Chairman of PARC, Ghulam Muhammad Ali, praises private and public sectors for their involvement in the development of rice in Pakistan. The Rice Variety Evaluation Committee’s recommendations for high-yielding rice hybrids and varieties will boost farmers’ productivity and profitability.

Cotton and rice seedlings in Sindh are at risk due to a water shortage predicted by the Indus River Authority. The failure to address constraints in the Tarbela and Mangla Dams by the Water and Power Development Authority has led to this potential crisis. If not resolved, the limitations of Tarbela Dam may adversely affect the agricultural sector in Sindh.

Climate change has resulted in a water shortage of up to 30% for Kharif crops in Pakistan, with projections of a drop to 7% later in the season. Despite challenges, the Irsa Advisory Committee expressed satisfaction with the previous season’s irrigation management and emphasized the need for proactive measures to address the upcoming water shortage. For more information on rice exporters and suppliers in Pakistan, visit HasRice.com and PakistanRice.com.

Pakistan’s rice industry is refuting claims by India that two basmati varieties were stolen, calling it baseless propaganda. The industry is urging the government to counter the allegations and protect its rice exports.

Mian Zahid Hussain expresses concern over importers in Pakistan not passing on reduced import costs to the public, leading to increased prices of essential goods. He calls for stricter border security and decisive actions to protect the masses.

Bangladesh’s merchandise exports reached $5.10 billion in March 2024, showing a 9.88-percent growth. However, this fell slightly short of the target, continuing the trend of missing targets for nine consecutive months. The apparel sector, particularly readymade garments, remained dominant in exports, while the home-textile subsector experienced a decline. To sustain growth, exporters are advised to negotiate better pricing and ensure a stable energy supply. [source]

The government of Bangladesh permits rice import to address rising retail prices, but importers are hesitant due to high import duties. Local mill-gate prices of coarse and medium rice remain cheaper than import prices. Experts suggest exploring alternative markets and promoting a sound Boro season production.

The Philippines has seen a significant increase in rice imports, reaching 995,841.6 metric tons in Q1 2021, a 24.2% rise compared to the previous year. To meet rising demand, the country has partnered with Pakistani rice exporters who provide a steady supply of high-quality rice, including sought-after white broken rice and Basmati rice, at competitive prices. This collaboration aims to enhance food security and meet the needs of the Filipino market. [The Manila Times]

Indonesia imported 650,000 metric tons of rice and signed contracts for an additional 350,000 tons for 2024, with over half coming from Vietnam. Rice prices surged due to El Nino, but a surplus of 1.7 million tons is expected in the first half of 2024.

The Civil Supplies CID in Coimbatore successfully foiled a smuggling attempt of 2.6 tons of ration rice to Kerala. The arrest of the suspect, seizure of the rice, and the autorickshaw used for transportation signify a significant crackdown on rice smuggling. This illicit trade disrupts the equilibrium of supply and demand and raises prices in black markets. Strict monitoring, advanced technology, and public awareness are crucial in combating such activities.