Islamabad, July 20, 2025 – As Pakistan continues to grapple with escalating sugar prices and market instability, the Sustainable Development Policy Institute (SDPI) is stepping forward to spark a crucial national conversation.
On Monday, July 21, 2025, SDPI will host a high-level seminar titled “Sugar Crisis in Pakistan: Causes, Consequences and Cure” from 3:00 PM to 5:00 PM at the SDPI Conference Hall and via Zoom.
The SDPI seminar aims to explore the multiple dimensions of the country’s ongoing sugar crisis, which has impacted millions of consumers and exposed deep-rooted flaws in agricultural and trade policy. With a hybrid format, the event will bring together key stakeholders—including policymakers, industry leaders, researchers, economists, civil society actors, and media representatives—to engage in a data-driven and solutions-oriented dialogue.
According to the official statement released by SDPI, the seminar will focus on the underlying causes of the sugar crisis such as distorted production incentives, regulatory gaps, hoarding practices, and the suspected role of cartels in price manipulation. Panelists will examine how these structural failures contribute to recurring shortages and artificial inflation in sugar markets.
SDPI researchers are expected to present detailed, evidence-based policy recommendations for reforming Pakistan’s sugar sector. These proposals aim to enhance market transparency, strengthen institutional oversight, and shield consumers from future price shocks. The seminar will also highlight the social and economic costs of inaction, especially for lower-income households.
With open access to the public, both in-person and online attendees are encouraged to participate actively. The event seeks to foster inclusive dialogue, allowing diverse voices to contribute to shaping sustainable solutions to one of the country’s most stubborn governance and economic challenges.
As the sugar crisis continues to stir public concern and political debate, this seminar marks an important opportunity for collective reflection and policy innovation. Interested participants can register through SDPI’s official website or join the live discussion via Zoom.