The Pakistani government has announced plans to deregulate the sugar industry, aiming to give mills greater pricing freedom and reduce government intervention.
Officials say the move is intended to increase production efficiency, stabilize the market, and attract private investment in the sector.
Currently, sugar prices are regulated, and mills must follow government-set procurement rates, which farmers have criticized as too low.
The proposed deregulation could allow market forces to determine prices, potentially benefiting both producers and consumers if managed properly.
Industry representatives have welcomed the decision, saying it may reduce bottlenecks and encourage long-term planning for sugarcane production and milling operations.
However, consumer rights groups caution that deregulation must include safeguards to prevent price spikes that could burden households, especially during peak demand seasons.
Also read: PM Shehbaz Sharif Arrives in Karachi for Daylong Visit
