Pakistan Seeks Emergency Wheat Import Amid Rising Prices

The Pakistani government has announced plans to import one million tonnes of wheat in response to rising prices and a supply-demand gap in the country's staple grain market. The decision was made after deliberations with provincial governments, with Federal Minister for National Food Security and Research Rana Tanveer Hussain stating that it will help stabilize wheat and flour prices across the country.

The average wheat price has risen to Rs. 4,611 per 40kg (Rs. 115 per kg) in July, up from Rs. 4,516 a week earlier, while flour prices have also increased to Rs1,288 per 10kg (Rs129 per kg). The shortfall was flagged as early as April 29, 2026, with estimates of the actual deficit varying significantly.

The Progressive Flour Millers Group has projected a wheat shortfall of 2.5 million tonnes for the ongoing season, while an official assessment paints a similarly concerning picture, estimating a total wheat demand of 34.33 million tonnes and availability of 31.78 million tonnes, resulting in a deficit of approximately 2.55 million tonnes.