Pakistan’s agriculture sector demonstrated resilience by recording a 2.89% growth during FY2025-26, according to the Economic Survey of Pakistan 2025-26, despite facing the devastating impact of the 2025 monsoon floods. The sector had grown by only 1.53% during the previous fiscal year, making this year’s performance a significant improvement.
Agriculture remains the backbone of Pakistan’s economy, contributing 23.4% to the national GDP and providing employment to 33.1% of the country’s workforce. The survey credited government interventions, policy support, and improved planning mechanisms for helping the sector recover from flood-related disruptions.
The crop sector returned to positive territory, registering 1.44% growth after contracting by 1.01% a year earlier. Among major crops, sugarcane emerged as the strongest performer with production increasing by 6.2% to 89.45 million tonnes. Wheat production also rose by 4.3% to 29.61 million tonnes, supported by better access to certified seeds, fertilizers, and policy initiatives. Rice production climbed 2.8% to 9.99 million tonnes, despite reduced cultivation areas, due to higher productivity.
However, challenges remained. Cotton production declined by 0.5%, while maize output fell 2.7%, largely due to flood damage and shifts in crop preferences among farmers. Meanwhile, other crop categories posted encouraging growth, particularly pulses, vegetables, and fruits.
The livestock sector, which accounts for the largest share of agricultural value addition, expanded by 3.75%, with increases in milk and meat production. Poultry continued to play a vital role, supporting employment and strengthening domestic food supplies.
The survey highlighted the importance of strengthening food security, modernizing agricultural practices, and promoting export-oriented growth to sustain momentum. While the sector’s recovery reflects resilience and effective policy support, continued investment in climate adaptation and agricultural innovation will be essential to address future challenges.
