World News for Students of English

02-10-2026 15:00

Basmati rice is one of the world’s most valuable rice varieties, and sells for up to twice the price of standard white rice. Both India and Pakistan grow this crop in the historical region of Punjab, which is now divided by an international border.

For years, both nations have been locked in a legal dispute over the exclusive right to the Basmati name in the EU. Receiving Protected Geographical Indication (PGI) status would grant a valuable market monopoly, but neither country has been able to submit a joint application due to a lack of political cooperation. Although similar disputes, such as Halloumi cheese in divided Cyprus, were resolved through joint EU frameworks, negotiations between India and Pakistan have completely stalled.

Without an agreement or EU protection, approximately 90% of rice sold globally under the name Basmati comes from other regions. Experts warn that if the EU delays its decision further it may destroy its protection completely.

Difficult words: exclusive right (the official permission given to only one person or group to do or sell something), monopoly (complete control of a market or product by one single company or country), stall (to stop moving forward or making progress, often unexpectedly).

You can watch the video news lower on this page.