Pakistan and Indonesia agreed to deepen trade cooperation with focus on rice exports. The decision came during a meeting between Commerce Minister Jam Kamal Khan and Indonesia’s ambassador. Both sides stressed early institutional engagement to boost trade.
During the meeting, the minister outlined Pakistan’s evolving trade strategy centered on rice. He said the government is improving competitiveness through financial and commercial support. He assured quality standards would not be compromised.
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Moreover, the minister noted Pakistan remains among the world’s leading rice exporters. However, he acknowledged intense global price competition after market interventions by major producers. These shifts have created new challenges for exporters.
The two sides also reviewed the expired 2015 rice MoU for government-to-government procurement. Pakistan has shared a revised draft with Indonesia for early finalization. The goal is long-term cooperation in the staple commodity.
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Meanwhile, the minister raised concerns over kinnow exports and delayed Indonesian import quotas. He warned delays could hurt growers and exporters. Both sides agreed to convene trade bodies and maintain momentum through consultations.