The price of sugar in Lahore surged by Rs10 to Rs20 per kilogram, leaving residents frustrated and concerned.
The constant rise in sugar prices has become a source of worry for the public, with traders blaming the owners of sugar mills for the instability.
A local shopkeeper said, "Sugar mill owners are setting prices at their discretion." He further expressed fears that, during the upcoming Ramadan, sugar prices might escalate to Rs180 to Rs200 per kilogram.
Citizens in Lahore have expressed their concerns, with one local stating, "Buying sugar has become a necessity, and the government should take action against hoarders." Traders also pointed out that hoarders had already stockpiled sugar ahead of Ramazan.
– Sugar Mafia Uncontrolled in Faisalabad –
In Faisalabad, the sugar mafia has proven difficult to control, with the price of sugar in the open market increasing from Rs125 to Rs160 per kilogram over the past month and a half. This rise has led to frustration among the city's residents.
A citizen of Faisalabad shared, "The continuous price hike is unbearable. We are struggling to afford it." Meanwhile, sugar dealers have expressed concerns about further price increases, attributing them to speculative trading and exports. A local sugar dealer, stated, "The export of sugar and speculation are causing the prices to rise even further."
The district administration in Faisalabad has proven ineffective in controlling sugar prices, as confirmed by local sources.
– Sugar Prices Rise in Karachi –
Sugar prices in Karachi have also risen sharply. In the wholesale market, sugar is now being sold for Rs146 per kilogram, while the retail price has reached Rs155 per kilogram.
Both citizens and dealers have expressed concerns that, unless the government intervenes before Ramadan, sugar prices will rise even higher.
A local dealer in Karachi explained, "The increase in prices is due to a lack of planning and the rise in sugar exports." Meanwhile, a buyer worried, "If this is the situation now, I can’t imagine what will happen during Ramadan."
Sugar sellers and buyers alike have called on the government to take action ahead of Ramadan, urging measures to ensure affordable sugar prices during the holy month.
