Federal Government Decides to Import 750,000 Metric Tons of Wheat

ISLAMABAD: The federal government has decided to import 750,000 metric tons of wheat to address the risk of a potential shortage in the domestic market, according to officials.

The decision was taken in view of concerns over wheat availability and ensuring adequate supplies across the country.

According to officials, the deadline for opening bids for the wheat import tender has been set for September 16.

Companies that have previously been declared ineligible will not be allowed to participate in the tender.

Officials said all outstanding payments, along with applicable penalties, must be cleared before the tender is opened.

Companies against which the blacklisting process has already been initiated will also be barred from participating in the tender.

Of the 750,000 metric tons being imported, 300,000 tons will be allocated to Sindh.

Punjab will receive 250,000 tons, while 200,000 tons will be allocated to Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.

The provincial distribution is intended to strengthen wheat availability in areas where additional supplies may be required.

Pakistan’s annual wheat consumption is estimated at approximately 31.3 million metric tons.

According to the available figures, the country’s annual wheat production stood at around 29.61 million metric tons, creating a gap between domestic production and overall consumption.

The planned import of 750,000 metric tons is aimed at helping bridge the supply gap and preventing shortages in the domestic market.

The government is expected to continue monitoring wheat stocks and market conditions to ensure uninterrupted availability of the staple commodity.