Rice exports from Pakistan were previously dealt by the Rice Export Corporation of Pakistan. After rice exports were allowed to the private sector, a new body of people emerged in the shape of Rice Exporters Association of Pakistan.

In 1988-89 Rice Exporters Association of Pakistan (REAP) came into existence and started interacting with the Ministry of Commerce and Ministry of Food Agriculture and Livestock and also with the Planning Division of the Government of Pakistan.

In 1992 REAP also played host to the Arabian Gulf Cooperative Council which included government buyers from Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, Oman, U.A.E., Bahrain and Qatar. For the first time since private sector was allowed rice exports they made a sale of 36000 tons.