Pakistan sets Kharif targets, wheat at 29.31 million tonnes, cotton at 9.64 million bales

Pakistan’s wheat production for the Rabi 2025–26 season is estimated at 29.31 million tonnes cultivated over 9.385 million hectares, the Federal Committee on Agriculture (FCA) was informed on Tuesday. 

The committee, chaired by Minister for National Food Security and Research Rana Tanveer Hussain, reviewed Rabi crop performance and set production targets for the upcoming Kharif 2026–27 season.

Among Rabi crops, onion output was estimated at 2.7 million tonnes from 163,750 hectares, slightly lower than last year. Tomato production stood at 555,720 tonnes from 41,990 hectares, down 11.9% due to reduced cultivated area.

Potato production rose to 12.17 million tonnes from 466,560 hectares, reflecting a 23.2% increase year-on-year, while gram output was projected at 262,030 tonnes from 782,240 hectares, up 52.4%.

For the Kharif season, the FCA set rice production at 9.17 million tonnes over 3.39 million hectares and maize at 9.77 million tonnes over 1.5 million hectares. Sugarcane output is targeted at 80.3 million tonnes on 1.14 million hectares, while cotton production is projected at 9.64 million bales over 2.16 million hectares.

Water availability at canal heads is expected to reach 67.45 million acre-feet during the Kharif season. The Pakistan Meteorological Department said recent rainfall has improved conditions, although soil moisture remains under pressure following earlier dry periods.

Officials said expected rains in April and May, along with rising temperatures in northern areas, could improve reservoir levels, though isolated weather events may affect Rabi harvesting in some regions.

The committee emphasised efficient water use, particularly in lower regions, while noting that seed availability for rice and maize is sufficient and urea supplies remain adequate due to domestic production and existing stocks.

The State Bank of Pakistan projected agricultural credit to increase to Rs3.06 trillion in FY2026, up 19% from Rs2.58 trillion last year.

The minister said improving per-acre yields remains critical for food security, adding that while availability is stable, affordability continues to be a concern for low-income households.

The committee expressed satisfaction with the overall food situation and stressed the need for improved research and coordination to sustain growth in the agriculture sector.