Govt to Establish New Authority to Address EU Concerns Over Rice Exports

In response to trade barriers imposed by the European Union (EU) on Pakistani rice imports, the government has decided to establish the National Food Security, Animal, and Plant Health Regulatory Authority. Sources told ProPakistani that this initiative aims to address quality concerns raised by the EU and improve the standards of Pakistani agricultural products, thereby regaining and sustaining access to international markets. The decision follows a troubling year in 2024, during which 72 shipments of Pakistani rice were rejected by European countries due to substandard quality. Federal Minister for Food Security Rana Tanveer warned that if such issues persist, the EU might impose a complete ban on Pakistani rice imports. This situation mirrors a similar incident in the past when Russia also restricted rice imports from Pakistan due to quality concerns. Sources said Pakistan’s existing regulatory framework has been unable to meet the challenges posed by evolving global standards. An inquiry recommended the establishment of a new, independent authority equipped to align with international benchmarks. Consequently, the government resolved to launch the National Food Security, Animal, and Plant Health Regulatory Authority as a modernized institution to oversee agricultural exports and address quality issues. The authority is expected to play a pivotal role in ensuring compliance with international agricultural standards and restoring confidence in Pakistani products. It will not only enhance quality control throughout the supply chain but also facilitate better access to global agricultural markets, including the EU, which remains a critical destination for Pakistani rice.