Govt to deploy officials at sugar mills to monitor supply, curb hoarding

ISLAMABAD: The government will now post officials at sugar mills across the country to monitor stocks and ensure smooth supply to markets.

This step, led by Federal Minister for National Food Security and Research Rana Tanveer Hussain, aims to improve transparency, enforce supply agreements, and keep prices stable.

The decision was made during a high-level meeting chaired by the minister. It was attended by members of the Pakistan Sugar Mills Association (PSMA) and officials from all provinces. The meeting was called to review sugar supply situation, following concerns over delayed deliveries and repeated breaches of agreed supply terms by select mills.

Minister Hussain voiced concern and warned that further negligence would lead to strict action.

“The government will now have real-time oversight of sugar stocks to prevent market disruptions,” he said.

Under the plan, the ministry will assign officials to each mill. They will verify stock levels, track releases, and report any irregularities.

To improve coordination, a Grievance Redressal Committee will also be formed to hear millers’ concerns. A dedicated WhatsApp group will be created for direct contact between government and the industry.

The PSMA chairman welcomed the move and raised operational issues faced by sugar mills. The minister assured the government’s full support to address genuine concerns through dialogue and cooperation.

The ministry reaffirmed its goal of protecting consumers, ensuring fair trade and working with stakeholders to keep sugar supplies steady.

These steps follow a recent crackdown on hoarding and price manipulation, which helped push sugar prices down from Rs200 per kg to Rs175–180 in many markets.

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