Introduction: Machines That Matter
For most people, a shiny new car is considered a symbol of success. But for a farmer, true triumph is defined by the machine he drives across his fields. The tractor, the harvester, the drill—these are not just tools but lifelines. In Pakistan, however, the machinery industry that fuels our “agrarian economy” remains crippled by outdated practices, poor policies, and chronic neglect.
Despite agriculture being the backbone of our economy, the sector is lagging behind in mechanization, leaving farmers to work harder but reap less. This blog explores the state of agricultural machinery in Pakistan, its challenges, and the urgent reforms needed to put Pakistani farming back on track.
The State of Mechanization in Pakistan
- Agriculture contributes 24% of Pakistan’s GDP and employs nearly 37% of the labor force.
- Yet, farm mechanization remains one of the weakest links.
- Growth has slowed to under 3% annually since 2000, compared to over 4% in earlier decades.
- Agricultural productivity per worker has been stagnant for 30 years, growing at just 0.7% per year—far below regional averages.
Key industry struggles include:
- Liquidity crunches: Tractor manufacturers like Millat Tractors have suspended operations due to stuck sales tax refunds (over Rs 8 billion).
- Supply chain gaps: Farmers often lack access to spare parts, maintenance, and reliable distribution channels.
- Policy missteps: Importing five-year-old tractors instead of investing in local manufacturing weakens local industry and drains foreign reserves.
Why Mechanization Matters
Farm machinery touches every step of cultivation:
✅ Land preparation → Tractors, power tillers
✅ Seeding & planting → Seed drills
✅ Crop management → Sprayers, irrigation systems
✅ Harvesting & threshing → Harvesters, threshers
✅ Post-harvest handling → Balers, shredders
Mechanization not only saves labor and input costs but also:
- Reduces post-harvest losses
- Improves yield per acre
- Enhances efficiency and sustainability
- Raises farmer income