Pakistan is set to enhance its rice trade to Turkiye, offering both Basmati and non-Basmati varieties at competitive international prices. This initiative was discussed during a meeting between Federal Minister for Commerce Jam Kamal Khan and Turkish Ambassador Dr. Irfan Nezirolu on January 29, 2026.
The meeting, directed by Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, focused on boosting agricultural exports amid global competition. Minister Khan emphasized Pakistan’s excellent paddy harvest this season, ensuring quality and surplus for export. However, he acknowledged challenges due to aggressive pricing by competitors like India and Vietnam.
How will Rice Trade remain competitive?
Pakistan has developed a price support mechanism to remain competitive globally, aiming to match prevailing international prices. This approach, discussed with rice exporters and stakeholders, seeks to prevent cost disadvantages for buyers sourcing from Pakistan.
Both nations explored activating government-to-government trade channels alongside existing private-sector mechanisms. Pakistan’s state trading entities will coordinate with Turkish institutions to facilitate bulk purchases, ensuring price competitiveness.
Discussions also addressed market access issues, including tariff-rate quotas and import licensing procedures. Minister Khan advocated for better utilization of the existing 18,000 metric ton quota under the Pakistan-Turkiye Preferential Trade Agreement, which has been underutilized.
Ambassador Nezirolu reaffirmed Turkiye’s commitment to enhancing economic ties, noting that despite strong political relations, bilateral trade remains below potential. The $5 billion trade target set during the Strategic Cooperation Council meeting signifies the ambition to strengthen these ties.
Both sides agreed on increasing engagement between business communities through trade delegations and exhibitions. Technical delegations will meet soon to advance discussions on rice trade, PTA expansion, and broader cooperation in agriculture and food processing.
Published in SouthAsianDesk, January 29th, 2026
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