Islamabad(Khyber Point)Sugar prices have surged across Pakistan, reaching as high as Rs210 per kilogram in several cities due to non-availability of sugar at government-fixed rates, according to market reports.
In Lahore, the retail price of sugar has climbed between Rs190 and Rs210 per kilogram, while in Peshawar, consumers are paying up to Rs210 per kilogram. In Quetta, sugar is selling at Rs185 per kilogram in retail markets and Rs180 per kilogram at the wholesale level.
Meanwhile, in Rawalpindi, the government-fixed rate for sugar stands at Rs179 per kilogram, but retailers are selling it between Rs181 and Rs185 due to insufficient supply. Shopkeepers argue that the official price is unrealistic amid rising wholesale costs and limited stock availability.
President of the Rawalpindi Kiryana (Grocery) Association, Saleem Pervaiz Butt, stated that retailers are finding it difficult to sell sugar even at Rs185 per kilogram, as supply shortages continue to push procurement costs higher. “Government enforcement teams are imposing fines for exceeding official prices, but the real issue is the lack of adequate supply,” he said.
He further warned that if sugar is not provided in sufficient quantities, retailers may be forced to halt sales altogether. Butt also criticized price control measures, saying they are penalizing small shopkeepers rather than addressing the root cause — inconsistent distribution and stock shortages.
The sharp rise in sugar prices has sparked concern among consumers, who are already burdened by inflation and increasing food costs. Market analysts warn that unless the government ensures steady supply at regulated prices, the crisis could deepen in the coming weeks.
