Sugar Crisis Deepens in Punjab as Dispute Between Sugar Mill Owners and Dealers Remains Unresolved

Lahore: The sugar crisis in Punjab has intensified as the conflict between sugar mill owners and dealers remains unresolved. The ongoing tension over sugar trade has disrupted supply in markets, forcing consumers to purchase sugar at inflated prices.
According to sources, sugar mill owners are avoiding direct engagement with the media on the issue. Insiders from the Sugar Mills Association claim that the government is aware of their stance and that efforts are being made internally to resolve the crisis. They also asserted that there is no shortage of sugar stock at present.
On the other hand, Sugar Dealers Association leader Sohail Malik has leveled serious allegations, claiming that sugar mill owners, in collusion with the Ministry of Production, exported sugar for profit. “Sugar priced at Rs. 125 per kg was sold internationally at Rs. 167 per kg, reaping billions in profits. Now, as the local market faces a shortage, all blame is being unfairly shifted onto the dealers,” he said.
Malik warned that domestic sugar stocks will be depleted by July 31, potentially worsening the crisis. He added that while increasing the sugar price to Rs. 190 per kg might offer a temporary fix, it would be unacceptable to both the government and the public.
He further stated that the Punjab government could offer sugar at Rs. 170 per kg at Sunday markets and fair price shops, but emphasized that a lasting solution lies in deregulating the market. Malik also claimed that several sugar dealers have gone into hiding over fears of being placed on the Exit Control List (ECL).
It is worth noting that the government had directed sugar mills to supply sugar at Rs. 165 per kg, but dealers report that sugar is still not available to them at that rate.