Islamabad – June 30, 2025: In an effort to curb rising inflation and ensure price stability, the federal government has approved the import of up to 500,000 tonnes of sugar, the Ministry of Commerce announced on Sunday.
The decision was taken during a high-level meeting chaired by Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, following warnings from market regulators and consumer protection bodies over potential sugar shortages and speculative price hikes in the coming months.
Key Objectives of the Import Decision
According to officials:
- The primary goal is to maintain affordable retail prices of sugar, particularly ahead of Ashura and post-Muharram demand spikes
- The imported sugar will boost domestic supply, easing pressure on wholesalers and reducing opportunities for hoarding
- The government aims to ensure strategic reserves remain intact and ready for emergency release if market volatility continues
“This is a preemptive move to stabilize prices and protect consumers from artificial inflation,” said a Ministry of Industries official.
Trade and Procurement Mechanism
The import will be managed by government-owned trading entities, including TCP (Trading Corporation of Pakistan). The government is expected to negotiate deals with friendly countries and international suppliers for the most competitive rates.
Customs and taxation departments have also been directed to ensure fast-track clearance at ports to prevent delays.
Market Reaction and Price Trends
Sugar prices have remained volatile in local markets, with fluctuations due to:
- Speculation over crop output forecasts
- Delayed crushing seasons in key sugarcane-producing areas
- Global commodity price instability
Following the import announcement, wholesale sugar prices showed a downward trend, offering temporary relief to consumers.
Industry Concerns
Some domestic sugar millers have expressed concerns about the import, claiming it may affect local industry margins and procurement from farmers. However, government officials maintain that the import volume will be carefully timed to balance both consumer affordability and industry sustainability.
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