ISLAMABAD: Pakistan has emerged as the world’s third-largest rice exporter, overtaking Vietnam in December 2025 after recording its strongest monthly export performance to date, driven by a dramatic surge in Basmati rice shipments.
According to trade data, Pakistan exported 489,000 tonnes of rice in December (excluding Iran), marking a 14 per cent month-on-month increase.
The standout was Basmati rice, whose exports jumped by more than 50 per cent, propelling the country ahead of Vietnam’s 387,000 tonnes for the month. Only India and Thailand now rank above Pakistan globally.
The rebound highlights growing international confidence in Pakistani rice, particularly in premium and niche markets. The United Arab Emirates and China led as top buyers, each importing nearly 75,000 tonnes, while strong demand also came from East Africa, Southeast Asia, Europe, and North America.
A key bright spot has been Pakistan’s expanding presence in Central Asia, where direct exports to countries such as Kazakhstan and Uzbekistan gained momentum. With traditional transit routes disrupted, exporters have established new supply lines, boosting visibility and market access across the region.
Industry participants also point to emerging tailwinds: rising interest from Bangladesh, improving shipments to the United States following higher tariffs on Indian rice, and increased demand from Iran as traders shift to self-financed imports — a change that has favoured Pakistan due to its geographic proximity.
While structural and policy challenges remain, the December performance underscores Pakistan’s renewed competitiveness in the global rice trade, especially in premium Basmati markets.
With government focus now turning toward export-led growth, industry analysts see scope for sustained gains if reforms and market access efforts continue.
