Caretaker Minister for National Food Security & Research Dr Kausar Abdulla Malik on Monday underscored the need for a unified supply chain coupled with a strong regulatory framework to discourage artificial hikes in the prices of food items in the country.
He chaired a meeting of the Agriculture Policy Institute and was also briefed by Director General Abdul Karimon the function of the Institute and its ongoing projects, said a press release.
The minister was informed that the API analyzed the impact of important agricultural policies on groups such as consumers, processors, and exporters and advises on policy adjustments needed for greater efficiency and equity in the country.
Dr Kausar Malik said that the Agriculture Policy Institute should work on a unified comprehensive plan for the food supply chain in consultation with provinces which would pave the way for the control of artificial hike in food prices.
The increase in food prices is the result of a mismatch in demand and supply or hoarding due to weak regulatory frameworks, he said adding that API should come forward with a proposal to activate the Food Security Advisory Council to serve as a bridge between the federation and provinces on the impact of important agricultural policies with special focus on food prices.—APP
