Pakistan has intensified efforts to increase rice exports to the Philippines, following discussions between Federal Commerce Minister Jam Kamal Khan and Philippine Ambassador Dr. Emmanuel R. Fernandez.
During the meeting, the commerce minister highlighted Pakistan’s surplus rice stocks and its ability to meet international quality standards. He stressed that government measures, including financial support mechanisms, are in place to help exporters stay price-competitive.
Jamal Kamal Khan also noted that global rice exports face increasing competition, which puts pressure on prices. To address this, Pakistan has developed a mechanism to ensure benchmark price competitiveness while maintaining high-quality standards.
The minister emphasized that timely coordination with the Philippines could help secure mutually beneficial agreements. He formally requested the Philippine leadership to consider increasing procurement from Pakistan, particularly ahead of upcoming tenders.
Ambassador Dr. Emmanuel R. Fernandez welcomed Pakistan’s proactive outreach. He noted that Pakistan has historically been among the Philippines’ top three rice suppliers and highlighted potential for increasing its market share. He added that rice trade will be a key agenda item in the upcoming Pakistan–Philippines Joint Economic Commission (JEC) session in February.
Both sides also discussed a draft memorandum of understanding (MoU) aimed at establishing a multi-year government-to-government rice exports framework. Technical teams from both countries are coordinating to finalize the MoU before the next procurement tenders.
Tariff issues, cost competitiveness, and continuity of supply were also key topics. Pakistani officials stressed that early agreement could help manage surplus rice stocks while securing reliable exports to the Philippine market.
In addition to rice, the Commerce Minister expressed interest in expanding kinnow (mandarin) exports to the Philippines, requesting that related tariff issues be reviewed through appropriate forums.
Both Pakistan and the Philippines reaffirmed their commitment to close coordination through diplomatic and commercial channels, aiming to strengthen bilateral trade in key agricultural commodities.
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