Islamabad, Mar 12, 2025: As sugar prices continue to surge during Ramadan, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has called an urgent meeting to address the issue and stabilize costs nationwide, according to sources reported by ARY News on Wednesday.
Authorities in Pakistan are gearing up for a large-scale crackdown on tax evasion in the sugar industry to maintain price control.
Measures are being put in place to eliminate fraudulent track-and-trace mechanisms within the sector. Officials are also preparing to act against the illegal reuse of tracking codes on sugar packaging.
Despite having ample sugar reserves that can sustain the country until October, prices remain at an all-time high, sources reveal.
As per reports, by February, approximately 56 million tonnes of sugarcane had been processed for crushing, leading to the production of 5.3 million tonnes of sugar by the mills.
The previous sugar stock stood at 950,000 tonnes, while sugar mills currently hold reserves ranging between 4 to 4.5 million tonnes.
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To counter soaring prices and offer relief to consumers, the federal government has decided to import raw sugar (Shakkar).
This strategic move aims to stabilize the market and curb price fluctuations.
A government-issued press release highlighted that importing raw sugar would contribute to reducing sugar prices across Pakistan.
Furthermore, refining and processing this imported raw sugar locally will help boost overall production, ensuring a steady supply in the coming months.
The primary objective behind this decision is to regulate market prices and ensure sugar remains affordable for consumers.
By implementing these measures, the government seeks to maintain price stability while ensuring an uninterrupted supply of sugar during Ramadan and beyond.
