ISLAMABAD: The federal government has approved the import of one million tonnes of wheat after acknowledging a supply-demand gap in the country. The provincial governments and farmers pointed out possible shortage of wheat and urged the government to allow wheat import.
Federal Government Moves to Stabilize Prices
Federal Minister for National Food Security and Research Rana Tanveer Hussain confirmed the decision on Thursday. He said provincial governments had demanded imports to control rising wheat and flour prices.
Consequently, the government expects the move to stabilize prices across the country. Official data showed wheat prices reached Rs4,611 per 40kg during the first week of July.
The price rose from Rs4,516 recorded a week earlier. Punjab reported wheat at Rs4,423 per 40kg, while Sindh recorded Rs4,625.
Meanwhile, prices reached Rs5,100 in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and Rs4,800 in Balochistan. Flour prices also increased, with the national average reaching Rs1,288 per 10kg.
Wheat Shortfall Raises Supply Concerns
Authorities first flagged a potential wheat deficit on April 29, based on early crop estimates. Initial projections indicated a shortfall of 1.2 million tonnes during 2026-27.
However, the Progressive Flour Millers Group estimated the gap at 2.5 million tonnes. The group said Punjab’s production stood near 19.5 million tonnes.
Moreover, official estimates put Pakistan’s wheat demand at 34.33 million tonnes for the year ending April 30, 2027. Human consumption accounts for 30.83 million tonnes, while feed, seed, and reserves require the remainder.
