Pakistan is set to establish the National Food Security, Animal, and Plant Health Regulatory Authority to address quality concerns raised by the European Union (EU) about Pakistani rice exports. This decision comes in response to trade barriers imposed by the EU after multiple shipments of rice were rejected due to substandard quality.
In 2024 alone, 72 shipments of Pakistani rice were turned away by European countries, highlighting the urgent need for action. Federal Minister for Food Security, Rana Tanveer, has cautioned that if these issues persist, the EU could impose a complete ban on Pakistani rice. A similar situation occurred in the past when Russia restricted rice imports from Pakistan for similar reasons.
The government’s move to create a new authority aims to improve the quality and standards of agricultural products to align with global expectations. According to sources, the current regulatory framework in Pakistan has been unable to keep up with evolving international benchmarks, which led to an inquiry recommending the establishment of an independent authority.
The National Food Security, Animal, and Plant Health Regulatory Authority will focus on monitoring agricultural exports and ensuring compliance with international quality standards. By modernizing the oversight process, this institution aims to enhance the reputation of Pakistani agricultural products, including rice, in global markets.
This step is seen as critical for regaining the trust of international buyers and sustaining access to markets like the EU, which is a key destination for Pakistani rice. The authority is expected to oversee the entire supply chain, ensuring consistent quality and addressing any issues before products are exported.
In addition to meeting EU standards, this initiative will also open doors for Pakistani products in other global markets. By focusing on quality control and aligning with global standards, the government hopes to not only resolve existing issues but also create a sustainable future for agricultural exports from Pakistan.
The launch of this authority is an important step toward strengthening Pakistan’s agricultural sector and restoring confidence in its products on the international stage. This move is expected to benefit farmers, exporters, and the economy as a whole, ensuring that Pakistani rice continues to find a place on dinner tables around the world.
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