October 12, 2004

Pakistan Targets Wheat Output Of 20.15 Million Tons

Pakistan is targeting wheat production at 20.15 million metric tons in the current fiscal year that began July 1. This figure is up 3.3% from last year, a spokesman for the Ministry of Agriculture said Tuesday.

"I think this target is realistic and won't be affected by the water shortage," said Dr. Mohammed Hanif.

Recent rains have been less than expected.

Hanif said the country's wheat production last season totaled 19.5 million tons, short of a targeted 20 million tons.

Officials said the country needs between 20.4 and 20.8 million tons of wheat output to meet local consumption.

The government has imported 926,000 tons of wheat in two tenders from Australian, U.S. and Russian companies and plans to buy another 60,000-70,000 tons in a separate tender this month from Russia, Kazakhstan or Ukraine.

Pakistan is considering importing another one million tons to boost its reserves and ensure price stability.