Pakistan approves 1m tonnes wheat imports
Pakistan’s strategic wheat reserves have fallen to critically low levels, with the stocks held by the Pakistan Agricultural Storage and Services Corporation (PASSCO) reportedly almost exhausted.
The shortage has emerged despite the International Monetary Fund (IMF) allowing the government to procure wheat. Federal and provincial authorities, however, were unable to secure sufficient quantities, resulting in a sharp decline in PASSCO’s strategic reserves.
The situation has raised concerns about maintaining adequate wheat supplies and meeting future requirements. PASSCO plays an important role in maintaining strategic stocks that can be used to support food security during periods of shortage.
In response to the declining reserves, the Economic Coordination Committee (ECC) has approved the import of one million tonnes of wheat.
The government has also formed a steering committee to oversee the process and ensure that all necessary requirements are completed before the imported wheat is brought into the country.
Officials said the import process will be subject to several conditions. These include pre-shipment inspection to verify the quality and quantity of wheat before it leaves the exporting country.
Another major condition requires provincial governments to arrange and provide the funds needed to meet their respective wheat requirements.
The latest decision comes as authorities seek to strengthen wheat availability and prevent a potential supply gap. The import plan is expected to help rebuild stocks after the depletion of PASSCO’s strategic reserves.
The steering committee will monitor the required procedures and coordinate with the relevant federal and provincial authorities. Its role will include ensuring that the conditions attached to the wheat import decision are fulfilled.
The development highlights the importance of timely wheat procurement and strategic stock management. Any delay in rebuilding reserves could create additional pressure on the country’s food supply system, particularly if domestic availability remains insufficient.
