Federal Minister for National Food Security and Research Rana Tanveer Hussain on Saturday confirmed that Pakistan has sufficient wheat stocks to meet domestic requirements, issuing a stern warning against hoarding and artificial price hikes. The minister chaired the 9th Wheat Board meeting to review wheat production, availability, procurement, and market prices, according to a press release.
Wheat Board Meeting Highlights
The meeting was attended by the Secretary of the Ministry of National Food Security and Research, Chief Secretaries of Punjab and Sindh, Agriculture and Food Secretaries from all provinces, senior ministry officials, and representatives of the Pakistan Flour Mills Association and other stakeholders. The board conducted a detailed review of the wheat situation nationwide.
Provincial representatives unanimously informed the meeting that adequate wheat stocks are available and there is no shortage anywhere in the country. The board agreed that the estimated wheat production target has been achieved and that Pakistan has sufficient wheat reserves.
Production Increase and Market Oversight
Rana Tanveer Hussain noted that Pakistan’s wheat production this year is estimated to be 1.36 million metric tonnes higher than last year’s production, calling it an encouraging development. The meeting emphasized that provinces should closely monitor the wheat market and ensure effective market management. Participants stressed the need for regular and effective coordination between federal and provincial governments.
Government Measures Against Hoarding
The federal minister reaffirmed that protecting consumers’ interests remains the government’s foremost priority. He stated that the federal government, in collaboration with provincial governments, will take all necessary administrative and legal measures to curb hoarding, strengthen market oversight, and ensure wheat availability at affordable prices. The minister directed all relevant authorities to maintain close coordination, strengthen market monitoring, and take prompt action against any practices that disrupt the smooth supply of wheat or lead to unjustified price increases.
