Islamabad, March 14, 2025 – Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Friday directed strict action against those hoarding sugar and creating an artificial shortage to manipulate prices.
Chairing a review meeting on the supply and demand of sugar, Shehbaz emphasized that no one would be allowed to exploit the market through illegal stockpiling and price speculation.
Shehbaz stated that the government would not tolerate hoarders artificially inflating sugar prices and instructed authorities to launch a crackdown against profiteers. He demanded a comprehensive report on actions taken against those involved in hoarding and unfair trading practices.
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During the meeting, Shehbaz reiterated that sugar is available in sufficient quantity across the country and that any attempt to create an artificial crisis would be met with strict legal action. He stressed the importance of closely monitoring the supply and demand of sugar, particularly during the blessed month of Ramadan ul Mubarak, ensuring that the common man is not burdened by unnecessary price hikes.
Shehbaz directed officials to enhance coordination with sugar mills to maintain a steady supply and prevent hoarding. He also instructed the chief secretaries of all four provinces to ensure that sugar is provided to consumers at government-fixed rates. He made it clear that no elements seeking to disrupt the sugar market would be spared.
The meeting was attended by federal ministers Azam Nazeer Tarar, Rana Tanvir Hussain, Ahad Khan Cheema, and Ali Pervaiz Malik, along with Special Assistant to PM Haroon Akhtar and other high-level officials. Chief Secretaries of the four provinces joined via video link, providing updates on sugar availability and enforcement measures against hoarders.
Shehbaz was given a detailed briefing on the current sugar supply situation and its pricing trends. Officials assured him that steps were being taken to prevent any artificial shortage and stabilize the market. The prime minister reaffirmed his commitment to ensuring that essential commodities, including sugar, remain accessible to the public at fair prices.
With Shehbaz’s directives in place, authorities are expected to intensify monitoring and enforcement actions to prevent sugar hoarding and speculative trading, ensuring market stability and consumer protection.