Rawalpindi: A meeting of the Pakistan Flour Mills Association was held under the chairmanship of Central Senior Vice Chairman Tariq Sadiq here on Saturday, in which representatives of flour mills from across Punjab participated, says a press release.
The meeting discussed in detail the decision taken by the Punjab government regarding the supply of wheat to flour mills. Participants expressed serious concern over the policy and stated that the announcement made by the Punjab government regarding the release of wheat stocks was not in line with ground realities.
The meeting noted that the government had earlier assured the flour milling industry of the availability of wheat at reasonable rates, but the recent policy decision has created uncertainty. Participants pointed out that under the new arrangements, flour mills would have to purchase wheat from open markets and godowns, which would significantly increase transportation and other costs. As a result, flour prices are likely to rise, directly affecting the common consumer.
Flour mill owners stressed that flour is a basic necessity and any increase in its price would place an additional burden on the public. They warned that if the current policy continues, several small and medium-sized flour mills may be forced to shut down, leading to unemployment and disruption in flour supply.
The meeting further stated that Punjab is the largest wheat-producing province, yet flour mills are facing difficulties in accessing wheat. Participants said that the Punjab Food Department has sufficient wheat stocks, but despite this, mills are being compelled to rely on private traders, which could encourage hoarding and price manipulation.
The association demanded that the Punjab government immediately review its wheat policy and ensure the transparent and timely release of wheat to flour mills. It was also demanded that, for the flour year 2025-26, wheat quotas should be issued to all flour mills across Punjab without discrimination.
