A diplomatic push to turn setbacks into global recognition for Pakistani Basmati
PM Shahbaz Sharif chairs meeting to finalize rice diplomacy scheme
ISLAMABAD: In an apparent effort at damage control, Prime Minister Shahbaz Sharif has announced the launch of a “Rice Diplomacy” initiative. The move aims to restore confidence in Pakistan’s rice exports and promote its premium varieties globally, following a series of interceptions reported in Europe that raised concerns about quality standards.
As per information exclusively available with The Public Tribune, Prime Minister Sharif recently chaired a high-level meeting with relevant ministries and stakeholders to finalize the arrangements for this initiative. The Ministry of Commerce and the Ministry of National Food Security and Research have been tasked with preparing 5kg bags of premium, aromatic Basmati rice, beautifully packaged for distribution to heads of state, ministers, and diplomats in around 27 countries.
Depending on the recipient country’s trade relations and strategic importance, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs will oversee the dispatch of these gift packages. Each country is expected to receive approximately 40 bags, totaling 200kg of Pakistan’s finest Basmati rice, showcasing the best of what the nation has to offer.
Insiders further disclosed that the rice being sent as diplomatic gifts has undergone stringent quality control measures, including full treatment, processing, and fumigation, ensuring it is pest-free and meets international standards.
The timing of this initiative is critical. Reports of an increasing number of interceptions in rice consignments destined for Europe had tarnished Pakistan’s reputation as a reliable exporter. In response to the crisis, a committee was formed to investigate the matter. However, the committee’s findings failed to provide actionable technical feedback, instead triggering a raid by the Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) on a department within the Ministry of National Food Security and Research.
Also read: Rice exports issue resolved, but at what cost?
The subsequent arrests of a few inspectors, rather than addressing the systemic issues plaguing the rice export supply chain, exacerbated the crisis. This misstep led to a week-long halt in rice exports, causing significant economic repercussions.
Industry insiders remain skeptical about the ability of non-technical department heads to address these challenges effectively. Many experts have called for a comprehensive review and corrective measures across the entire rice supply chain to prevent further setbacks.
Also read: Rice consignments to be cleared from port without delay
As Pakistan embarks on its Rice Diplomacy campaign, the initiative is not just about damage control but also a strategic move to bolster the country’s image as a top-tier exporter of premium rice. Whether this effort will be enough to counteract the recent crises remains to be seen.
