Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Friday set the proposed (illustrative) price of wheat for 2027 at Rs4,500 per maund (40kg), an increase of Rs1,000 over last year’s price of Rs3,500.
According to a statement issued by the PM Office, the decision was taken in view of rising production costs and is aimed at boosting wheat output in the coming season.
The government said the increase is meant to provide relief to farmers facing higher input costs, rising petrol prices and inflationary pressure, while also giving them an effective incentive to grow wheat.
“The new proposed price is expected to help farmers cover their production costs and earn a reasonable profit,” the PM was quoted as saying.
The statement noted that farmers had faced financial difficulties in recent years due to inflation and higher agricultural expenses, and that Pakistan had to import wheat over the past two years.
The PM said the decision would strengthen national food security, encourage local production and bring stability to the agriculture sector.
The government expects the announced price to renew growers’ interest in wheat cultivation, leading to increased sowing and higher domestic production in the upcoming season.
According to the PMO, the decision was made under the guidance of President Asif Ali Zardari and PML-N President Nawaz Sharif, and in consultation with the chief ministers of Punjab and Sindh.
The PM specially thanked Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz for her proposals during the consultative process, and also expressed gratitude to Sindh Chief Minister Syed Murad Ali Shah for his cooperation.
The statement said the move would prove to be an important milestone in improving farmers’ economic well-being and making the country more self-sufficient in meeting its food requirements.