Realising the need to co-ordinate efforts and adopt an integrated approach to problems being faced by the rice sector, a group of rice growers, millers, processors & exporters formed a syndicate to ensure smooth supply of rice from the fields to the factories. This syndicate was much needed to streamline the smooth movement of different varieties of grain from the fields in Sindh, Balochistan, Punjab & NWFP, a press release of Union of Small & Medium Enterprises (Unisame) said on Thursday.
The objective of this syndicate, it said, is to forge strong co-ordination between the stakeholders in the face of very powerful competition from countries having edge due to various factors, which are not favourable in Pakistan.
The syndicate comprises of the big, medium & small growers, millers, processors & exporters and also includes in its fold rice brokers who are well spread in all the four provinces dealing in coarse and fine rice varieties and influencing the rice trade.
The syndicate in a meeting held in the office of rice exporter outlined its main objective to collectively combats the menace of the rice mafia that is bent upon destroying the rice trade.
Now that the different players have combined their efforts to improve their qualities, deliveries and terms and settle disputes amicably under the guidance of elders, the rice trade is expected to see brighter days under the umbrella of an effective committee.
This syndicate is created due to a collective effort to resolve the issues being faced by the rice stakeholders and is aiming at advising the government on positive steps for the long lasting development of the rice industry in Pakistan.