Pakistan intensifies measures to prevent fertilizer smuggling to Afghanistan

The Pakistani government is tackling the smuggling of urea to Afghanistan. According to sources, it has been spurred by significant price differences between those markets. The new resolution was reached during a recent meeting led by Rana Tanveer Hussain, the country’s minister of industries and production.

The Fertilizer Review Committee, while pleased with the current levels of fertilizer production and supply within Pakistan, expressed concerns over the cross-border smuggling activities, mainly from Pakistan’s northern regions. The committee highlighted the balanced supply and demand of urea for the 2024-25 Rabi cropping season, with fertilizer plants across the nation operating at optimal levels.

Despite the overall positive outlook, local reports highlighted the committee’s worries regarding the lower prices of urea in Pakistan compared to the global market. It emphasized the need for stringent measures to prevent smuggling to Afghanistan and further into Central Asia. The government has assured that there will be no shortage of fertilizer for the upcoming crop season, maintaining stable prices that will benefit local farmers and ensure a predictable market for all involved parties.

Minister Hussain praised the effective collaboration between the Power Division and the Fertilizer Committee, which has significantly boosted production. He has directed all fertilizer production units to operate at full capacity to prevent any potential shortfalls and meet seasonal demands. Additionally, the minister has called for strict actions against hoarding and illegal profiteering and has advocated for the modernization of fertilizer production facilities with advanced technologies to enhance overall efficiency and productivity.