By Farooq Awan

Wheat sowing reached 23.1 million acres for the Rabi 2025-26 season against the set target, while urea offtake increased by 12 percent, indicating improved input utilization and progress in crop development, according to the Monthly Economic Update & Outlook February 2026 released by the Ministry of Finance.

The report states that the wheat production target for the ongoing Rabi season has been set at 29.7 million tonnes. The sowing area of 23.1 million acres reflects significant coverage under wheat cultivation across major producing regions, supporting the production outlook for the crop.

Input availability played a key role in supporting agricultural activity during the season. Urea offtake recorded a 12 percent increase compared to the corresponding period last year, suggesting higher fertilizer usage by farmers to improve crop yields. The rise in fertilizer consumption reflects greater input application in wheat-growing areas during the Rabi season.

The report also notes growth in agricultural machinery imports. Imports of agricultural machinery increased by 10.5 percent to $76.8 million during July-January FY26. The increase indicates continued mechanization in the agriculture sector, contributing to productivity improvements and operational efficiency in farming practices.

The combined rise in cultivated area, fertilizer offtake, and machinery imports points to robust momentum in the crop sector during the current fiscal year. Strong wheat sowing progress and higher input usage indicate a favorable environment for agricultural output in FY26.

The expansion in farm mechanization, as indicated by higher machinery imports, also signals investment in modern farming techniques. Improved mechanization supports timely sowing and harvesting operations, which are critical for achieving production targets.

The 29.7 million tonne production target for wheat underscores the importance of the crop in ensuring domestic food availability. The progress in sowing and input utilization during Rabi 2025-26 suggests that agricultural operations are proceeding in line with planned targets.

Overall, the data presented in the report highlight steady agricultural activity during the ongoing Rabi season. The increase in wheat acreage, higher fertilizer offtake, and growth in machinery imports collectively indicate momentum in the agriculture sector as FY26 advances.

Credit: INP-WealthPk