Pakistan’s rice exporters achieved a notable milestone in September, overtaking Vietnam in both shipment volumes and average export prices. The performance stands out because the industry faced rising freight expenses, shipping disruptions and geopolitical uncertainty across the Gulf.
Pakistan shipped 420,000 tonnes of rice during the month, compared with Vietnam’s 337,000 tonnes. More importantly, Pakistani rice fetched an average of $621 per tonne, considerably higher than Vietnam’s $563.
The figures point to Pakistan’s growing competitiveness in the international rice market, with its premium Basmati varieties continuing to attract buyers despite mounting trade pressures.
Pakistan Leads Vietnam in Monthly Rice Exports
Pakistan’s rice exports reached 420,000 tonnes in September 2026, surpassing Vietnam’s shipments by 83,000 tonnes.
The price difference also favoured Pakistani exporters. Pakistan received an average of $621 per tonne, while Vietnamese exporters earned approximately $563 per tonne.
This performance points to continued international interest in Pakistani rice, especially aromatic varieties. However, monthly export figures do not necessarily indicate a permanent shift in global market rankings.
Rice industry expert Hamid Malik said Pakistan’s export performance had been improving since December 2025. During that month, Pakistan surpassed Vietnam’s monthly export volume for the first time in more than two decades.
Basmati Demand Supports Pakistan’s Export Performance
Pakistan’s premium Basmati rice remains an important contributor to its international trade performance. Buyers in major markets continue to prioritise aromatic rice from Pakistan and India.
Meanwhile, global Basmati trade remained stable at approximately 6.9 million tonnes. This volume matched the level recorded in 2025.
Despite higher transportation costs and logistical difficulties, international buyers continued purchasing these varieties.
The sustained demand has helped Pakistan maintain export momentum, although exporters still face considerable operating pressures.
Gulf Tensions and Rising Shipping Costs Challenge Exporters
Geopolitical tensions and conflict in the Gulf created additional difficulties for Pakistan’s rice trade during 2026.
Higher inland transportation expenses and processing costs increased pressure on exporters. Furthermore, shipment delays, rising marine insurance premiums and longer payment cycles complicated international transactions.
Disruptions along important maritime shipping routes added to these challenges.
Non-aromatic rice exports also faced broader market pressure. Shipments from major exporting countries, including Pakistan, Thailand and Vietnam, reportedly declined by 20 to 30 per cent.
Consequently, exporters had to navigate weaker demand conditions in some segments alongside rising logistics expenses.
Why Pakistan’s Rice Industry Faces Structural Challenges
Pakistan’s rice export sector relies largely on private businesses and market-based procurement. Unlike some competing countries, the industry lacks several forms of government-backed support.
These include a government-backed minimum support price for paddy, state-funded marine insurance and freight subsidies.
As a result, exporters face additional exposure to market fluctuations and transportation costs.
Nevertheless, Pakistan’s recent export performance suggests the sector has maintained considerable momentum despite these disadvantages.
What Is Driving Pakistan’s Rice Export Momentum?
Pakistan entered the 2026-27 financial year with stronger export momentum, supported by substantial carry-over stocks.
Malik also attributed the improvement to an estimated 18 to 20 per cent expansion in rice cultivation during the latest planting season.
These factors have helped strengthen the country’s export capacity and support shipments to international markets.
However, maintaining this performance will depend on market demand, production conditions and exporters’ ability to manage rising costs.
Pakistan’s September performance marks a notable achievement against Vietnam. Still, sustaining higher export volumes and prices will remain an important challenge for the country’s rice industry.
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