Farmers and agricultural organisations have strongly criticised the Federal Budget 2026–27, arguing that it fails to address the key challenges facing Pakistan’s agricultural sector.
Representatives of farming communities stated that the budget does not include meaningful measures to reduce the cost of essential agricultural inputs.
According to farmers, no significant reductions have been announced in the prices of DAP and urea fertilisers, nor has the Government introduced a comprehensive subsidy policy for the agricultural sector.
They contend that rising prices of fertilisers, pesticides and agricultural chemicals have substantially increased production costs, placing considerable financial pressure on small and medium-sized farmers. As a result, many growers are struggling to maintain profitability and sustain agricultural operations.
Farmer leaders have argued that if the Government aims to increase agricultural productivity and strengthen food security, it must provide immediate subsidies on fertilisers, seeds and agricultural inputs. They believe such measures would reduce production costs and support the long-term sustainability of the sector.
Meanwhile, fertiliser and agricultural input dealers have also expressed concern over declining sales.
According to industry representatives, farmers previously purchased inputs in larger quantities, but rising costs and inflation have led to a noticeable reduction in demand.
Farmers have called on the Government to immediately reduce the prices of DAP and urea fertilisers and announce a dedicated relief package for the agricultural sector.
They maintain that such measures are essential to boosting agricultural production, supporting rural livelihoods and addressing the challenges faced by the farming community.
The criticism highlights ongoing concerns within the agricultural sector regarding rising input costs and the need for targeted policy measures to enhance productivity and economic stability in rural areas.
