Rice is one of the most important crops globally and in Pakistan. It is a staple food for over half the world's population. In Pakistan, rice production has decreased significantly from 6,883 thousand tons in 2009-10 to 4,823 thousand tons in 2010-11, a decrease of 29.9%. The imposition of a 17% sales tax on agricultural inputs could further decrease rice productivity and GDP growth from agriculture in Pakistan. Rice plays an important economic and cultural role in Pakistan as a major staple food and export.