Islamabad: In order to control sugar prices and break the monopoly, federal government has moved to end decades-long state control over the sugar sector, with officials confirming that a proposal to fully deregulate the industry will be submitted to Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif this week. According to officials in the Ministry of National Food Security, the summary outlines sweeping changes that would shift sugar pricing and production policies entirely to the open market.
Key Powers to Shift Away from the State
Officials said Food Security Minister Rana Tanveer Hussain will present the summary, which also recommends removing the longstanding ban on establishing new sugar mills. If approved, the government would lose its authority over sugar imports, exports and official price setting, leaving market forces to determine retail rates.
Prices Continue to Surge Nationwide
Meanwhile, sugar prices have surged across Pakistan, adding pressure on households already burdened by inflation. Retail rates in Karachi have climbed to between Rs180 and Rs190 per kilogram, while prices in Faisalabad and Sukkur have touched Rs200. Moreover, several cities including Lahore continue to report steady weekly increases.
Public Calls for Action Against Profiteering
Consumers have urged authorities to crack down on hoarding and profiteering, warning that sugar a basic household staple is slipping out of the reach of ordinary citizens. Many argue that without strict enforcement, deregulation may worsen price volatility in the short term.
