Islamabad: Federal Minister for National Food Security and Research, Rana Tanveer Hussain, chaired a high-level meeting addressing fertilizer availability, pricing, and supply management, as provincial agriculture ministers, fertilizer manufacturers, importers, industry representatives, and senior officials convened to review the current situation and future preparations.

According to Press Information Department, the meeting focused on the availability of Urea and DAP fertilizers for the ongoing Kharif season and preparations for the upcoming Rabi season. Participants included representatives from Punjab, Sindh, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, and Balochistan, as well as major fertilizer companies and importers.

The Minister was informed that all ten fertilizer plants in the country are fully operational, with more than one million tonnes of Urea available in the market. Despite international price hikes and global market uncertainties, Pakistan has maintained stability in Urea prices, shielding farmers from severe price shocks observed elsewhere.

Reports of fertilizer price increases prompted the Minister to instruct companies and relevant authorities to monitor market conditions closely and prevent unjustified price hikes. He emphasized that transportation and operational costs should not burden farmers, cautioning against profiteering, hoarding, or artificial shortages.

Provincial representatives confirmed satisfactory Urea availability, though logistical issues in remote districts were noted. The Minister assured federal support to address these challenges and ensure smooth fertilizer distribution.

The meeting also reviewed the DAP fertilizer situation, noting sufficient current stocks but acknowledging potential challenges for the Rabi season due to international price rises and supply chain uncertainties. The Minister called for strict market oversight to protect farmers from speculative pricing.

Emphasizing DAP affordability, Punjab representatives proposed a national roadmap for DAP availability and pricing, urging proactive international supplier engagement and government cooperation to prevent future shortages.

The Federal Minister committed to discussing fertilizer supply issues at the highest governmental levels to formulate a coordinated national strategy aimed at ensuring availability and price stability during the Rabi season.

Participants concluded that national priorities must include fertilizer availability, affordability, and timely distribution, with ongoing coordination between the Ministry of National Food Security and Research, provincial governments, and industry stakeholders to safeguard farmers’ interests.