Sugar prices in Pakistan have surged to unprecedented levels, with rates crossing Rs. 200 per kilogram in several cities for the first time.
According to the Pakistan Bureau of Statistics (PBS), the average national price of sugar has climbed to Rs. 188.44 per kg, reflecting a weekly increase of Rs. 3.52. A year ago, sugar averaged Rs. 145.88 per kg, marking an annual hike of over Rs. 42.
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In major cities such as Karachi, Islamabad, and Rawalpindi, sugar is now selling at or above Rs. 200 per kg. Despite the federal government’s decision to import 500,000 metric tons of sugar—divided equally between the Trading Corporation of Pakistan (TCP) and the private sector—industry sources believe the move is unlikely to significantly lower retail prices.
The imported sugar is projected to land at a cost of Rs. 155 per kg, while retail prices are expected to remain between Rs. 195 and Rs. 200 per kg. The import plan is estimated to add around $275–280 million to the country’s import bill.
The Federal Board of Revenue (FBR) approved sweeping tax exemptions to support the imports, including zero customs duty, minimal sales and withholding taxes, and a VAT waiver.
Despite opposition from the Finance Division, Deputy Prime Minister Ishaq Dar secured cabinet approval without going through the Economic Coordination Committee.
