Government vows crackdown on wheat hoarding and price manipulation

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Wheat Board confirms sufficient wheat stocks nationwide as federal and provincial authorities prepare strict action against hoarding and unjustified price hikes.

Pakistan has sufficient wheat stocks to meet domestic demand, and there is no wheat shortage anywhere in the country, according to the Federal Government.

Authorities have also pledged strict action against hoarding and artificial price increases to protect consumers and maintain market stability.

The assurance came during the 9th meeting of the Wheat Board, chaired by Federal Minister for National Food Security and Research Rana Tanveer Hussain.

The meeting reviewed key issues related to wheat production, availability, procurement, stock levels, and prevailing market prices across the country.

Senior officials from the Ministry of National Food Security and Research attended the meeting alongside the Chief Secretaries of Punjab and Sindh, provincial agriculture and food secretaries, representatives of the Pakistan Flour Mills Association, and other stakeholders from the wheat sector.

During the session, provincial representatives unanimously informed the Board that wheat supplies remain adequate across all regions. They confirmed that there is no shortage of wheat and that sufficient stocks are available to meet consumer requirements.

Rana Tanveer Hussain described the current wheat outlook as highly encouraging, highlighting that Pakistan’s wheat production for the current season is estimated to be 1.36 million metric tonnes higher than last year.

He said the increase in output reflects positive agricultural performance and strengthens the country’s food security position.

Following a comprehensive review, the Wheat Board unanimously concluded that the national wheat production target has been achieved. The Board also expressed confidence that existing reserves are sufficient to support market demand and maintain supply stability.

Participants stressed the importance of effective market management and continuous monitoring of wheat prices. They emphasized the need for stronger coordination between federal and provincial governments to ensure smooth distribution and prevent market disruptions.

The federal minister reiterated that safeguarding consumer interests remains a top government priority. He stated that the federal and provincial governments will jointly implement administrative and legal measures to curb hoarding, improve market surveillance, and ensure wheat remains available at affordable prices.

Rana Tanveer further directed relevant authorities to enhance coordination, strengthen oversight mechanisms, and take immediate action against any activities that disrupt wheat supply chains or cause unjustified increases in wheat prices across Pakistan.