Pakistan’s Federal Committee on Agriculture (FCA) convened on October 29, 2024, to set ambitious production targets for the Rabi 2024-25 season. With wheat sowing in full swing, the federal government has called on provincial administrations to ensure uninterrupted input supplies and provide necessary support to farmers, aiming to maximize wheat cultivation and move towards agricultural self-sufficiency.
The agricultural sector has shown promising signs of progress. Between July and October FY2025, the import of agricultural machinery surged by 70.9%, reaching $39.6 million. This sharp increase reflects a commitment to modernizing the sector and equipping farmers with advanced tools to boost productivity.
In terms of fertilizer consumption, the Rabi season has seen a mixed trend. Diammonium Phosphate (DAP) offtake soared to 309,000 tonnes in October 2024, marking a significant 92.2% increase compared to the same period last year. This surge is largely attributed to initiatives like the Punjab Government’s interest-free loans, distributed through the Kissan Card program, which allows small farmers to procure essential agricultural inputs such as seeds and fertilizers.
Conversely, Urea offtake fell by 21.9%, totaling 358,000 tonnes during the same period. Analysts suggest that this decline could be due to shifts in fertilizer preferences, the availability of alternative inputs, or pricing dynamics in the market.
The government remains optimistic about achieving its wheat production targets for Rabi 2024-25. Encouraging signals include improved access to agricultural inputs and focused policy measures to empower farmers. These efforts are expected to ensure a steady supply of essential crops, reduce dependence on imports, and strengthen food security.
By fostering modernized farming practices and providing financial relief to small farmers, Pakistan’s agricultural policies are clearly geared towards achieving long-term self-sufficiency. The focus on efficient resource allocation, coupled with the support of provincial governments, underlines the commitment to revitalizing the sector as a cornerstone of the national economy.