The Punjab government has called an urgent meeting to expand wheat procurement quotas for private aggregators as it struggles to meet its 3 million-ton target for the 2026–27 procurement season, officials said.

According to sources, the current pool of approved buyers remains insufficient to achieve the target. Out of 35 authorised aggregators, only 10 are actively participating, with their combined quotas covering about 1.8 million tons, leaving a significant gap in procurement.

The situation has been further complicated by banks’ reluctance to extend financing to new entrants, limiting broader participation in the procurement process, officials added.

In response, the provincial government is seeking additional commitments from private players to purchase wheat beyond their allocated quotas. Officials said some aggregators have shown interest, with two reportedly committing to procure 1 million tons each and another 0.5 million tons. Procurement is expected to continue until June 15 as authorities attempt to bridge the gap ahead of the deadline.

Both federal and provincial authorities have already introduced measures to reduce risks for buyers, agreeing to absorb price fluctuations and guarantee the purchase of unsold wheat stocks to encourage participation.

Officials said aggregators will be offered profit margins ranging from 10 to 16 per cent, depending on the timing of procurement, while banks may also ease cash margin requirements to improve access to financing.

Despite these incentives, concerns persist among stakeholders. Farmers have criticised delays and policy inconsistencies, arguing that the official support price of Rs3,500 per 40kg is not viable under current market conditions.

With harvesting already more than 50 per cent complete in South Punjab and expanding in central districts, delays in procurement arrangements could disrupt the supply chain and impact farmer incomes, they warned.