ISLAMABAD: Pakistan has secured an additional export allocation of 70,000 metric tonnes of rice for Malaysia for the October-December 2026 period, with Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif describing the development as an important step for farmers and the country’s export-driven growth.
According to a statement issued by the Prime Minister’s Office on Friday, the additional rice exports were secured following diplomatic and trade efforts undertaken on the prime minister’s instructions.
Shehbaz Sharif said expanding access for Pakistani agricultural products to international markets remains a key government priority.
He said the government would continue working towards export-led economic growth and praised the officials involved in securing the additional Malaysian market access for Pakistani rice.
The prime minister particularly acknowledged the efforts of Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Senator Ishaq Dar, the ministers for national food security and commerce, as well as the secretaries of the two ministries.
“The additional export of 70,000 metric tonnes of Pakistani rice is an important development for farmers’ prosperity and the national economy,” the statement quoted the prime minister as saying.
The additional quantity is scheduled for export to Malaysia between October and December 2026.
The government said the agreement was the result of sustained diplomatic and commercial engagement with Malaysia by the relevant ministries and officials.
Pakistan and Malaysia have been working to expand bilateral trade, with rice among the agricultural products discussed in recent economic engagements between the two countries. Earlier cooperation also included Malaysian commitments to import Pakistani Basmati rice.
The latest development comes as the government continues to place greater emphasis on exports as part of its economic growth strategy. Prime Minister Shehbaz has recently reiterated the need to increase exports alongside investment and job creation.