Sugar prices have surged to Rs. 200 per kilogram in numerous cities across the country, with the Ministry of National Food Security & Research attributing this price hike to smuggling, hoarding, and market manipulation.
In Balochistan’s Noshki, sugar is being sold for as high as Rs. 220 per kg. Other cities in the province, including Quetta, Kohlu, and Washuk, are witnessing sugar prices around Rs. 200 per kg.
In Peshawar, sugar prices range from Rs. 195 to Rs. 205 per kg. In Punjab, sugar is available for Rs. 170 to Rs. 190 per kg. Major cities like Karachi, Lahore, and Multan also have sugar prices hovering around Rs. 180 per kg.
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It’s worth noting that in a recent meeting, the Economic Coordination Committee (ECC) of the Cabinet instructed the Ministry of National Food Security & Research to collaborate with relevant agencies and authorities to combat sugar smuggling and hoarding. Additionally, the ECC requested immediate updates on wheat stocks, availability, and prices from the ministry.
The price of sugar has surged by more than 80 percent in the past four months. Despite the rising prices, the country was exporting sugar, with exports totaling 5,542 metric tonnes in July. However, sugar exports have been banned since August 10.
