Global Rice News

**Rice: A Vital Staple Food in Pakistan’s Agricultural Landscape**

In a recent PhD seminar held at Sindh Agriculture University (SAU), Dr. Fateh Marri, the Vice Chancellor, highlighted the pivotal role of rice as a crucial staple food in the global agricultural landscape. Rice, being the second-largest crop after wheat, plays a significant role in feeding the world population.

Pakistan’s Contribution to the World Rice Trade

Dr. Marri emphasized Pakistan’s substantial contribution to the world’s rice trade, accounting for approximately 9.10% of the total trade. This contribution amounts to nearly $30 billion annually as of 2023. This demonstrates the country’s importance as a major player in the rice market.

Promising Research on Hybrid Rice Seeds

Dr. Marri also discussed the ongoing research on hybrid rice seeds in Pakistan. While the country currently imports hybrid rice seeds from countries like China, the development of over ten hybrid rice varieties within the country shows promising potential for enhanced productivity in rice cultivation. This research is a collaborative effort between private and governmental institutions.

Challenges in Rice Production

During the seminar, Dr. Reema Vistro, a dedicated PhD scholar from the Department of Agronomy at SAU, shed light on the challenges hindering optimal rice production. She emphasized the detrimental impact of unnecessary weeds and plants during the crop season, which disrupt sunlight exposure and nutrient absorption, ultimately diminishing crop yield.

Attendees and Recognition

The seminar was attended by esteemed personalities, including Dr. Qamaruddin Jogi, Dr. Muhammad Nawaz Kandhro, and Dr. Naimatullah Leghari, among others. Dr. Reema Vistro presented her research thesis to Vice Chancellor Dr. Fateh Marri during the event.

The Future of Rice in Pakistan

With the continuous research and efforts in the rice sector, Pakistan aims to further strengthen its position as a leading rice exporter. The country’s rice suppliers and exporters, including companies like **HAS Rice Pakistan** and **Pakistan Rice**, play a significant role in meeting global rice demands. They offer a wide range of rice varieties, including white broken rice and the popular IRRI 6 rice. These companies also provide information on rice prices in Pakistan, helping both domestic and international customers make informed decisions.

In conclusion, rice holds a vital place in Pakistan’s agricultural landscape, being a key staple food and contributing significantly to the global rice trade. With ongoing research and collaboration, the future of rice production in Pakistan looks promising.

**Source:** [Business Recorder](https://www.brecorder.com){:target=”_blank” rel=”nofollow”}