Govt cracks down on sugar stock irregularities

July 29, 2025(MLN): In a decisive move to curb irregularities in the sugar market, the Federal Government has informed that officials will be deputed to every sugar mill across the country to strictly monitor stock levels and ensure uninterrupted supply.

This initiative, led by Federal Minister for National Food Security and Research, Mr. Rana Tanveer Hussain, aims to enhance transparency, enforce compliance with supply agreements, and maintain price stability.

The announcement was made during a high-level meeting chaired by Minister Hussain, which brought together representatives of the Pakistan Sugar Mills Association (PSMA) and key stakeholders from all provinces.

The meeting was convened to assess the current sugar supply situation and address ongoing concerns regarding delayed dispatches and non-compliance by several mills with the previously agreed supply framework.

Expressing dissatisfaction over the repeated breaches of commitment, the Minister warned that any further negligence or manipulation would not be tolerated. “The government will now ensure real-time oversight of sugar stocks to avoid market disruptions,” he stated.

To support this monitoring effort, the Ministry will appoint designated officials at each mill tasked with verifying stock positions, tracking releases, and reporting discrepancies.

In addition, a Grievance Redressal Committee will be formed to address legitimate concerns of mill owners, alongside the launch of a dedicated WhatsApp group to enable real-time coordination between government authorities and the sugar industry.

Chairman PSMA acknowledged the initiative and shared operational challenges faced by millers. The Minister assured full cooperation to resolve genuine issues through dialogue and transparency.

The Ministry reaffirmed its commitment to ensuring fair practices, safeguarding consumer interests, and working collaboratively with all stakeholders for a stable and efficient sugar supply chain.

Lately, strong concern had been raised over the artificial hike in sugar prices, with confirmation that a nationwide crackdown is underway against hoarding and market manipulation.

As a result of these actions, sugar prices dropped significantly from Rs200 per kg to Rs175–180 per kg across various markets. 

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