Govt to review provincial data before allowing urea export

ISLAMABAD, May 7, 2025: The Minister for National Food Security and Research has stated that any decision regarding the export of surplus urea fertilizer will only be made after a detailed assessment of domestic requirements for the upcoming Rabi and Kharif crop seasons for 2025–26.
Speaking during a meeting with ENGRO CEO Ali Rathore, the Minister emphasized that the Ministry would first collect comprehensive data from all provinces to determine the national demand for urea. “Only after confirming that available stock exceeds domestic requirements will the government consider allowing exports,” he said.
During the meeting, Rathore informed the Minister that the current urea stock in the country ranges between 800,000 and 1,000,000 tons—well above current consumption levels. He added that all fertilizer manufacturers are eager to export the surplus to help bolster Pakistan’s foreign exchange reserves.
Rathore also requested the government to ensure a consistent gas supply to ENGRO’s older fertilizer plants, citing it as critical for maintaining uninterrupted operations. In response, the Minister assured full cooperation and said the government is committed to addressing the gas supply issue sustainably.
While acknowledging that surplus urea exports could positively impact the economy, the Minister reaffirmed that domestic needs would remain the government’s foremost priority. He also underscored the importance of ensuring the timely availability of fertilizers to farmers and reaffirmed the government’s commitment to supporting agricultural development across the country.
Ends