ISLAMABAD:
Federal Minister for National Food Security and Research Rana Tanveer Hussain has said that the government will initiate a countrywide crackdown against the mills involved in hoarding, profiteering or overpricing, if the Pakistan Sugar Mills Association (PSMA) failed to play its due role in ensuring compliance with the notified price among its members.
Rana Tanveer chaired a high-level meeting on Tuesday with representatives of PSMA, provincial agricultural departments and key stakeholders from across the country. The meeting was convened to review the current sugar price situation and compliance with the government’s notified ex-mill rate of Rs165 per kilogramme.
The minister expressed grave concern over reports that several sugar mills were not complying with the fixed price and were contributing to artificial inflation in the market. He categorically said that the government would not tolerate such manipulation of the market, which places an unfair burden on the common man.
He issued a strict warning, stating that if the association failed to play its role in ensuring compliance among its members, the government would be compelled to initiate a countrywide crackdown.
The minister emphasised the need for transparency and fairness in the sugar supply chain. He also asked all provincial governments to provide detailed compliance reports within 24 hours and enhance monitoring at the district level to curb any illegal practices by mill owners.
He stated that the food security ministry would work in close coordination with the relevant enforcement bodies including the Federal Board of Revenue (FBR) and provincial food authorities to take legal action against violators.
Rana Tanveer reiterated the government’s commitment to protecting the rights of consumers and maintaining price stability in essential commodities. He urged all stakeholders to act responsibly and cooperate fully with the government to ensure smooth supply and fair pricing of sugar across the country.
