The recent agreement between the Pakistani government and fertiliser manufacturers signifies a significant step towards stabilising the country’s agricultural sector. By ensuring a consistent and affordable supply of gas from the Mari Gas Field to fertiliser plants, the government aims to regulate urea prices effectively. This move comes in response to unilateral price hikes by manufacturers, which threatened the livelihoods of farmers and the stability of the agricultural industry.
Under this agreement, the Ministry of Industries and Production will propose a plan to the Economic Coordination Committee for approval. This proposal outlines the provision of gas at a unified price, which would replace the previous system where fertiliser prices were determined solely by manufacturers. By taking control of gas pricing and supply, the government aims to protect farmers from sudden and unjustified price fluctuations in urea and other fertiliser products.
The fertiliser industry’s longstanding request for a unified gas supply from the Mari Gas Field underscores the importance of reliable energy sources for agricultural production. The proposed agreement not only addresses the immediate concern of stabilising urea prices but also lays the groundwork for long-term sustainability and growth within the industry.
If approved, this arrangement is expected to have far-reaching benefits. Farmers will have access to affordable fertilisers, ensuring the continuity of agricultural activities and safeguarding food security in the country. Additionally, the stability in urea prices could attract further investment in production capacity and energy-efficient technologies within the fertiliser sector.
Moreover, by reducing the dependency on imported urea through uninterrupted domestic gas supply, Pakistan can save valuable foreign exchange and strengthen its economic resilience. This initiative aligns with broader efforts to promote self-sufficiency and sustainability in key sectors, contributing to the overall development and prosperity of the nation.
Overall, the agreement to regulate gas supply and urea prices represents a collaborative effort between the government and industry stakeholders to address challenges in the agricultural sector while fostering growth and stability in Pakistan’s economy.
More at: Govt, fertiliser makers strike deal to regulate urea prices, ensure Mari gas supply (thenews.com.pk), Urea makers link price cut with gas supply – Business – DAWN.COM, Urea prices likely to fall (tribune.com.pk)
