In a major move aimed at stabilizing wheat and flour prices across Punjab, Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz today approved the procurement of wheat from the Pakistan Agricultural Storage and Services Corporation (PASSCO), directing authorities to ensure uninterrupted supply of the staple commodity and protect consumers from rising food costs.
The decision was taken during a high-level meeting chaired by the chief minister through video link in Lahore, where officials reviewed the province’s wheat stock position, market trends, flour production costs, and the challenges affecting price stability. The meeting focused on devising a comprehensive strategy to prevent fluctuations in wheat prices and maintain affordable rates for essential food items.
After detailed deliberations, the provincial government decided that wheat acquired from PASSCO would be supplied to flour mills at a subsidized rate of Rs3,300 per maund. Officials said the measure is intended to reduce production costs for flour millers, prevent unnecessary increases in flour prices, and ensure that bread and other wheat-based food products remain within the reach of ordinary citizens.
Briefing the chief minister, officials highlighted concerns regarding market uncertainty and stressed the need for timely intervention to avoid supply disruptions. They informed the meeting about existing wheat reserves, procurement arrangements, and projected demand in the coming months.
Maryam emphasized that ensuring food security and shielding the public from inflation remain among the government’s top priorities. She directed relevant departments to implement the wheat distribution plan in a transparent manner and ensure that the benefits of the initiative are passed on to consumers rather than absorbed by intermediaries.
The chief minister also instructed authorities to maintain close coordination with PASSCO, district administrations, and flour mill associations to guarantee a smooth supply chain and prevent bottlenecks that could affect the availability of flour in markets across the province.
Expressing concern over the possibility of artificial shortages and speculative trading, she ordered strict monitoring of wheat stocks and market prices. Relevant agencies were directed to take immediate action against hoarding, profiteering, and any attempts to manipulate prices for commercial gain.
Officials said the wheat procurement plan forms part of the Punjab government’s broader strategy to maintain stability in the food sector, strengthen market oversight, and provide meaningful relief to citizens facing economic pressures. The initiative is expected to help moderate wheat and flour prices while ensuring adequate supplies throughout the province.