Lahore: The Seed Association of Pakistan has raised alarms over a potential wheat seed shortage, urging immediate government intervention to prevent a crisis in the agricultural sector. During a press conference at the Lahore Chamber of Commerce and Industry (LCCI), the association highlighted that flawed policies are threatening the nation's food security.

Punjab's seed companies are responsible for 90 percent of the national seed supply, producing 516,000 metric tons out of the country's total 552,000 metric tons. However, restrictions on the movement of wheat seed to other provinces by the Punjab Agriculture Regulatory Authority (PERA) and the Food Department are exacerbating an already severe shortage, according to Rana Salman Mahmood Khan, Chairman of the Seed Association of Pakistan.

LCCI President Faheem-ur-Rehman Saigol assured the Seed Association of the chamber's support and emphasized the need for government action to address the issue. He warned that without intervention, the supply suspension could significantly reduce wheat production nationwide.

The Seed Association has sought urgent meetings with key officials and reached out to national leaders, including President Asif Ali Zardari and Prime Minister Mian Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif, but has yet to receive a response. The association also appealed to Field Marshal General Asim Munir to ensure timely seed supply, underscoring wheat's crucial role in the country's food security.

Former LCCI President Mian Anjum Nisar echoed the need for swift government measures to facilitate timely wheat cultivation.