Pakistan’s rice export industry has welcomed the federal government’s decision to extend the DTLTL Scheme for an additional 90 days, a move expected to provide much-needed relief to exporters and strengthen the country’s position in global rice markets.
Former Chairman of the Rice Exporters Association of Pakistan (REAP), Rafiq Suleman, said the timely decision would help reduce financial pressure on exporters while supporting continued export growth.
DTLTL Scheme Extended to Support Rice Exporters
The decision was approved during a meeting of the Export Development Fund (EDF) Committee, where REAP Chairman Faisal Malik Jhangir represented the association and presented the industry’s key demands.
Under the approved package, the DTLTL Scheme incentive for Basmati rice has been increased from 3% to 5%, while the 9% incentive for Non-Basmati rice has been retained, offering significant support to rice exporters.
Pakistan’s Rice Exports Expected to Exceed US$3 Billion
Rafiq Suleman said the government’s extension of the scheme would play a key role in helping Pakistan’s rice exports surpass US$3 billion during the current fiscal year.
He noted that the recent conflict in the Middle East had disrupted export operations over the past one and a half months due to a shortage of shipping vessels, interruptions in shipping routes, and a sharp increase in ocean freight charges.
According to him, these challenges prevented many exporters from fulfilling international orders on time, resulting in financial losses and affecting their business reputation.
DTLTL Scheme to Strengthen Global Competitiveness
REAP Senior Vice Chairman Javed Jillani said the 90-day extension of the DTLTL Scheme would enable exporters to complete pending orders, secure new international contracts, and improve the competitiveness of Pakistani rice in global markets.
He added that the extension comes at a time when Indian rice is available at comparatively lower prices, making continued government support essential for maintaining Pakistan’s export momentum.
Benefits for the Entire Rice Value Chain
Javed Jillani said the government’s support would not only increase Pakistan’s foreign exchange earnings but also benefit the entire rice value chain, including farmers, rice millers, exporters, and allied industries.
He said the initiative would encourage greater rice cultivation, promote economic activity in rural areas, and strengthen the country’s agricultural export sector.
REAP Appreciates Government Support
Javed Jillani thanked the Prime Minister of Pakistan, the Ministry of Commerce, and members of the Export Development Fund Committee for addressing the concerns of the rice industry on a priority basis.
He also acknowledged the contributions of REAP Chairman Faisal Malik Jhangir, Patron-in-Chief Rahim Jano, former Chairman Rafiq Suleman, Mohibullah, Samiullah, Haseeb, and other team members for their efforts in advocating for the industry.
In addition, he appreciated the role of the print and electronic media in highlighting the challenges faced by Pakistan’s rice exporters.
Call for Continued Export-Friendly Policies
Javed Jillani urged the government to continue supporting exporters by reducing shipping costs, ensuring the timely payment of refunds, improving access to bank financing, and maintaining consistent export-oriented policies.
He said these measures would help Pakistan further expand its share in the global rice trade while strengthening the long-term growth of the country’s export sector.
