· · 2 sources ·Updated

National Food Security Minister urges private firms to lower wheat seed prices

Federal Minister Rana Tanveer Hussain met with seed companies in Islamabad on Wednesday to discuss reducing costs for the upcoming Rabi season.

Rabi season: Wheat seed availability stands at 0.612MTs
File photo Rabi season: Wheat seed availability stands at 0.612MTs Photo: Business Recorder

Current seed stock levels remain low

Total wheat seed availability for the 2026-27 season currently stands at 0.612 million tons. This amount covers only 51 percent of the total national requirement of 1.192 million tons. Punjab holds the largest share with 0.553 million tons, while Sindh accounts for 0.041 million tons and other provinces have smaller quantities.

Government directs price reduction efforts

The minister instructed private seed companies to cut prices so that small farmers can afford inputs alongside fertiliser and irrigation costs. He emphasized that timely access to affordable seed is critical for purchasing decisions made by smaller agricultural operations. Officials also discussed ensuring smooth movement of seeds across provincial borders during the meeting.

Regulatory authority handles inter-provincial flow

NSDRA was tasked with guaranteeing uninterrupted supply chains to prevent shortages in specific regions. Coordination between federal and provincial authorities will be necessary to resolve any logistical difficulties. The government aims to support timely sowing through these strengthened research and multiplication programmes.

All 2 outlets report consistently

No differences in figures, names or dates across these reports.

  • Business Recorder
  • Dawn

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2 independent outlets. Headlines as published. Links open the original report.