Islamabad — In a bid to stabilize the market and curb profiteering, the federal government has fixed the retail price of sugar at Rs165 per kilogram, following a sharp and unchecked surge in prices across the country.
The Ministry of National Food Security issued the price notification after sugar prices had skyrocketed beyond Rs180 per kg in several cities, sparking public outrage and putting additional pressure on household budgets. The price hike was largely attributed to market manipulation, hoarding, and a lack of regulatory oversight.
According to officials, the decision to cap the sugar price was taken in coordination with provincial governments, aiming to provide immediate relief to consumers and bring uniformity to the sugar market.
However, stakeholders in the sugar industry expressed reservations, claiming that the fixed rate does not account for rising production costs and logistics. Mill owners argue that government intervention without addressing root supply issues could lead to a fresh sugar crisis in the coming weeks.
The government has also directed price monitoring committees to ensure strict enforcement of the new rates and warned of penalties against hoarders and retailers charging beyond the official limit.
This move follows widespread criticism of the free-for-all sugar pricing, which had led to public frustration, especially in the lead-up to the Eid season. The sudden price cap is part of broader measures to counter food inflation and maintain market discipline.
