Islamabad (TDI): Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has directed authorities to ensure uninterrupted availability of fertiliser to farmers and ordered strict monitoring of supplies amid growing concerns over potential disruptions linked to global supply chain pressures.
Chairing a meeting on food security and fertiliser reserves on Tuesday, the prime minister stressed that agricultural needs remain a top national priority to protect food security, according to a statement from the PM Office.
He instructed relevant ministries to prepare contingency plans for sourcing fertiliser from Central Asian countries in case disruptions persist in supplies from Gulf markets.
The move comes as global fertiliser markets face renewed pressure due to the impact of the Iran conflict, which has disrupted key shipping routes and production hubs in the Middle East. Rising input costs have added strain on farmers worldwide, while weak grain prices are limiting their ability to absorb higher expenses, raising concerns about future food production, APP reported.
The Gulf region, a major centre for fertiliser manufacturing, has seen reduced output and export flows. Supplies of urea from Qatar, one of the world’s largest producers, have been halted, while shipments of sulphur and ammonia have also been affected.
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Officials briefed the prime minister that sufficient fertiliser stocks are currently available for upcoming Kharif crops, while efforts are underway to secure adequate reserves for the Rabi season. The government is also working to expand domestic production through new fertiliser plants.
PM Shehbaz further directed strict action against hoarding and artificial shortages, warning against exploitation of farmers and stressing the need to stabilise market supplies.
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The meeting was attended by senior federal ministers and officials responsible for food security, energy, and economic planning.
