Islamabad, July 31, 2025 – Federal Minister for National Food Security and Research, Rana Tanveer Hussain, on Thursday strongly defended the government’s decision to allow the export of sugar amid rising concerns about local market conditions.
Addressing a press conference, the Minister emphasized that the sugar export policy was based on data-driven decisions and aimed at balancing both domestic stability and international trade interests.
The Minister explained that Pakistan exported 750,000 metric tons of surplus sugar, generating $402 million in valuable foreign exchange. He clarified that the export decision was not arbitrary; it followed detailed consultations and verification of stock data from the Federal Board of Revenue (FBR) and other relevant departments. According to him, sugar exports are a long-standing practice and were approved only after ensuring a strategic reserve of 500,000 metric tons to prevent domestic shortages.
Contrary to speculation, the Minister highlighted that domestic sugar prices actually dropped—from Rs138 to Rs119 per kilogram—after the export was approved, thereby negating claims that exports triggered price hikes.
Touching on recent sugar import reports, the Minister stated that while permission was granted to import 500,000 metric tons, only 300,000 metric tons would actually be brought in, costing up to $150 million. He stressed that this move was aimed at discouraging hoarding and stabilizing the market, not due to a shortage. Pakistan currently holds 5.8 million metric tons in sugar stock from the latest production cycle, plus a buffer, bringing the total availability to 6.3 million metric tons—matching the country’s annual consumption.
Rana Tanveer Hussain categorically rejected any narrative of sugar scarcity, attributing recent panic to manipulative practices by hoarders. He reaffirmed that there is no genuine supply issue in Pakistan.
The Minister also lauded the government’s support for sugarcane growers, noting record payments ranging from Rs450 to Rs740 per 40 kg. Despite lower-than-expected sugar production due to climate challenges, reserves remain sufficient.
Finally, the Minister outlined Pakistan’s broader economic improvements, including rising forex reserves, lower inflation, reduced policy rates, and renewed international ties. He reaffirmed the government’s commitment to deregulating the sugar sector to attract investment and dismantle monopolistic structures, ushering in transparency and growth.