ISLAMABAD: Federal Minister for National Food Security and Research Rana Tanveer Hussain has warned fertilizer dealers and suppliers against hoarding, artificial shortages and unjustified price increases, directing authorities to intensify market monitoring as farmers prepare for wheat cultivation during the Rabi season.
Chairing a meeting of the Fertilizer Review Committee on Tuesday, October 20, the minister said the government would take action against those involved in manipulating fertilizer supplies and prices.
He stressed that ensuring the timely availability of urea and diammonium phosphate (DAP) at reasonable prices remained a priority, particularly during the wheat sowing period.
The meeting reviewed fertilizer stocks, domestic production, distribution arrangements and projected demand for the ongoing Rabi cropping season.
Senior officials of the Ministry of National Food Security and Research and representatives of the fertilizer industry attended the meeting.
Rana Tanveer expressed satisfaction with the overall supply situation and said the government was working to maintain adequate fertilizer stocks to meet farmers’ requirements throughout the season.
He directed relevant authorities to strengthen market surveillance and maintain close coordination with provincial departments and fertilizer manufacturers to prevent supply disruptions.
Officials briefed the committee on measures being taken to ensure balanced fertilizer distribution across agricultural markets and the uninterrupted movement of supplies.
The minister acknowledged that fluctuations in international fertilizer markets and global economic uncertainty continued to affect agricultural input costs.
However, he said the government was determined to protect farmers from unnecessary financial pressure and maintain stability in the domestic fertilizer market.
“Farmers are the backbone of Pakistan’s agricultural economy, and ensuring their access to essential agricultural inputs at reasonable prices is our foremost responsibility,” he said.
Fertilizer supply crucial for wheat production
Highlighting the importance of the Rabi season for national food security, Rana Tanveer said timely fertilizer availability was essential for achieving wheat production targets and improving agricultural productivity.
He instructed officials to conduct regular assessments of fertilizer demand and availability, particularly in major wheat-producing areas, to identify and address potential shortages before they affect farmers.
The minister also emphasised effective planning and coordination among government departments, manufacturers and distributors to maintain a stable supply chain.
Fertilizer industry representatives briefed the committee on their distribution arrangements and assured the government of continued cooperation to maintain supplies during the cropping season.
Rana Tanveer reiterated that the government would closely monitor fertilizer markets and take necessary measures to prevent exploitation and protect farmers’ interests.