REAP, PNSC join hands to boost rice exports

KARACHI: In a bid to bolster Pakistan’s rice export sector and reduce foreign exchange outflows, the Pakistan National Shipping Corporation (PNSC) and the Rice Exporters Association of Pakistan (REAP) have pledged collaboration.

The announcement came during a meeting at the REAP House in Karachi, where the PNSC Chairperson Sultan Ahmed Chawla and his commercial team were invited by REAP Group Chairman Abdul Rahim Janoo.

The meeting, attended by REAP officials and prominent rice exporters, underscored the sector’s growth, with exports climbing from $300 million to $3.9 billion last year. Highlighting the potential for further development, Janoo proposed forming a joint committee between REAP and the PNSC to explore mechanisms for utilising PNSC services for rice export shipments. This initiative aims to reduce the $300 million spent annually on foreign shipping companies.

Chawla applauded the achievements of REAP members, highlighting the importance of leveraging the country’s national shipping carrier to create a mutually beneficial framework for exporters and the shipping industry. He assured REAP of the PNSC’s full support in enhancing rice export operations.

Senior Vice Chairman REAP Javed Jillani highlighted a recent milestone where significant rice shipments were successfully exported to Bangladesh via bulk vessels. He expressed optimism about securing PNSC services for future exports, citing rising demand from international markets.