ISLAMABAD, Oct 20 (APP):Federal Minister for National Food Security and Research, Rana Tanveer Hussain on Tuesday stressed that artificial shortages, hoarding, and unjustified price increases would not be tolerated, and that appropriate action must be taken against those involved in market manipulation.
The minister chaired a meeting of the Fertilizer Review Committee to assess fertilizer availability, market prices, distribution arrangements, and supply requirements for the ongoing Rabi cropping season.
The meeting was attended by senior ministry officials and stakeholders from the fertilizer industry.
During the meeting, the Federal Minister emphasized that ensuring the timely availability of fertilizers, particularly urea and DAP, remains a key government priority.
He expressed satisfaction over the overall fertilizer supply situation and reaffirmed the Government’s commitment to maintaining sufficient stocks to meet farmers’ requirements throughout the Rabi season.
The Committee reviewed the prevailing stock position, domestic production, supply chain arrangements, and anticipated fertilizer demand during the wheat sowing season. Officials briefed the meeting on measures being undertaken to maintain a balanced supply across the country and ensure the smooth movement of fertilizers to agricultural markets.
Rana Tanveer Hussain directed the concerned authorities to strengthen market surveillance and maintain close coordination with relevant departments and fertilizer manufacturers to prevent supply disruptions.
The Minister observed that fluctuations in international fertilizer markets and global economic uncertainties continue to pose challenges to agricultural input costs.
However, he emphasized that the Government remains focused on protecting farmers from unnecessary financial pressures and ensuring 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. The Government is closely monitoring fertilizer supplies and will take all necessary measures to safeguard farmers’ interests,” the Minister stated.
Highlighting the importance of the Rabi season for national food security, Rana Tanveer Hussain said that the timely availability of fertilizers is particularly critical for achieving wheat production targets and improving agricultural productivity.
He underscored the need for effective planning, efficient distribution, and coordinated efforts among all relevant stakeholders.
The Minister further directed that regular assessments of fertilizer demand and availability should continue throughout the cropping season, with particular attention to major wheat-producing areas.
He emphasized that any emerging supply constraints must be identified and addressed promptly to avoid inconvenience to farmers.
Fertilizer industry stakeholders shared updates on distribution arrangements and reaffirmed their commitment to maintaining close coordination with the federal government to ensure uninterrupted fertilizer supplies.
Concluding the meeting, Federal Minister Rana Tanveer Hussain reiterated that the Government is fully committed to ensuring fertilizer availability, discouraging market exploitation, and supporting farmers during the Rabi season.
Source: APP (Associated Press of Pakistan)
