Islamabad – Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif’s Coordinator, Rana Ehsan Afzal has announced that the government is closely monitoring the recent surge in sugar prices and expects a decline within the next couple of days. In addition to export bans, the government is also taking steps like importing 500,000 tons of sugar to stabilize the market.
Speaking to the media, Afzal clarified that the government is actively addressing the issue and hopes to stabilize sugar prices soon. He pointed to increased exports and reduced domestic production—caused partly by changing weather conditions—as the main reasons behind the price hike.
Last season, Pakistan produced 6.8 million tons of sugar, which exceeded local demand. This led the government to allow exports after reserving 500,000 tons as buffer stock. However, this season’s output dropped to 5.8 million tons, one million tons below expectations.
Upon learning of the situation, the Prime Minister immediately ordered a ban on sugar exports. Unfortunately, by that time, a significant quantity had already been shipped abroad.
To prevent such crises in the future, PM Shehbaz Sharif has formed an investigative committee headed by Federal Minister Owais Leghari. This committee will compile a detailed report on the crisis. Meanwhile, local administrations and district commissioners (DCs) have been directed to monitor sugar prices and ensure market stability.
Afzal reassured the public that these government steps will soon restore sugar supply and bring prices back to normal levels.
It’s worth noting that, in a recent Public Accounts Committee meeting, it was revealed that the so-called “sugar mafia” profited over Rs 300 billion during this crisis. Furthermore, ongoing disputes between sugar dealers and mill owners continue to hamper supply in several cities.
