Pakistans Wheat Crisis Exposes Flawed Food Policy

Pakistan is facing its third wheat crisis in recent years, despite claims of a satisfactory harvest in 2026. Flour prices continue to rise, and provincial governments are concerned about meeting supply needs.

The government's decision to permit wheat imports has exposed the contradictions of Pakistan's food policy. In reality, the crisis lies not in production but in policy.

The sharp reduction in public wheat procurement last year forced farmers to sell their wheat soon after harvest at prices below production costs. Without effective public procurement or adequate storage facilities, they had little bargaining power.

Private traders filled the vacuum, purchasing wheat cheaply and storing it in private warehouses until prices increased. Farmers suffered losses while consumers faced higher prices.