A grain of contention between India and Pakistan may shape EU trade talks with New Delhi

A dispute over basmati rices protected status is straining India-Pakistan relations and may complicate New Delhis EU trade deal. Both countries claim exclusive rights to “basmati,” limiting it to specific regions. India seeks sole ownership to protect authenticity, while Pakistans claim includes areas in Pakistan-Occupied Kashmir. EU negotiations are stalled to avoid a diplomatic rift, even as India grows impatient.