Islamabad, January 26, 2026: President of the Federation of Pakistan Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FPCCI), Atif Ikram Sheikh, has welcomed the federal government’s decision to grant a rebate to rice exporters, terming it a timely step that will enhance Pakistan’s rice exports and provide relief to farmers.
In a statement, Atif Ikram Sheikh said the decision to offer a 9 percent rebate on Basmati rice and 3 percent on non-Basmati rice is commendable and will significantly improve the competitiveness of Pakistani rice in international markets. He said Pakistan’s rice exports are expected to generate around $1.5 billion in foreign exchange as a result of this measure.
He noted that Pakistani rice had been facing stiff competition from Indian rice due to comparatively higher prices. The rebate, he added, would help bridge the price gap between Pakistani and Indian rice, enabling local exporters to compete more effectively in the global market.
Atif Ikram Sheikh lauded Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and Federal Minister for Commerce Jam Kamal Khan for their efforts to support the rice sector, stating that the decision would not only boost exports but also strengthen the agricultural economy and directly benefit farmers.
Meanwhile, Kareem Aziz Malik, Chairman Capital Office FPCCI and Chief Executive Officer of Barkat Rice Mill, said the rebate was the result of sustained efforts by Atif Ikram Sheikh, who consistently highlighted the issue of high prices of Pakistani rice in international markets. He also expressed gratitude to the prime minister and the commerce minister for their continued support to the rice industry.
