Sugar shortage hits Utility Stores

ISLAMABAD: In a development that has compounded the woes of inflation-burdened citizens, a shortage of sugar in Utility Stores nationwide has left consumers without access to subsidized sugar, forcing them to purchase the commodity at considerably higher prices in the open market.

As per available information, a majority of Utility Stores across the country currently face depleted sugar stocks, as no new purchases of the commodity have been made. The situation may exacerbate further if the government does not promptly replenish the sugar supply.

Local shortages and imports delay: Sugar prices soar nationwide

Sources within the Utility Stores Corporation (USC), cited by a private news channel, have disclosed that the corporation is grappling with a sugar shortage due to challenges in procuring sufficient stock. It was reported that the corporation recently canceled two tenders due to high bids and failed to receive any bids for certain other tenders.

Utility Stores authorities have asserted that efforts are underway to secure a sugar supply. Additionally, they have announced plans to issue an open tender for the procurement of 40 thousand tons of sugar in the upcoming week.

In the previous month, stability returned to the price and availability of sugar following a comprehensive crackdown by the caretaker government on smuggling and hoarding of essential commodities. The government’s strategy included offering cash rewards to citizens who provided information leading to the identification of individuals engaged in smuggling and hoarding.

To combat hoarding, federal and provincial governments initiated operations in various cities, including Lahore, Rawalpindi, Islamabad, Faisalabad, Peshawar, Quetta, and Dera Ismail Khan, resulting in the confiscation of illegally stored sugar.