The federal government ordered strict oversight of sugar mill stocks, and officials will be deputed to each sugar mill to monitor stock levels and ensure uninterrupted supply in accordance with agreed terms.
Minister for National Food Security and Research Rana Tanveer Hussain on Monday chaired an important meeting with representatives of the Pakistan Sugar Mills Association (PSMA) and other key stakeholders from across the provinces to review the ongoing sugar supply situation in the country.
He said that the government was committed to maintaining price stability and ensuring an adequate sugar supply in the market, adding that any negligence or violation of agreements will not be tolerated.
At the same time, we will work closely with the industry to resolve their legitimate concerns in a timely manner,” the minister added.
During the meeting, it was observed that several sugar mills are not adhering to the mutually agreed framework regarding the supply and release of sugar stocks. Despite repeated assurances, issues persist in the timely dispatch and availability of sugar in the market.
The Chairman of PSMA also raised the concerns and challenges faced by mill owners. In response, the Federal Minister assured the industry that their genuine issues would be addressed. To facilitate effective communication and resolution of grievances, the Minister directed the formation of a Grievance Redressal Committee.
Additionally, a dedicated WhatsApp group will be established to ensure real-time coordination between government officials and sugar mill representatives.
The Ministry reiterated its commitment to transparent stock management, price stabilisation, and coordination with all stakeholders to protect both consumer and producer interests.
On the flip side, a dispute involving sugar mills, brokers, dealers, and district administration has sparked a severe sugar crisis in many urban centres, including Rawalpindi and Islamabad, affecting the supply and pricing of the commodity. As a result of the ongoing conflict, many retailers in the district have run out of stock, and sugar is now being sold at inflated prices, reaching up to Rs220 per kilogram.
In response to heavy penalties and shop closures enforced by the district administration, several retailers have removed sugar from their shelves, with some reportedly selling it secretly at higher prices to select customers. Initial talks between the sugar merchant association, the cane commissioner, and the Federal Board of Revenue (FBR) have yielded some progress, with an expected breakthrough in an upcoming meeting chaired by the federal minister.
Rawalpindi Deputy Commissioner Hasan Waqas Cheema clarified that pricing is not a district issue and must comply with federal directives. Authorities are strictly enforcing the Rs173 retail price, with penalties for violations. In the past 24 hours, 127 violations were reported, resulting in fines totaling Rs145,000, five arrests, and the sealing of nine shops.
A breakdown of violations includes Rawalpindi (2 violations, Rs30,000 in fines), Attock (11 violations, Rs8,500), Jhelum (16 violations, Rs30,000), Chakwal (8 violations, Rs22,000), and Murree (90 violations, Rs55,000 and 3 arrests).
