LAHORE: Consumers across Pakistan are facing a sharp increase in sugar prices, with wholesale and retail rates climbing significantly in major cities. Market sources indicate that supply shortages and high demand are the primary drivers behind the escalating costs, with further hikes anticipated.
In Karachi, the wholesale price of sugar has reached Rs. 178 per kilogram, while retail outlets are selling it for Rs. 190 per kg. Reports from some areas of the city even suggest sugar is being sold for as high as Rs. 200 per kg.
Lahore is also experiencing a similar upward trend. Wholesale sugar prices in the provincial capital have hit Rs. 179 per kilogram. Retail shops are selling sugar between Rs. 185 and Rs. 190 per kg. Market sources here warn that the scarcity of sugar could lead to even higher prices in the coming days.
Meanwhile, Quetta has seen a consistent rise in sugar prices. This week alone, the price increased by Rs. 5 per kilogram, bringing the current retail price to Rs. 190 per kg. Over the past month, Quetta has witnessed a total retail increase of Rs. 10 per kilogram, with market experts predicting further surges due to the demand-supply gap.
Peshawar has also not been immune, with sugar prices rising by Rs. 10 to Rs. 20 per kilogram over the past two weeks. Local shopkeepers report selling sugar at retail prices ranging from Rs. 190 to Rs. 200 per kilogram.
In Rawalpindi, the price of sugar is similarly on the rise. Wholesale market rates for sugar range from Rs. 182 to Rs. 185 per kilogram. The price of a 50 kg sugar bag has escalated to between Rs. 9,000 and Rs. 9,500. Market sources in Rawalpindi predict that prices will continue to climb until imported sugar reaches the market, potentially surpassing Rs. 200 per kilogram.
The widespread increase across all major urban centers points to a national concern regarding sugar availability and pricing, putting additional burden on household budgets.
