No Sugar Crisis in Pakistan, Says Federal Minister Rana Tanveer
Federal Minister for National Food Security Rana Tanveer has clarified that there is no sugar crisis in the country, adding that misconceptions are being spread regarding sugar imports and exports.
Addressing a press conference, the minister stated that sugar imports are not happening for the first time. He highlighted that last year, Pakistan had a surplus stock, which led to the decision to export sugar.
He added that the issue of sugar supply is being exaggerated, pointing out that over the past 10 years, sugar has been both exported and imported regularly.
“The export and import of sugar is not a new matter. All such decisions are taken in the Sugar Advisory Board, which includes ministers, stakeholders, and provincial representatives,” he explained.
Tanveer further shared that during the last export phase, Pakistan had an opening stock of 800,000 tons, with a total production of 6.8 million metric tons. This resulted in a surplus of 1.3 million metric tons.
He also noted that when the export decision was made, the global price stood at $750 per ton, while the local price was Rs.138 per kg. At that time, it was agreed that sugar prices would not exceed Rs.140 per kg.
