PM Directs Search for Alternative Fertilizer Imports From Central Asia

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Tuesday directed authorities to explore alternative fertilizer supply sources from Central Asian countries amid concerns over possible disruptions in imports from Gulf nations.

Chairing a high-level meeting on food security and fertilizer stock availability, the prime minister stressed the need to accelerate projects aimed at establishing new fertilizer plants to strengthen local production capacity.

He said ensuring the timely supply of fertilizers to farmers must remain a top priority under all circumstances and emphasized that meeting the needs of the agricultural sector is essential for the country’s food security.

The prime minister instructed relevant ministries and institutions to maintain sufficient fertilizer stocks for both the Kharif and Rabi crop seasons and closely monitor supply conditions across the country.

He also warned that strict action would be taken against hoarding and the creation of artificial shortages in the fertilizer market.

Officials briefing the meeting informed the prime minister that uninterrupted natural gas supplies were currently being provided to fertilizer plants to sustain domestic production according to national demand.

Authorities further confirmed that adequate fertilizer stocks are available for the upcoming Kharif season. The meeting was attended by Minister for Food Security Rana Tanveer Hussain, Minister for Economic Affairs Ahad Cheema, Minister for Petroleum Ali Pervaiz Malik, Minister of State for Finance Bilal Azhar Kayani, Special Assistant to the Prime Minister on Industries Haroon Akhtar, and senior officials.

The government’s latest move comes as Pakistan faces rising concerns over regional supply chain disruptions linked to tensions in the Middle East and shipping uncertainties around the Strait of Hormuz, a key global trade route for energy and commodity supplies.

Officials and industry observers said diversifying fertilizer import sources and increasing local production capacity could help stabilize prices, avoid shortages, and ensure uninterrupted supplies for farmers during critical crop seasons.