Pakistan Sugar Mills Association (PSMA) has blamed the recent rise in sugar prices on the closure of FBR portals, restrictions on inter-provincial sugar movement, and sales through government-appointed dealers.
A PSMA spokesperson explained that the sugar industry had repeatedly warned the government that closing the portals would create a supply shortfall, inevitably causing prices to rise across the country.
The government pressured mills to prioritize the sale of imported sugar, which the public largely rejected. Meanwhile, local sugar could not reach markets due to portal closures, pushing prices higher, especially in Sindh.
Read more : Sugar prices may drop as Punjab mills start new crushing season
In Punjab, authorities forced mills to sell sugar only to government-designated dealers, who sold it at elevated prices. The sugar industry stressed that it cooperated fully but is not responsible for the resulting price increases.
The crushing season has now begun across Pakistan, and the arrival of fresh sugar is expected to stabilize market prices, easing pressure on consumers in the coming weeks.
Read more : Sugar prices spike well above government limit
PSMA urged the government to lift unconstitutional and illegal restrictions on interprovincial sugar movement to ensure fair availability, consistent pricing, and uninterrupted supply across all regions of the country.