Key Takeaways
- The Punjab government has initiated the release of wheat from official stocks at Rs3,800 per 40kg.
- PFMA welcomes the move but urges timely import decisions to avoid future shortages.
- Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz directs that essential food items remain affordable for low-income households.
The Punjab government has announced the commencement of a wheat release scheme aimed at stabilizing prices across the province. The official rate is set at Rs3,800 per 40kg, with plans to gradually reduce this price over time.
Amjad Hafeez, Director General Food for Punjab, stated that one million metric tonnes of wheat from PASSCO would be transferred to the Punjab Food Department to ensure sufficient availability. This move is part of a broader strategy to monitor market prices and take strict legal action against hoarders creating artificial shortages.
Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz has directed that wheat, flour, and bread prices should not increase under any circumstances, emphasizing their affordability for low-income households. The government’s goal is to keep these essential items within the purchasing power of the general public.
The Pakistan Flour Mills Association (PFMA) has welcomed the decision, with Chairman Asim Raza noting that current wheat prices are between Rs4,300 and Rs4,500 per maund in Punjab. This high price is leading to increased costs for flour production and higher bread prices, which PFMA believes will be alleviated by the release of official stocks.
However, Asim Raza also urged the government to take timely decisions regarding wheat imports, warning that Pakistan could face a potential flour shortage by December if adequate supplies are not secured. The PFMA is concerned about the possibility of artificial shortages and rising prices in the coming months.
The release of official wheat stocks will continue under close monitoring, with strict legal action promised against those involved in creating artificial shortages. The government’s comprehensive strategy aims to ensure a steady supply of essential food items while stabilizing market prices for consumers.
The official wheat release had commenced under the directives of the Punjab government and that the price had been fixed at Rs3,800 per 40kg, adding that the rate would be reduced further gradually with the passage of time.
Amjad Hafeez, Director General Food for Punjab
Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz has directed that wheat, flour and bread prices should not be allowed to increase under any circumstances and that these essential food items must remain within the purchasing power of the general public, particularly low-income households.
Maryam Nawaz, Chief Minister
However, he urged the government to also take a timely decision on wheat imports, warning that Pakistan could face a flour shortage by December if adequate supplies were not ensured.
Asim Raza, PFMA Chairman
