How To Export Rice from Pakistan to the USA

Pakistan is a prominent participant in the dynamic global rice trade, exporting rice valued at $1.4 billion to destinations across the globe. Even with this significant contribution, there is still room for expansion, with the potential to generate an extra $715.3 million in export revenue, especially in the case of rice products that have been partially or fully milled.

Two main product categories dominate the global rice trade; fragrant rice and non-fragrant rice. In international markets, fragrant rice with well-known types like basmati and jasmine commands a substantial price. Basmati rice is highly sought after in the Middle East and the European Union, where it is primarily imported from Pakistan and India.

Let’s look at the area of rice cultivation in Pakistan along with the varieties.

Global Rice Exporting Countries

Principal rice exporting countries worldwide in 2023/2024

Export Rice from Pakistan to the USA

In case you want to look deeper into the transforming world of the rice trade in 2024, then have a quick look at the suitable places/companies to export rice from Pakistan to the USA:

1. eWorldTrade

The eWorldTrade Platform is a vital tool for enabling international trade in rice by serving as a bridge between exporters such as Tarbani Foods and KRBL Limited and others and buyers across the globe. By making rice exporters more visible and reachable using its online marketplace, eWorldTrade supports the expansion and prosperity of the sector globally.

2. Tarbani Foods

Tarbani Foods’ commitment to superior, eco-friendly farming methods helps it to keep its top spot in rice exports. Tarbani Foods, which is well-known for manufacturing high-quality rice products, has gained international recognition and made a substantial contribution to the global rice trade.

3. Matco Foods Limited

Based in Karachi, Pakistan, Matco Foods Limited is a well-known exporter of rice. Their area of expertise lies in supplying the United States with high-grade Basmati and non-Basmati rice varietals. Matco Foods makes sure that its rice satisfies worldwide standards by using cutting-edge processing equipment and stringent quality control procedures.

4. KRBL Limited

Recognized in the world of rice trade for its Basmati variety, KRBL Limited is still a major player. Its reputation as a trustworthy vendor of premium Basmati rice is further strengthened by its commitment to maintaining standards and excellence, guaranteeing its continuous ranking among the top 10 rice exporters.

5. Falcon Rice Mills

Falcon Rice Mills, based in Pakistan’s Karachi, is well-known for exporting premium rice to the United States. They provide a range of rice products that are produced with the newest technology and meet stringent quality standards, including both Basmati and non-Basmati rice.

6. Amira Basmati Rice

With its fragrant and excellent-quality Basmati rice selections, Amira Basmati Rice never fails to impress. Its emphasis on customer satisfaction and global reach allows it to be ranked among the top 10 rice exporters, satisfying the demand for premium rice around the world.

7. Matco Commodities

A sibling company of Matco Foods Limited, Matco Commodities is focused on exporting rice from Pakistan to the United States. They are well-established in the global industry and renowned for their dependability, consistency, and dedication to excellence.

8. Khalid Rice Mills

With years of experience in the rice exporting business, Khalid Rice Mills is a family-owned business located in Karachi, Pakistan. They follow stringent quality control procedures and export a range of rice products, including both Basmati and non-Basmati rice, to the USA market.

9. Habib Rice Products Ltd

With its headquarters in Karachi, Pakistan, Habib Rice Products Ltd is a well-known rice exporter with a significant market share in the USA. They specialize in supplying discriminating clients in the USA with premium quality Basmati rice that is derived from Pakistan’s fertile regions.

10. Alishan Foods

Located in Karachi, Pakistan, Alishan Foods is a well-known exporter of rice. Their area of expertise lies in exporting top-notch Basmati rice to the United States market. In the international rice market, Alishan Foods has made a name for itself as a reliable supplier by emphasizing innovation and client pleasure.

11. Alfarid Corporation

Based in Lahore, Pakistan, Alfarid Corporation is a reputable rice exporter. They produce a large variety of rice products that are sold to the United States and other international markets, such as long-grain, parboiled, and Basmati rice. Alfarid Corporation has a reputation for dependability and dedication to excellence.

Regulations and Requirements set forth by both Pakistani and US Authorities

Following the rules and specifications set forth by US and Pakistani authorities is necessary when exporting rice from Pakistan to the United States. Here are some important rules to take into account:

1. Standards of Quality

Verify that the rice satisfies the requirements for quality established by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA).

2. Export Records

Assemble the required export paperwork, such as packing lists, certificates of origin, and commercial invoices. Recognize any applicable trade restrictions, duties, or tariffs that the US government may have placed on rice imports. To find the appropriate tariff classification and the rates of duty for your rice products, consult the Harmonised Tariff Schedule (HTS).

3. Import Licenses and Permits

Find out if importing rice into the United States requires a license or an import permit. A license or permit from US authorities is required for particular kinds of rice, as some may be liable to import restrictions or quotas.

4. Labelling specifications

Ascertain that the rice packaging conforms with US labeling regulations, which stipulate that the product name, net weight, ingredient list, and allergen declarations must all be included on the label.

5. Clearance through Customs

When you arrive in the USA, work with a reliable goods forwarder or customs broker to streamline the customs clearance process. Provide precise information and documentation to speed up the clearance procedure and prevent fines or delays.

6. Trade Agreements

Take into account any pertinent trade agreements or preferential trade schemes, such as the Generalised System of Preferences (GSP) or bilateral trade agreements, that may affect rice exports between Pakistan and the USA.

7. Constant Monitoring

Keep well-informed of any modifications or adjustments to US import laws, trade agreements, or market specifications that might have an impact on Pakistani rice exports. Keep an eye out for pertinent updates regularly from official sources like the US Customs and Border Protection (CBP), the USDA, and the FDA.

The Wrap Up

In case you want to export rice from Pakistan to the USA, then you can consider the above-mentioned options. However, you must stay cognizant of the rules and regulations related to the rice trade between Pakistan and the USA.