Govt Presses Fertilizer Firms for DAP Price Cut
Federal Minister Rana Tanveer Hussain has urged fertilizer firms for DAP price cut, warning of government action to protect farmers and food security.
Staff Report
Federal Minister for National Food Security and Research Rana Tanveer Hussain on Wednesday urged fertilizer companies to urgently reduce the price of diammonium phosphate (DAP) to safeguard farmers’ livelihoods and national food security.
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Chairing a meeting of the Fertilizer Review Committee in Islamabad, Hussain said the recent surge in DAP prices had become a “serious obstacle” for small-scale farmers, who form the backbone of Pakistan’s agriculture sector.Engro Urea Sales Down, Demand Slumps
Impact on Farmers and Productivity
The Minister warned that soaring input costs were eroding farmers’ purchasing power, leading to reduced crop productivity and long-term risks to the agricultural economy. He also cautioned that high prices could eventually hurt fertilizer companies by shrinking demand.
Call for Industry Cooperation
Hussain urged manufacturers to review pricing structures, cut operational costs, and work with the government to ensure quality fertilizers at affordable rates. He stressed that no unjustified price hikes would be tolerated and hinted at potential intervention if the industry fails to cooperate.
“If companies do not respond positively, the government will consider alternative measures to protect farmers,” he said. The Fertilizer Review Committee has been tasked with submitting actionable recommendations within a week to stabilize prices and guarantee uninterrupted supply during the critical sowing season.
