Pakistani Rice for Importers: Varieties, Grades and Quality Numbers Explained
A practical guide to Pakistani rice for importers: Basmati and non-Basmati varieties, the numbers behind them, how to read a quality specification and where the Basmati name stands after the New Zealand and Australian rulings.
A practical guide to Pakistani rice for importers: Basmati and non-Basmati varieties, the numbers behind them, how to read a quality specification and where the Basmati name stands after the New Zealand and Australian rulings.
What is the difference between Basmati and non-Basmati Pakistani rice?
Basmati is an aromatic long grain rice grown mainly in Punjab, sold on aroma, grain length and elongation. Non-Basmati rice, mostly IRRI-6 and KS-282 from Sindh and Punjab, is sold on price and broken percentage.
What does "5% broken" mean?
No more than 5% of the grains by weight are broken pieces. It is the standard premium grade for long grain white rice.
Is 1121 a Basmati rice?
It is an extra-long aromatic variety. TDAP lists it as PK 1121 Aromatic, separately from its Basmati group. Check how your own market classifies it for labelling and duty.
Does Pakistan own the Basmati trademark?
No country does. Pakistan registered Basmati as a Geographical Indication at home in 2021, and courts in New Zealand and Australia have refused to give India exclusive rights to the name.
When is new-crop Pakistani rice available?
Harvest begins in October, with new-crop shipments from late autumn. Aged Basmati from the previous crop is available year-round.