Nine Pakistani companies from various sectors showcased their products at the 2024 SIAL exhibition in Shanghai, China. With a focus on quality and variety, the companies aimed to capture the attention of buyers and expand their presence in the Chinese market.

Nine prestigious Pakistani companies showcased their products at SIAL Shanghai, one of the world’s leading food and beverage exhibitions. They attracted buyers from over 75 countries, emphasizing Pakistan’s rich agricultural heritage and growing capabilities in the food industry.

Nine Pakistani companies specializing in logistics, rice mills, frozen meals, and various food products showcased their offerings at the 2024 SIAL Shanghai exhibition. The event served as a platform for Pakistani food exporters to highlight their rich agricultural heritage and growing capabilities in the industry, aiming to capture the attention of global buyers.

Researchers in Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, China, have successfully grown rice in desert greenhouses, reducing the growth cycle by nearly half. The energy-efficient and cost-effective methods used in these greenhouses hold the potential for annual crop production and speed breeding in the region.

Inflation rises as essential goods prices increase by 0.11%, bringing the annual inflation rate to 21.40%. Prices of tomatoes, onions, dal mash, and other essential items have increased, while some items like eggs and LPG cylinders have become cheaper. Stable prices of mutton, ghee, and cooking oil provide reassurance to consumers. Onions are now 82% more expensive compared to last year, and red pepper prices have increased by 60%. Stay informed to make informed purchasing decisions.

The Pakistan Bureau of Statistics (PBS) has reported a 0.11% increase in Sensitive Price Index-based inflation, breaking a six-week decline. Tomatoes, onions, and pulse mash were among items that saw price increases, while eggs and LPG decreased. Overall, the data highlights fluctuations in essential goods prices, emphasizing the need for consumers and businesses to stay informed.

Pakistan’s rice export has reached a historic $3.5 billion in the current fiscal year, showcasing the country’s growing prominence in the global rice market. This surge in export can be attributed to a record yield after floods and a 40% growth compared to the previous year.

Rice prices in Thailand and Vietnam have slightly decreased due to lower demand and increased supplies, while Indian rates remain steady with strong demand from Africa. The rice market in Asia is experiencing different trends, with Vietnam and Thailand seeing slight price drops, India maintaining steady rates, and Bangladesh facing high prices despite favorable conditions.

The United Nations Industrial Development Organization (UNIDO) and the European Union (EU) successfully concluded the PAIDAR program’s Business Grants Orientation event in Karachi. The event aimed to support SMEs and entrepreneurs, attracting 77 applicants from various sectors. TA companies will collaborate with participants to develop strong business proposals in sectors such as solar products, automotive industry, waste management, and more. The program’s commitment to gender inclusivity was highlighted with strong participation from women-led businesses.

The proposed reduction of rice tariffs in the Philippines raises concerns for farmers, as it could result in a loss of P33 billion and a lack of P10 billion funding for productivity programs, while not necessarily guaranteeing lower retail prices and potentially depressing palay prices. The Federation of Free Farmers suggests alternative methods to lower prices without harming local farmers.