KARACHI: Sugar prices have soared to unprecedented levels across Pakistan, with rates reaching as high as Rs195/kg in some cities, triggering concern among consumers and prompting swift intervention by the federal government.
According to market data, Islamabad recorded the highest price at Rs195 per kg, followed closely by Rawalpindi, Karachi, and Peshawar at Rs190. In Quetta, sugar is selling for Rs186 per kg, while Khuzdar and Sialkot report prices of Rs185.
In southern and central parts of the country, prices also remain high. Sugar is being sold at Rs180 per kg in Hyderabad, Bahawalpur, Multan, and Bannu, while Sukkur and Larkana are seeing rates around Rs175 per kg, marking a sharp rise in retail prices nationwide.
Govt steps in with large-scale import plan
To counter the price hike and ease public concerns, the federal government has decided to import 750,000 metric tons of sugar. Officials from the Ministry of National Food Security confirmed that the move aims to stabilize local markets and address the ongoing shortage.
As part of this effort, the federal cabinet has given in-principle approval for the import of 500,000 metric tons of refined sugar. Approval for an additional 250,000 metric tons of raw sugar is also expected shortly.
