Govt Warns Fertilizer Firms to Cut DAP Prices

Federal Minister Rana Tanveer Hussain has urged fertilizer companies to slash DAP prices, warning of government intervention to shield farmers and food security.

Staff Report

Federal Minister for National Food Security and Research Rana Tanveer Hussain on Wednesday called on fertilizer manufacturers to immediately lower diammonium phosphate (DAP) prices, citing the risk to farmers’ livelihoods and Pakistan’s food security.

Presiding over a Fertilizer Review Committee meeting in Islamabad, Hussain said recent price hikes had placed a severe burden on small-scale farmers, undermining their ability to purchase essential inputs for upcoming crop cycles.

Threat to Agriculture Output

He warned that unchecked increases in fertilizer costs would not only curb agricultural productivity but also reduce fertilizer companies’ own market share as demand falls. Affordable, high-quality fertilizers, he said, were critical for sustaining yields and meeting domestic food needs.

Industry Urged to Act

Hussain pressed manufacturers to reassess their pricing, adopt cost-saving measures, and collaborate with the government to bring rates to a “reasonable” level without compromising quality. He stressed that unjustified increases would not be allowed to derail the agriculture sector.Pakistan Fertilizer Sector: Sales Down, Profits Steady

“If the industry fails to respond, the government will explore alternative steps to protect farmers,” he added. The Fertilizer Review Committee will remain in close contact with all stakeholders and submit concrete proposals within a week to stabilize prices and secure uninterrupted fertilizer supplies nationwide.