ISLAMABAD: At a time when rice exports are steadily declining, the Ministry of Commerce has allocated around Rs15 billion for a rebate scheme on local taxes and levies for rice exporters, raising concerns about a potential rise in domestic prices.

Exporters remain divided over the government’s decision, which has been presented as a support measure for the sector. Several industry players, however, argue that the move fails to address the structural problems confronting rice exports and instead risks shifting the burden onto domestic consumers.

Rice Exporters Association of Pakistan (REAP) Chairman Faisal Jahangir told Dawn that the Drawback on Local Taxes and Levies (DLTL) scheme would help lower export prices and improve Pakistan’s ability to compete with global suppliers. He said Indian rice was currently being offered at significantly lower prices, making it........

© Dawn Business