Pakistan's Agricultural Sector Grapples with Rising Costs and Poor Productivity

Pakistan's agricultural sector is facing a growing crisis, with farmers struggling to remain profitable due to rising costs for fertiliser, electricity, diesel, machinery and labour.

The ongoing wheat price dispute is only one part of the problem, as prices for several crops have failed to provide adequate returns. Cotton, sugarcane, potatoes and other crops are also facing weather damage, pests and market uncertainty.

Agricultural productivity remains a major issue in Pakistan, with farmers relying on outdated farming methods, limited mechanization and inadequate access to improved seeds.

The country's food trade figures show growing pressure on the economy, with food imports rising 11.66 percent to $9.15 billion in FY26, while food exports fell 29.49 percent to $5.02 billion during the same period.