Addressing Food Security in Pakistan Amidst Double-Digit Inflation

Addressing Food Security in Pakistan Amidst Double-Digit Inflation

Food security remains a significant issue in Pakistan, where double-digit inflation strains households and the agriculture sector. Recent data from the Pakistan Bureau of Statistics (PBS) shows food inflation averaging over 35% in the first half of fiscal year 2024. This rise has weakened citizens’ purchasing power and exposed inefficiencies in crop and supply chain management.

Essential items like wheat, rice, cooking oil, and vegetables are now beyond reach for many families. Lower-income households are most affected, as they spend a large portion of their income on basic needs. A World Bank report estimates over 40% of Pakistan’s population faces food insecurity. Malnutrition is also rising, particularly among children. According to the United Nations Food and Agriculture Organisation (FAO), nearly 38% of children under five now suffer from stunted growth.

Rural communities, especially in Sindh and Balochistan, face the worst of this crisis. The National Nutrition Survey 2023 reveals that many families in these regions must cut back on both the quantity and quality of their food. Micronutrient deficiencies are widespread, increasing health risks. The World Food Programme (WFP) warns that if food inflation remains unchecked, an additional five million Pakistanis could slip into extreme poverty by year-end.

Challenges in the Agriculture Sector

Agriculture, which makes up 19.2% of Pakistan’s GDP and employs nearly 40% of the workforce, has not shielded the country from food insecurity. Inefficiencies in crop management have worsened food inflation. Erratic weather, limited irrigation, and outdated farming methods have all impacted crop yields. For instance, the State Bank of Pakistan (SBP) reported a 4.7% drop in wheat production in 2023-24, with rice and sugarcane yields also falling.

Reliance on traditional farming methods further restricts productivity, limiting the ability to meet growing demand. The FAO estimates Pakistan loses 15-20% of its annual crop production due to poor handling and storage. These issues lead to price volatility, as shortages drive market prices up.

Government Initiatives to Address Food Security

To tackle food insecurity, the government has introduced multiple initiatives aimed at stabilizing prices. In response to wheat shortages, Pakistan approved the import of two million tonnes of wheat for 2023-24 and raised the minimum support price (MSP) to Rs4,000 per 40 kg. This policy encourages local production and boosts farmers’ earnings.

Additionally, the Prime Minister’s Kissan Package, launched in late 2023, dedicates Rs1.8 trillion to assist farmers and increase productivity. This package includes subsidies for fertilizers, interest-free loans for small farmers, and incentives for mechanized farming. The government has also introduced crop insurance to help farmers manage losses from climate-related events like floods and droughts.

Efforts to combat malnutrition have also taken shape. The Ehsaas Nashonuma/Benazir Nashonuma program provides monthly stipends and nutritional supplements to mothers and children. In collaboration with the WFP, this initiative targets vulnerable populations and aims to reach seven million people by the end of 2024.

Collaborating with International Partners

To achieve long-term food security, Pakistan has partnered with international organizations like the FAO and the World Bank. These collaborations promote climate-smart agriculture, improved storage infrastructure, and advanced irrigation techniques, all essential for maximizing crop yields.

One persistent challenge is the lack of cold storage facilities, which leads to high food waste. The Pakistan Horticulture Development and Export Company (PHDEC) estimates that up to 40% of perishable goods spoil due to inadequate storage. Developing modern storage facilities and logistics could reduce these losses and help stabilize prices.

The National Food Security Policy is another crucial step, focusing on increasing productivity, reducing post-harvest losses, and enhancing food distribution networks. This policy also encourages adopting modern technologies like drip irrigation and precision agriculture, improving efficiency and resilience.

Conclusion: Moving Forward

The government has made strides to address food security issues, but more work remains to prevent further price spikes. Investment in technology, infrastructure, and climate-resilient crops is essential for stable food prices and affordable nutrition. Additionally, improved market regulation, transparent distribution channels, and reduced price manipulation could protect consumers from future shocks.

Effective collaboration between the government, private sector, and international organizations will be vital for sustainable food security. By tackling structural inefficiencies and ensuring fair access to food, Pakistan can lessen the impact of food inflation and build a stable food system for future generations.