Pakistan must seize China’s rice opportunity

August 17, 2026

Pakistan has a major opportunity to increase its rice exports to China. Industry experts believe the country could potentially secure exports worth up to $1.5 billion if it moves quickly and adopts the right policies.

China is looking for alternative sources of non-Basmati rice as its rice trade with India faces difficulties. This changing situation can open a new market for Pakistani farmers and exporters. But Pakistan must not allow this opportunity to pass by.

According to industry representatives, Pakistan already has an advantage. Local farmers grow Chinese hybrid rice varieties, while the country also produces IRRI and other non-Basmati varieties. Pakistan therefore has the production base needed to increase supplies to the Chinese market.

China is expected to remain one of the world’s biggest rice importers, with estimated imports of around 3.1 million tonnes in 2025-26. Even a reasonable share of this market could bring valuable foreign exchange to Pakistan.

However, increasing exports cannot be achieved simply by asking farmers to produce more rice. The government must first make agriculture more profitable and easier for farmers. Farmers need affordable seeds, fertilisers, electricity, water and modern machinery. They also need access to credit at reasonable interest rates.

The government should particularly encourage the cultivation of hybrid rice varieties that meet Chinese market requirements. Agricultural research institutions should work with private companies and Chinese partners to develop better seeds, improve yields and ensure international quality standards.

Pakistan should also improve its storage, processing and transportation systems. Farmers often suffer losses because they do not have proper storage facilities and are forced to sell their produce at low prices immediately after harvest. Better warehouses, modern rice mills and efficient transport can reduce these losses and increase farmers’ incomes.

The government should also ensure that farmers receive a fair share of the benefits from rising exports. Export growth should not become an opportunity only for middlemen and large traders. Transparent market systems and better links between farmers, exporters and processors are essential.

The Pakistan-China Free Trade Agreement and CPEC-related connectivity can further support this effort. Pakistan should use these existing advantages to build a long-term agricultural export strategy.

The rice opportunity is a reminder that agriculture can become a major source of foreign exchange and rural prosperity. But this requires a farmer-friendly approach.

The government should act now, not after the opportunity disappears. Supporting farmers, improving productivity and opening new export markets can help turn Pakistan’s agricultural potential into real economic growth.