Sugar price surges in city

The price of white refined sugar has risen by up to Rs25 per kilogramme since the start of Ramazan, as hoarding, profiteering and ineffective price regulation continue to disrupt the market. Consumers across Punjab are paying varying prices for the commodity, with significant disparities observed between the open markets, model bazaars and government-designated sugar sale points. A market survey revealed that at the beginning of the fasting month, sugar was available for Rs156-160 per kg at most retail outlets. However, the have surged to Rs160-165 per kg in wholesale markets and Rs180-185 in retail stores. Despite government efforts to stabilise prices, sugar is currently selling at Rs130 per kg at makeshift sale points, Rs153 at Utility Stores, Rs160-165 in model bazaars and Rs180-185 in open markets, highlighting a fragmented pricing structure. Critics argue that the government's inconsistent pricing policies have created distortions in the market, allowing hoarders and profiteers to exploit the situation amid heightened demand during Ramazan. "Every year during Ramazan, we face the same issue. Prices skyrocket, and no one takes responsibility. The government announces subsidies, but retailers charge whatever they want," said Aftab Ahmed, a shopper at a local market. Shopkeepers, on the other hand, claim they are also victims of the volatile pricing system. "We are buying sugar at inflated rates from wholesalers, so we have no choice but to pass the cost on to consumers," said Tariq Mehmood, a grocery store owner in Lahore.

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