Wheat Production Forecast in Pakistan: Decline, but Stable Demand for Rice and Corn
Wheat production in Pakistan is expected to see a significant decline, projected to reach 27.5 million tons in 2025-2026, which is 13% lower compared to last season’s record levels. The main reasons for this decline are the reduction in wheat cultivation areas and the impact of dry weather. At the same time, rice production is expected to increase due to high export demand and a positive financial situation.
This is reported by AgroReview
According to the Foreign Agricultural Service (FAS) of the U.S. Department of Agriculture, wheat consumption in Pakistan is estimated at 31.9 million tons, slightly higher than the previous year. Meanwhile, wheat imports could amount to 1.7 million tons, but the final figure will depend on the harvest volume.
“As of March 2025, imports are prohibited, so the government will need to reauthorize imports and decide whether to allow private importers or the state-run Trading Corporation of Pakistan to handle imports,” the FAS report states.
The government has already begun implementing a strategy to liberalize the wheat market by removing price support for farmers and halting state purchases. Wheat and wheat flour prices in March 2025 were 35% lower than a year ago.
Situation with Rice and Corn
Rice production is projected to be 9.8 million tons in 2025-2026, with consumption at 4.2 million tons. Rice exports are expected to reach 5.8 million tons, driven by competitive prices in international markets and growing demand from Southeast Asian countries such as the Philippines and Malaysia.
Corn production in Pakistan is forecasted at 9.6 million tons, due to a slight increase in acreage and average yields. Corn consumption is estimated at 9.1 million tons. The poultry sector is the largest consumer of corn, but the ban on importing genetically modified soybeans has negatively impacted this industry.
“Traditionally, around 65% of corn consumption is for poultry feed, while wet milling and dairy feeds account for about 15% and 10%, respectively,” the report states.
Corn exports are expected to decline to 600,000 tons. “The final export level will depend on the final production volume, global corn prices, and the state of the domestic poultry industry,” the FAS adds.
Discussion on the Future of the Agricultural Sector
The further development of the grain and oilseed market in Ukraine and the Black Sea region will be discussed at the 23rd International Conference, which will take place on April 24 in Kyiv. Participants will have the opportunity to engage in strategic discussions and networking with industry leaders.