DPM reviews supply of essential commodities

ISLAMABAD, Oct 24 (APP):Deputy Prime Minister/Foreign Minister Senator Mohammad Ishaq Dar Saturday chaired a high-level meeting of the Cabinet Committee to review the stock position, pricing and supply of essential commodities.

The meeting conducted a comprehensive review of national reserves, procurement frameworks and local consumption and price trends. It was apprised that domestic stocks of daily essentials remain adequate, offering stability for local supply.

The committee was briefed that for wheat, the domestic stocks along with imported wheat, was sufficient till the next harvest. However, the DPM/FM expressed his concern over the rising trend of wheat prices and directed federal and provincial governments to take all necessary measures, including increase in supply of wheat, to stabilise prices. On sugar, the committee was briefed that price in the domestic market was well below the targeted retail price of Rs. 155 per kg, with surplus stock available till the next crushing season.

The DPM/FM emphasised that safeguarding national food security and ensuring the availability of essential items at reasonable prices is the government’s priority. He directed federal and provincial authorities to maintain vigilance over market networks and all organizations must show zero tolerance towards hoarding or market speculation.

The meeting was attended by the Minister for National Food Security & Research and Climate Change, SAPM Tariq Bajwa, Secretary National Food Security & Research and Commerce, Chief Secretaries of all provinces, and senior officials from relevant federal and provincial departments.