Wheat Import Plan Fails to Stabilise Domestic Market Prices

The federal government's decision to import one million tonnes of wheat and Punjab's early releases have failed to calm the domestic market, as supply concerns continue to loom.

Minister for National Food Security & Research Rana Tanveer Hussain announced the plan to import 1 million tonnes of wheat on July 24, aiming to stabilise wheat and flour prices nationwide. However, wholesale data gathered by provincial authorities from 12 key districts in Punjab indicates that this announcement has not provided any tangible relief to consumers.

Prices have consistently risen in various districts, with the official data showing a rise of 4-5.6 per cent within just one week. In Lahore, prices initially fell temporarily but then rose again by August 4, 2026, with wheat priced at Rs4,700 per 40kg and maida at Rs11,800 for an 80kg bag.

Analysts emphasize that until imported shipments actually arrive and are distributed, the market will continue to operate under tight conditions. The government's intervention has merely delayed a more significant price increase, but it has not altered the overall trend.