Pakistan confident of meeting wheat targets amid ongoing harvest

Pakistan is on track to meet its wheat production targets for the 2025–26 rabi season as harvesting continues across provinces, Federal Minister for National Food Security and Research Rana Tanveer Hussain said on Wednesday.

Chairing a meeting of the National Wheat Oversight Committee in Islamabad, the minister expressed confidence that provincial governments would achieve their production goals. He noted that wheat prices in the domestic market currently range between Rs3,500 and Rs4,000 per 40kg, aligning with international trends. This, he said, ensures fair returns for farmers while keeping wheat affordable for consumers.

The meeting reviewed the ongoing wheat procurement campaign, harvesting progress, and prevailing market conditions. The minister reiterated the government’s commitment to food security and safeguarding farmers’ interests through fair pricing and efficient procurement operations.

Putin Offers Ukraine Ceasefire on Victory Day May 9

Rana Tanveer Hussain directed authorities to strengthen monitoring of wheat stocks and market trends, emphasising the use of digital tools and data-driven strategies to improve decision-making. He also stressed the need to enhance storage capacity and reduce post-harvest losses.

To ensure smooth supply, the minister instructed provincial governments to facilitate uninterrupted inter-provincial movement of wheat and remove any administrative or logistical barriers. He highlighted the importance of transparency in procurement and urged timely payments to farmers, establishment of sufficient procurement centres, and reduction in delays.

The meeting also discussed measures to curb hoarding and profiteering, with strict action ordered against those involved in market manipulation.

Expressing satisfaction over the current situation, the minister said that wheat reserves are sufficient to meet domestic consumption needs, ensuring stability in the country’s food supply system.