Islamabad, Mar 18 2025: CCP Tracks Sugar Crisis, Vows Action against Cartels.The Competition Commission of Pakistan (CCP) announced on Tuesday.
That it is actively monitoring the ongoing CCP Tracks sugar crisis and warned that strict action will be taken if any unfair market practices are detected.
The commission emphasized its commitment to ensuring fair competition and preventing anti-competitive behavior in the sugar industry.
The CCP has been working to curb cartelization in the sugar sector, aiming to promote transparency and protect consumers from artificial price hikes.
In 2020, the commission launched an investigation that uncovered evidence suggesting that sugar mills, with the involvement of the Pakistan Sugar Mills Association (PSMA).
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This led to raids on PSMA offices as part of the inquiry. Following the investigation, the CCP imposed a historic fine of PKR 44 billion on various sugar mills and PSMA in August 2021 one of the largest penalties in the commission’s history.
The CCP has played a crucial role in advocating for transparency in the sugar industry. In 2009, its initial inquiry found indications of PSMA’s involvement in price-fixing and production control
Leading to show-cause notices issued to certain sugar mills and PSMA in 2010. However, the Sindh High Court later put a hold on these proceedings.
Over the years, the CCP has released multiple policy recommendations (in 2009, 2012, and 2021) advising the federal and provincial governments to reduce market distortions.
Some key proposals included deregulating the sugar sector, allowing market-driven pricing, and removing restrictions on sugar mill expansions to encourage competition.
