Government approves sugar import to stabilise market and curb inflation.

Federal Minister for National Food Security and Research, Rana Tanveer Hussain, chaired a meeting of the Sugar Advisory Board in Islamabad on Monday to address the current volatility in the sugar market.

During the meeting, the board approved the import of 500,000 metric tons of sugar in response to recent disruptions in supply and rising prices. The minister confirmed that all formalities regarding the import will be completed within the next few days, after which the imported sugar will be made available in the local market.

This measure is part of a broader strategy aimed at stabilising sugar prices and ensuring consistent availability for consumers. Rana Tanveer Hussain emphasised that irregularities in the supply chain and non-compliance by sugar mill owners have been key contributors to market instability and price hikes.

He noted that rising sugar prices are not only straining household budgets but are also increasing the cost of various food items, placing a heavy burden on ordinary citizens.

To tackle the issue, the Ministry will enforce strict monitoring and regulatory mechanisms in collaboration with provincial governments. These efforts will target transparency in distribution, prevent hoarding, and curb profiteering practices.

The minister reiterated the government’s commitment to food security, market stability, and consumer protection. He described the sugar import decision as a proactive step to control inflation and safeguard the availability of essential commodities.

The Ministry of National Food Security and Research will continue to monitor market dynamics and implement timely interventions to ensure public welfare and responsible market governance.