ISLAMABAD – Pakistan’s sugar industry has assured the public that the country has sufficient sugar reserves to last until at least mid-November 2025, despite ongoing price concerns and recent disruptions in the supply chain.
According to the Pakistan Sugar Mills Association (PSMA), all operational sugar mills are currently selling sugar at an ex-mill price of Rs165 per kilogram. This rate refers to the price at which sugar leaves the mill and does not include transport, wholesaler, or retailer markups.
The PSMA acknowledged that administrative interventions by various government departments had temporarily affected the flow of sugar into the market. However, those issues are reportedly being resolved, and supply lines have largely resumed normal operation.
The association reiterated that while mills are maintaining the Rs165/kg rate at the source, retail prices vary due to additional costs and market forces. Although media reports have highlighted sugar being sold as high as Rs200/kg in some areas, PSMA insists that in most regions, sugar is available at government-controlled retail prices ranging from Rs173 to Rs175 per kilogram.
This pricing gap has drawn criticism and confusion among consumers already grappling with rising inflation. The government has intervened by capping retail prices in an attempt to prevent profiteering and keep the essential commodity accessible to the public.
Despite the price volatility, the industry’s forecast of stable supplies offers some reassurance—at least for the next few months. However, whether that will translate into affordable sugar for the average consumer remains uncertain amid fluctuating retail practices.