Islamabad, May 22, 2025: In a groundbreaking move aimed at reshaping Pakistan’s sugar market, the Pakistan Mercantile Exchange (PMEX) has received the green light from the Securities and Exchange Commission of Pakistan (SECP) to roll out Deliverable Sugar Futures.
This marks a significant shift in how sugar will be priced, traded, and regulated—ushering in long-overdue transparency in one of Pakistan’s most crucial agro-industries.
The sugar industry in Pakistan, despite its economic weight, has been plagued for years by erratic pricing, speculative trading, hoarding, and a fragmented supply chain.
With the launch of Deliverable Sugar Futures at PMEX, market players will now have access to a centralized, regulated platform that supports real-time price discovery, efficient trading, better risk management, and digital recordkeeping.
This new contract is expected to bring a paradigm shift in how sugar is bought and sold in Pakistan—much like how wheat and rice futures modernized global agri-markets. Experts believe this could finally align Pakistan’s sugar trade with international standards.
In preparation for the launch, PMEX hosted awareness roadshows in key trading cities like Sargodha and Lahore, engaging directly with sugar mill owners, brokers, bulk buyers, and traders
. These sessions featured live demos, contract details, mock trading trials, and guidance on opening accounts—laying the groundwork for smooth adoption.
Commissioner Abdul Rehman Warraich of SECP and Punjab’s Secretary for Price Control & Commodities Management, Muhammad Ajmal Bhatti, both praised the initiative.
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They emphasized that regulatory and provincial support would remain steadfast in ensuring its success.
“Sugar is one of Pakistan’s most traded commodities, yet it lacks structure and transparency,” remarked PMEX CEO Khurram Zafar. “With Sugar Futures, PMEX is turning the tide—ushering in transparency, price stability, and a future where fair trade leads the way.
For context, countries like India and Brazil already have active sugar futures markets that contribute to price stability and farmer empowerment. Pakistan, by taking this step, is not only catching up but potentially opening doors for regional competitiveness in commodity trading.
