Martin Raiser, SARVP of the World Bank, met with Pakistan’s Finance Minister Muhammad Aurangzeb to discuss the country’s macro-economic situation and reform priorities. The World Bank expressed willingness to provide financial and technical assistance, aligning their support with Pakistan’s reform areas, including energy sector, exports, and social protection.

The Asian rice market faces uncertainty as top exporters gear up for a potential tender from Bulog, Indonesia’s state purchasing agency. India’s export restrictions have caused a significant tightening of global supplies, leading to expectations of a surge in rice prices at the upcoming Bulog tender in May.

As India’s export restrictions tighten global rice supplies, Asian rice exporters eagerly await a potential tender from Indonesia’s Bulog. Prices are expected to rise, providing market stability amidst stagnant demand. The El Nino weather pattern further exacerbates the shortage, leading to reduced import quotas.

Top Asian rice exporters are bracing for a tender from Bulog, the Indonesian state purchasing agency, in May. Vietnam, Thailand, Myanmar, and Pakistan have supplied the agency this year, but reduced yields due to El Nino have caused a slight drop in the import quota for 2024.

Vietnam’s rice prices surge in the global market, surpassing Thailand and Pakistan. With their 5% broken rice priced at $585 per ton, Vietnam’s rice industry expects further growth in exports and aims to meet rising international demand. Experts predict that Vietnam’s rice output will reach 43 million tons by 2024, solidifying their position as a top global rice supplier. Source: https://thesun.my

Utility stores in Pakistan are maintaining their prices for essential items, including flour, despite a decline in market rates. This has raised concerns among consumers who expected affordable prices, especially as headline inflation is at its lowest level in two years. It is crucial for utility stores to reassess their pricing strategy and align it with market rates for the benefit of the general public.

Vietnam’s rice industry is thriving as global prices rise. With a significant increase in export performance and a projected output of 43 million tons by 2024, Vietnam is reclaiming its position as a leading exporter of rice. The country’s rice exporters are capitalizing on these favorable conditions to expand their business and enhance their competitive edge.

Saudi Arabia expresses keen interest in Pakistan as a high-priority economic and investment opportunity at the Pakistan-Saudi Arabia Investment Conference in Islamabad. The minister emphasizes the strong bond between the two countries and the vast investment opportunities available in Pakistan to strengthen the partnership. (Source: Tribune)

Saudi Deputy Investment Minister Ibrahim Almubarak highlights Pakistan’s economic potential, demography, location, and natural resources, emphasizing the strong partnership between the two countries. The conference aims to deepen understanding of investment opportunities and strengthen the partnership between public and private sectors. Source: Radio Pakistan.

The Pakistan-Saudi Investment Forum 2024 highlights strong economic ties and investment opportunities. Pakistan is declared the “most suitable country” for investment by the Saudi Deputy Investment Minister. Both countries aim to promote bilateral trade and investment for growth and prosperity.