PAC Raises Concerns Over Wheat Imports and Support for Local Farmers
The federal government is facing criticism over its wheat policy, with lawmakers raising concerns about insufficient procurement from local farmers while preparations are being made to import wheat.
The Public Accounts Committee (PAC) on Tuesday called for a detailed review of wheat imports, procurement practices and the financial losses reportedly suffered by farmers.
PAC Reviews Wheat Policy
The committee, chaired by Moin Amir Pirzada, examined audit objections concerning the Ministry of National Food Security and Research for the fiscal year 2024-25.
Audit officials told the committee that the existing wheat policy had negatively affected farmers. They also pointed to inadequate procurement by provincial governments and the absence of a consistent purchasing strategy.
According to the officials, provinces did not procure enough wheat from domestic growers, while wheat imports continued. The audit authorities recommended investigating the reasons behind the policy decisions.
Dispute Over Responsibility for Wheat Procurement
The Secretary of the Ministry of National Food Security told the committee that wheat procurement falls under the responsibility of provincial governments and that the federal government cannot directly intervene in the process.
However, PPP Senator Saleem Mandviwalla argued that the federal government has control over wheat imports. He warned that continued difficulties for local farmers could eventually force Pakistan to rely more heavily on imported wheat, increasing pressure on the country’s foreign exchange reserves.
PAC Chairman Moin Amir Pirzada also said preparations were underway to import approximately one million tons of wheat.
Lawmakers Question Support for Farmers
Former foreign minister Hina Rabbani Khar said local farmers were not receiving sufficient support through government procurement and pricing policies.
She compared the situation with agricultural support provided to farmers in European countries and questioned why foreign exchange could be allocated for wheat imports while domestic farmers were not receiving adequate support.
PTI lawmaker Rana Qasim Noon also criticized the country’s agricultural policies, claiming that farmers had been adversely affected by inconsistent government decisions.
Calls for a Long-Term Agricultural Policy
Senator Mandviwalla said Pakistan repeatedly faces policy changes involving wheat and sugar and stressed the need for a stable, long-term agricultural strategy.
The PAC also expressed concern over the decision to permit sugar exports and directed relevant authorities to halt the exports.
The committee has asked the Ministry of National Food Security to present a detailed briefing on wheat and sugar policies at its next meeting on September 24.
