ISLAMABAD: Pakistan has become the world’s third-largest rice exporting country at the beginning of 2026, according to a report published by the international journal Gulf News, marking a major milestone for the country’s agricultural exports.
The report states that Pakistan recorded a 14 percent month-on-month increase in rice exports in December 2025, driven largely by a more than 50 percent surge in Basmati rice exports, which played a key role in boosting overall performance.
In December 2025 alone, Pakistan exported 489,000 tonnes of rice to global markets. During the same period, Vietnam exported 387,000 tonnes, allowing Pakistan to surpass Vietnam and secure third place in global rice export rankings.
Major destinations for Pakistani rice included the United Arab Emirates, China, Tanzania, Kenya, and Ivory Coast, reflecting strong demand across the Middle East, Asia, and Africa.
Industry analysts attribute the growth to increased global demand for Pakistani Basmati rice, improved export competitiveness, and expanding access to international markets, positioning Pakistan as a key player in the global rice trade.
