The Government will approach the International Monetary Fund (IMF) to restore the annual minimum support price for wheat. Officials say this measure is critical to boosting production, which has fallen since the policy was removed.
Minister for National Food Security and Research Rana Tanveer Hussain informed the National Assembly Standing Committee that Islamabad is pressing the IMF for flexibility on food-related policies. Reduced state oversight has pushed wheat prices higher, forcing the Government to consider imports.
“If output falls another 6% this year, we may have to import $1.5 billion worth of wheat,” the minister warned. A new wheat policy is expected to be introduced in the first week of October.
The committee, chaired by MNA Syed Hussain Tariq, also reviewed sugar production and trade. Sugar output reached 5.8 million tons this year, below the previous year’s 7.6 million tons and expectations of 7.2 million tons. Pakistan exported $450 million worth of sugar without subsidies but now needs $150 million in imports to cover the shortfall. Officials blamed rising sugar prices partly on the sugar mafia.
Lawmakers questioned why wheat prices were stabilized while sugar remained volatile. They warned that imports could affect local farmers during the upcoming crushing season.
The committee also discussed tobacco policy, requesting the Pakistan Tobacco Board allocate funds for social welfare in tobacco-growing regions and report on market price gaps for flavored tobacco and fillers. Tobacco companies were asked to submit written accounts of their key challenges and proposed solutions.
On broader agricultural policy, officials briefed the committee on the National Agriculture Biotechnology Policy (NABP) 2025, focusing on genetically modified crops, new breeding tools, and biotechnology research. Lawmakers cautioned about export risks and requested a Phase II feasibility report.
Additionally, the committee sought updates on flood-related crop damage and emphasized stronger research and development in seed production. The Government aims to stabilize wheat prices and protect farmers while ensuring national food security.
In other related news also read Pakistan Meets Most IMF Conditions Ahead Of Review Mission
