Govt Vows to Protect Farmers with Affordable Fertilizers

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Federal Minister for Industries and Production Rana Tanveer Hussain announced the government’s commitment to safeguarding farmers’ interests by ensuring timely and affordable fertilizer supplies ahead of the cropping season.

On August 9, 2025, Federal Minister for Industries and Production Rana Tanveer Hussain reaffirmed the Pakistani government’s dedication to supporting farmers by prioritizing the availability of fertilizers at reasonable prices for the upcoming cropping seasons. Speaking at a press conference in Islamabad, he emphasized that the government is taking concrete steps to address farmers’ concerns amid rising input costs, as reported by The News International. This commitment comes as farmers face challenges from fluctuating global fertilizer prices, which have strained agricultural budgets.

The minister outlined measures to stabilize fertilizer supply chains, including coordination with domestic manufacturers and importers to prevent shortages. He assured that the Ministry of Industries and Production (MOIP) is working to maintain adequate stocks of urea and other essential fertilizers, critical for crops like wheat and rice. Hussain highlighted that the government has allocated subsidies through the Ministry of Finance to keep prices affordable, with an estimated 100 billion Pakistani Rupees (PKR) dedicated to agricultural support this fiscal year. This follows a 2024 initiative where 90% of fertilizer subsidies reached smallholder farmers, boosting yields, according to The Express Tribune.

Hussain also addressed concerns about market manipulation, vowing to crack down on hoarding and profiteering. He stated that the government is collaborating with the Ministry of Agriculture (MOA) to monitor distribution networks, ensuring fertilizers reach farmers without inflated costs. The minister cited a recent meeting with the Fertilizer Manufacturers of Pakistan Advisory Council (FMPAC), where stakeholders agreed to prioritize supply to rural areas, as noted by Business Recorder. This move aims to support Pakistan’s 8 million farming households, particularly in Punjab and Sindh, where 70% of the country’s crops are grown.

Farmers have welcomed the government’s focus but urged swift implementation. Muhammad Aslam, a farmer from Faisalabad, emphasized the need for timely delivery to avoid planting delays, as quoted by Dawn. The government’s efforts align with its broader goal of ensuring food security and economic stability, with Hussain pledging ongoing support to protect farmers’ livelihoods and maintain agricultural productivity.