The federal cabinet has officially approved the import of 500,000 metric tons of sugar, directing immediate procurement through both the Trading Corporation of Pakistan (TCP) and private sector players. The decision comes in response to increasing sugar prices and rising public concern over inflation and commodity availability.

Domestic Sugar Prices Reach Record High

The move follows reports of domestic sugar prices reaching as high as Rs190 to Rs200 per kilogram in several regions. This surge has placed a burden on household budgets and prompted immediate policy action to ensure sufficient supply and check hoarding behaviors.

Objective: Market Stabilization and Consumer Relief

The government aims to balance the local sugar market by ensuring consistent supply through imports. The increased availability is expected to stabilize wholesale and retail prices, reduce speculative hoarding, and discourage artificial shortages created by market manipulation.

Joint Import Strategy: Public and Private Sector Involvement

The import plan includes procurement from international suppliers via both public and private channels. This joint approach is designed to expedite supply chain logistics, eliminate delays, and facilitate the fast-track arrival of sugar into the domestic market.

Steering Committee Finalizes Import Mechanism

A high-level steering committee reviewed the proposal in detail and finalized operational steps. Comprising top officials from various ministries and provincial administrations, the committee approved the implementation roadmap and oversight protocols to monitor the process.

No Subsidy or Price Intervention Announced

Unlike previous practices, the government has refused to provide any subsidy or price intervention for the import. Instead, the strategy encourages market-based imports with minimal fiscal burden on the national exchequer, ensuring transparency and financial discipline.

Enforcement Measures Against Hoarders Intensified

In parallel, federal and provincial authorities have been instructed to launch strict actions against sugar hoarders and black marketers. Warehouses and storage facilities suspected of illegal stockpiling are under surveillance, with enforcement agencies authorized to carry out raids and recover illicit hoards.

Timely Execution Expected to Ease Inflationary Pressure

Once the imported sugar reaches local markets, prices are expected to ease considerably. The availability of 500,000 metric tons is projected to fulfill short-term demand, restore equilibrium in the supply chain, and reduce inflationary pressures on essential commodities.

Consumer Advisory and Monitoring Mechanism

The government plans to closely monitor price trends and distribution channels. Efforts are underway to ensure fair availability at retail points, with special task forces deployed to oversee retail pricing, prevent overcharging, and enforce compliance across all districts.