Pakistan’s plan to import up to 1 million metric tons of wheat is facing uncertainty as Punjab and other provinces have reportedly stopped short of submitting fresh demands, according to sources.

The federal government has decided in principle to import up to 1 million metric tons of wheat to address supply concerns, with the import bill potentially reaching $340 million.

The issue was discussed at a review meeting held on Sunday under the chairmanship of the Federal Minister for National Food Security. Senior federal and provincial officials, along with representatives of PASSCO and the Trading Corporation of Pakistan (TCP), attended the meeting.

Sources said the meeting ended without a final decision on wheat imports.

Punjab and other provinces are reportedly reluctant to provide written demands for additional wheat beyond the quantities available from the Pakistan Agricultural Storage and Services Corporation (PASSCO).

The federal government has consequently instructed provinces to meet their requirements from PASSCO stocks where possible.

PASSCO held around 1.783 million metric tons of wheat as of the first week of July, according to sources.

Provincial authorities have, however, reported significant shortages in their strategic wheat reserves. The shortfall has raised concerns about maintaining uninterrupted supplies and prompted the federal government to consider additional imports.

The proposed import of up to 1 million metric tons is being assessed in light of provincial requirements and available domestic stocks. The government estimates that importing the wheat could cost around $340 million.

The Economic Coordination Committee (ECC) has already formed a steering committee headed by the Deputy Prime Minister to oversee the wheat import issue.

Further discussions are expected as the government evaluates provincial requirements, PASSCO inventories and the potential need for imported wheat.