Pakistan wins trade victory as basmati rice declared Pakistani product

(Web Desk): In a positive move for Pakistan's trade, Australia and New Zealand have officially recognized long-grain basmati rice as a "Pakistani product."

This decision comes amid a dispute between India and Pakistan over the rice's origin. India has been trying to get basmati rice officially recognized as a unique product of India, but Pakistan strongly disagrees, arguing that the rice is a shared heritage of both countries.

In December 2024, India took its case to the European Court of Justice after the European Union refused India’s request to add its name to Pakistan’s application for protected Geographical Indication (PGI) status for basmati. Despite increasing demand for basmati in the US and Europe, the rice’s origins have sparked heated disagreements, and its future remains uncertain.

Basmati rice has deep roots in the Punjab region, which is now split between India and Pakistan. Archaeologists believe the rice has been cultivated for around 2,000 years, and historical records mention it as far back as the 16th century during the Mughal Empire. From the beginning, India and Pakistan have clashed over who owns the rights to basmati. During the 1965 war, Pakistani farmers even claimed Indian soldiers had stolen their rice seeds.

India’s attempts to claim ownership of basmati rice globally have faced setbacks. While India’s case in the EU is still ongoing, both Australia and New Zealand have rejected India’s claims.