The price of sugar has soared to record levels across Pakistan, with rates reaching up to Rs195 per kilogram in certain cities, sparking concern among consumers and prompting swift action from the federal government.
According to market reports, the highest sugar price has been recorded in Islamabad at Rs195 per kg, while residents of Rawalpindi, Karachi, and Peshawar are also paying Rs190 per kg. In Quetta, the price stands at Rs186, followed by Khuzdar and Sialkot where sugar is being sold at Rs185 per kg.
In southern and central regions, prices remain steep. Hyderabad, Bahawalpur, Multan, and Bannu are witnessing rates of Rs180 per kg, while in Sukkur and Larkana, sugar is being sold at Rs175 per kg, marking a significant jump in retail prices nationwide.
Govt decides to import sugar to stabilise prices
In response to the surge in prices and growing public frustration, the government has decided to import 750,000 metric tons of sugar. According to officials from the Ministry of National Food Security, the decision aims to stabilize domestic markets and address the ongoing shortage.
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As part of this strategy, the federal cabinet has given in-principle approval for the import of 500,000 metric tons of refined sugar and is also expected to approve an additional 250,000 metric tons of raw sugar in the coming days.
Exports blamed for local shortages and inflation
Interestingly, the crisis follows a period of aggressive sugar exports. From July to May, Pakistan exported more than 765,000 metric tons of sugar, earning over Rs112 billion in revenue. Officials confirm that exports surged by over 22% compared to the previous year.
However, this export boom has now been linked to a shortage in the local market, contributing to the rapid rise in retail sugar prices across the country.
A day ago, the federal government decided to import 500,000 tonnes of sugar, as per the Ministry of National Food Security and Research.
Dismissing reports of a sugar shortage, the ministry clarified that Pakistan currently has adequate sugar stocks to meet domestic demand. “The impression that there is not enough sugar for public consumption is entirely baseless,” a ministry spokesperson said in a statement.
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The ministry explained that the decision to allow sugar exports last season was made only after confirming an excess of reserves. Officials also reiterated that no subsidy was offered on the exported sugar — a key difference from past practices.
“The recent decision to import sugar is solely for price stabilization and public convenience, not because of a shortage,” the statement added. “The presence of additional stocks will help in balancing market forces.”
The ministry also addressed recent media reports suggesting instability in the agricultural commodities market, calling them “inaccurate and misleading.” Officials clarified that the sale and purchase of agricultural products are based on seasonal cycles, not financial years.
