The Punjab government has officially fixed the ex-mill and retail rates of sugar for the next four months to stabilise prices and protect consumers from further inflation.
According to a notification issued by the Punjab Cane Commissioner, sugar prices will now be regulated in a phased manner from July 15 to November 14, with different rates applicable each month.
Official sugar prices announced
As per the notification:
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From July 15 to August 14:
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Ex-mill price: Rs165 per kg
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Retail price: Rs177 per kg
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From August 15 to September 14:
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Ex-mill price: Rs166 per kg
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Retail price: Rs176 per kg
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From September 15 to October 14:
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Ex-mill price: Rs179 per kg
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Retail price: Rs177 per kg
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From October 15 onwards:
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Ex-mill price: Rs171 per kg
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Retail price: Rs178 per kg
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The move is aimed at countering speculative pricing and hoarding that have contributed to the recent spike in sugar rates across the province.
Also Read: PM Shehbaz constitutes committee to deregulate sugar sector
Orders for implementation
Price Control Secretary Dr. Ehsan Bhatta has directed the director general of food to ensure strict enforcement of these prices at both production and retail levels. Retailers and sugar mills have been warned against overcharging, and any violations will be met with strict legal action.
PM forms committee
Meanwhile, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has constituted a high-level committee tasked with developing proposals for the deregulation, reform and potential privatisation of the sugar sector.
According to details, the committee is required to submit its report within 30 days. Chaired by the federal minister for energy, with the secretary of the Ministry of Industries and Production acting as the convener, the committee comprises the finance, national food security and economic affairs ministers, SAPM Rana Naseem and Agriculture Coordinator Ahmed Omar.
The committee will examine existing laws, rules and policies governing the sugar industry at both federal and provincial levels. It will address issues relating to sugar production, import and export, pricing mechanisms, subsidies and hoarding.
Recommendations will be based on considerations of reserves, supply, pricing, and the rights and needs of both farmers and consumers.
