RRI-developed grain measures 9.66mm, offers higher yields; exporters see potential in premium rice markets
ISLAMABAD:
Scientists at the Rice Research Institute (RRI) have developed a new Basmati rice variety featuring the longest grain ever recorded in Pakistan, measuring 9.66mm, a development expected to strengthen the country’s position in premium rice markets.
“Sultan Super Basmati, developed in 2025, has a grain length of 9.66mm, the longest so far in Pakistan’s rice varietal spectrum,” Dr Usman Saleem, Senior Scientist at the RRI, Kala Shah Kaku, told Wealth Pakistan.
He said the cooked grain of Sultan Super Basmati attains a length of up to 20mm, a rare trait that enhances its appeal in international markets. The variety also has a yield potential of up to 77 maunds per acre, significantly higher than the average yield of around 45 maunds per acre achieved by existing Basmati varieties.
Earlier, in 2023, the institute had developed Sona Super Basmati, which held the record with a grain length of 9.5mm. Prior to that, Kainat Basmati was considered the longest-grain variety in Pakistan, measuring 8.26mm. However, scientists note that Kainat is not a pure Basmati line, but rather a fine rice variety with Basmati-like aroma. Dr Saleem said the new variety possesses a strong and typical Basmati aroma along with superior cooking qualities. “It cooks evenly and maintains excellent grain elongation. Although it is a slightly late-sown variety, it matures around the same time as other commonly grown Basmati types,” he added. He said the institute is currently working on three additional Basmati lines, expressing optimism that these would be released in the next two to three years.
To date, RRI has developed 33 high-yielding fine and coarse rice varieties, including Basmati 385, Super Basmati, Super Gold and Chenab.
Rice exporters have welcomed the development, expressing hope that the new variety would help Pakistan enhance its presence in international markets. “Extra-long grain rice is highly sought after globally. However, for export success, the variety must be adopted quickly by farmers,” said Taufiq Ahmad Khan, former senior vice chairman of REAP.
