NA panel seeks PM’s intervention as potato prices crash, farmers face losses

The National Assembly’s Standing Committee on National Food Security and Research has sought the intervention of Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif to address the ongoing potato crop crisis, calling on the government to take urgent steps to stabilise prices and protect farmers’ incomes, according to a news report. 

At a meeting held in Islamabad on Thursday, the committee, chaired by Syed Tariq Hussain, unanimously decided to write to the prime minister and request a meeting in the coming week to brief him on the severity of the situation and propose measures for timely action.

Committee members discussed the sharp decline in potato market prices despite high production costs, along with export constraints, the need for subsidy support and strategic interventions to safeguard growers’ economic interests. Several members urged the government to directly purchase potatoes from farmers at fair prices to prevent further financial distress and stabilise the market.

An official from the Department of Plant Protection told the committee that overall potato exports had increased compared to last year, adding that higher output this season was driven by favourable weather conditions. The Ministry of Commerce informed the panel that export-related issues raised by the Punjab government had been taken up with the relevant authorities.

Acknowledging the urgency of the matter, the committee directed the Ministry of National Food Security and Research to convene a joint meeting with the ministries of commerce and foreign affairs, the Punjab agriculture department, the National Logistics Cell, potato growers’ representatives and other stakeholders. The ministry was asked to submit a report to the committee by February 2.

Separately, the committee discussed the government’s proposed policy on deregulation of the sugarcane sector, focusing on protecting growers’ interests, ensuring timely procurement and crushing, and securing prompt payments. 

The Ministry of Industries and Production briefed members on steps taken so far, including engagement with provincial governments and enforcement actions against sugar mills.

The committee recommended that the Ministry of National Food Security and Research adopt a proactive approach, addressing crops currently under stress while planning ahead for upcoming seasons to ensure market stability, farmer protection and national food security.