Islamabad: Deputy Prime Minister Ishaq Dar has underscored the government’s commitment to safeguarding national food security and ensuring the availability of essential items at affordable prices. He made these remarks while chairing a high-level meeting of the Cabinet Committee in Islamabad, which was convened to assess the stock position, pricing, and supply of essential commodities.

According to Radio Pakistan, Deputy Prime Minister Dar instructed federal and provincial authorities to maintain strict vigilance over market networks, emphasizing that all organizations must adopt a zero-tolerance policy towards hoarding or market speculation. The meeting undertook a thorough review of national reserves, procurement frameworks, and local consumption and price trends.

During the meeting, it was reported that domestic stocks of daily essentials remain sufficient, contributing to stability in local supply. Regarding sugar, the committee was informed that the price in the domestic market was significantly below the targeted retail price of 155 rupees per kilogram, with surplus stock available until the next crushing season. For wheat, the committee was briefed that the domestic stocks, along with imported wheat, would be adequate until the next harvest. However, Deputy Prime Minister Dar expressed concern over the rising trend of wheat prices and directed both federal and provincial governments to take all necessary measures, including increasing the supply of wheat, to stabilize prices.