May 6, 2004

Pakistan Authorities Impose Ban On Wheat Export
 

The Pakistan Federal Cabinet Wednesday has imposed an immediate ban on the export of wheat to stop its smuggling, and directed the Ministry of Interior and the provincial governments to ensure its enforcement.

The Cabinet meeting chaired by Prime Minister Mir Zafarullah Khan Jamali, also decided that requirements of flour for the provinces would be fully met. The ongoing procurement drive would continue to achieve the targets in order to build up and further stabilize the country's wheat reserves.

Prime Minister Jamali said, "The requirements of the people of Pakistan take precedence over every other consideration." The Cabinet also directed the Federal and the Provincial agencies to safeguard the interests of the small growers by eliminating the role of middlemen who thrive on the compelling exigencies of the farmers.