KARACHI, Dec 20: The Rice Exporters Association of Pakistan (REAP) has urged Kenya to lower import duty on Pakistani rice from 35 per cent to zero rate.

Speaking at a dinner hosted by the REAP for high commissioner of Kenya, Mohammad Omar Soba here on Thursday, the chairman of the rice exporters body, Abdul Rahim Janoo suggested that both the countries should also promote counter trade (barter) which is in line with Kenyan government’s trade policy.

Janoo drew the attention of the high commissioner towards delays in issuance of visas for businessmen and said that prompt and multiple visas be issued to Pakistani exporters and efforts be made to send rice delegations to Kenya with a view to explore markets of neighbouring countries of the region.

Mohammad Omar Soba assured the REAP members that he would send their genuine demands to his government, particularly with regard to reduction in import duty to zero rate.