Importing basmati rice from Pakistan: a buyer's guide

Pack sizes and loads

Basmati is shipped in retail packets of 2 and 5 kg, in 10 and 25 kg bags for wholesale, and in bulk jumbo bags. A 20 ft container typically carries around 18 to 20 tons of bagged rice and a 40 ft container around 25 to 27 tons, depending on packing. Mixed loads of two products or several pack sizes are normal.

Documents

• Certificate of Origin
• Phytosanitary Certificate
• Fumigation Certificate
• Packing List and Commercial Invoice
• Halal Certificate where required by the destination

Lead time

Allow two to four weeks from order confirmation to shipment for most container orders, longer in peak season after the harvest. Shipments leave from Karachi Port or Port Qasim.

What to ask the mill

• Which variety exactly? Ask for the variety name, for example 1121 Kainat.
• Is it white or sella, and what is the average grain length?
• Is the rice from the current crop, and is it aged?
• Can you send a sample before the order?
• What pack sizes and bag types are available?

Ready to ask us those questions? Use the export enquiry form and we will reply within 24 hours.