting Islamabad to repair relations with Pakistan following recent cross-border attacks. Discussions will focus on trade, connectivity, energy, agriculture, and joint projects like the Iran-Pakistan gas pipeline, which aims to address Pakistan’s power crisis. However, the US has warned of sanctions due to its opposition to the pipeline.

The Election Commission of Pakistan conducted by-elections amid violence and disruptions to network services. Temporary cellphone service suspensions were imposed in Punjab and Balochistan to protect the electoral process. Despite challenges, the by-elections proceeded with police intervention resolving political party clashes.

The National Agricultural Cooperative Marketing Federation of India (NAFED) plans to sell rice under the Bharat brand at an affordable price of ₹29/kg in an effort to reduce prices in the open market. The rice will be available in 5-kg and 10-kg packs with both boiled and raw options.

Voting concludes in Maldives parliamentary elections, with results awaited to determine the future of President Muizzu’s policies while being closely monitored by India and China.

Russia has issued a warning to Pakistan over its rice imports, citing phytosanitary issues. The ban threat could hamper Pakistan’s rice industry, underscoring the need for prompt action to address the concerns raised by Russia and adhere to international standards.

Russia has cautioned Pakistan about potential bans on rice imports if phytosanitary concerns are not addressed. Violations of international and Russian phytosanitary requirements were found in a recent shipment of rice from Pakistan. Prompt investigation and adherence to phytosanitary standards are essential to avoid a potential ban and maintain rice exports to Russia.

Vietnamese paddy and rice prices continue to rise, creating opportunities for exporters. This trend can be attributed to factors such as supply and demand dynamics and market conditions. White broken rice is gaining popularity, and partnering with reliable suppliers like HAS Rice can ensure a steady supply for this growing demand.

Russia has warned Pakistan of potential bans on rice imports if concerns regarding phytosanitary issues are not resolved. A recent shipment of rice from Pakistan was found to violate international and Russian sanitary requirements. Adherence to standards is crucial to protect Pakistan’s rice export industry.

The Russia-Ukraine conflict has strained global relations, leading to comparisons with the Cuban Missile Crisis. The US House of Representatives has responded by passing a $95 billion bill to offer security assistance to Ukraine, Israel, and Taiwan. Russia accuses the US of being involved in a hybrid war against Moscow, while the US warns that Ukraine may need further military assistance to win the conflict. The situation remains tense, with the international community closely monitoring the developments.

Russia threatens to restrict rice imports from Pakistan over phytosanitary concerns after finding a quarantine organism in a rice consignment. Non-compliance may result in a ban on rice exports, as Russia has previously imposed bans. Pakistan aims for a significant increase in rice exports, projecting a 36% increase in non-Basmati rice shipments and a 60% increase in Basmati rice exports. Source: Firstpost.