Sugar Mills Association Blames Government for Rising Sugar Prices

Islamabad: The Pakistan Sugar Mills Association (PSMA) has held the government responsible for the recent surge in sugar prices, stating that the sugar industry is not at fault.

In a statement, the association said the price hike was triggered by the closure of FBR portals, government-designated dealers, and restrictions on inter-provincial sugar transport. The industry had repeatedly warned that closing the portals would reduce sugar supply and drive prices up. However, the government continued to pressure mills to sell imported sugar unnecessarily.

The PSMA added that the majority of consumers did not prefer imported sugar. In Sindh, portals were kept closed to prioritize the sale of imported sugar at the port. Since these restrictions were imposed, domestic sugar supply began to decline, contributing to higher prices.

In Punjab, district administrations reportedly forced mills to sell sugar to government-appointed dealers, who allegedly sold it at inflated prices for profit.

The association noted that the arrival of the new sugar season is expected to stabilize prices and urged the government to remove unconstitutional and illegal restrictions on inter-provincial sugar movement.