The Punjab government is launching a unique initiative for Ramadan, providing essential Ramadan hampers to 65,000-70,000 families enrolled in the Benazir Income Support Program. These hampers, worth Rs 3,630, will contain flour, sugar, basin, rice, and ghee, addressing basic household needs and enhancing dietary options. Delivery logistics and transparent pricing have been arranged to ensure the smooth distribution of these packages. This initiative demonstrates the government’s commitment to supporting its citizens during Ramadan.

The Thai Ambassador to the WTO will be replaced after controversial remarks criticizing India’s rice procurement program. India expressed disappointment and lodged a formal protest. India clarified that the Ambassador’s facts were incorrect, and the ban on rice exports highlights its focus on stabilizing the domestic market.

Pakistan’s economic challenges and positive macroeconomic indicators are in focus as the new government prepares to take over. While there have been improvements in fiscal consolidation and foreign exchange buffers, complexities and uncertainties remain, including energy price adjustments, inflation control, and export concerns. Addressing issues such as high energy tariffs and debt management, and maintaining good relations with both the Western world and China, will be crucial. The government will also need to address societal issues, particularly religious extremism, to achieve economic goals. Source: https://www.thenews.com.pk

India is expected to see a decline in rice production in 2023-24, the first in eight years, while wheat production is predicted to increase slightly. This decrease in rice production might lead to extended export restrictions, impacting global prices and availability of rice in other major exporting nations. Source: Reuters

The WTO conference in Abu Dhabi intensifies as rice becomes a major point of contention, potentially sparking a trade war as India and Thailand clash over subsidies. India also objects to investment being included in the discussions, adding to the growing tensions.

International investors show keen interest in investing in Pakistan’s DHA, the top real estate developer, at the IPS 2024 event. Kiran Malik shares positive response from people and the signing of MoUs, projecting Pakistan’s real estate market to reach $2.11 trillion by 2024. Promising opportunity for investors.

Pakistan’s rice export industry is thriving, thanks to its high-quality rice varieties, competitive pricing, and government support. Major buyers include Saudi Arabia, UAE, Iran, and Afghanistan. With increasing demand, the industry is expected to continue its upward trajectory. Discover more at reputable rice suppliers’ websites like HAS Rice and Pakistan Rice.

Former president Asif Ali Zardari is expected to secure the top position in Pakistan’s upcoming presidential election on 9 March. Candidates can submit nomination papers by Saturday before noon, with the retirement date set for 6 March. Asif Ali Zardari has been nominated by the ruling alliance, while Omer Ayub Khan is the pick of Imran Khan’s party.

Indonesia’s rice production is projected to decrease by 17.52% in early 2024 due to dry weather conditions. As a result, retail prices have increased, leading to higher inflation. To meet the anticipated higher demand, the country is increasing rice imports by an additional 1.6 million tons.

India is anticipating a dip in rice production due to below-average rainfall. This has led to a surge in global rice prices, with concerns about potential measures by the government to control food prices. Pakistani rice companies, like HAS Rice Pakistan, are working diligently to meet the increasing demand and ensure a steady supply of high-quality rice to international buyers.