The government has set a target to cultivate rice over 3.39 million hectares across crop-producing areas during the Kharif season 2026–27 to meet domestic demand and boost exports.

ISLAMABAD, Apr 15 (APP): The government has set a target to cultivate rice over 3.39 million hectares across crop-producing areas during the Kharif season 2026–27 to meet domestic demand and boost exports.

An official from the Ministry of National Food Security and Research told APP on Wednesday that rice production is projected at 9.17 million tons for the upcoming season.

The government aims to generate an exportable surplus of major crops to strengthen agri-based exports and support the agriculture sector, he added.

He said maize will be cultivated over 1.5 million hectares, with a production target of 9.7 million metric tons.

Sugarcane production has been set at 80.3 million tons, to be grown on 1.14 million hectares, he added.

He further informed that cotton production is targeted at 9.64 million bales, with cultivation planned over 2.16 million hectares.

He said that the targets have also been fixed for minor crops, including mung, mash, and chilies, to meet local consumption needs.

Regarding input availability for Kharif 2026, the official said water availability at canal heads is expected to remain at 67.451 million acre-feet (MAF).

He added that rice and maize seed supplies will be sufficient, while urea availability is expected to remain comfortable due to adequate local production and existing stocks.

The allocation of institutional agricultural credit is projected to rise to Rs 3,062 billion in fiscal year 2026, marking a 19 percent increase from last year’s Rs 2,577 billion, he remarked.

He emphasized that the government is prioritizing agriculture to boost economic growth and improve livelihoods across the country.

Published Date: April 16, 2026