Traders in Pakistan refused to sell sugar at the government-set rates, which is causing delays in setting up Ramazan bazaars. This situation arises from ongoing disputes between the government and sugar mill owners over pricing.
The Pakistan Sugar Mills Association has previously rejected government-fixed prices, arguing that they cannot sell sugar below their production costs, which range from Rs115 to Rs120 per kg.
Recently, the sugar industry announced plans to sell sugar at a discounted rate of Rs130 per kg during Ramazan, which is higher than the government’s fixed retail price of around Rs98.82 per kg.
Traders are criticizing the government’s policies, blaming them for ineffective management of sugar prices. The government has been trying to stabilize prices, but speculators and hoarders continue to influence the market, leading to price fluctuations.
The current situation highlights the challenges in regulating essential commodity prices, particularly sugar, during significant events like Ramazan.
The government’s efforts to control prices are often undermined by market dynamics and the actions of traders and speculators. As a result, setting up Ramazan bazaars, which rely on stable and affordable prices for essential goods, is being delayed.
In Rawalpindi, the district administration’s negotiations with the traders and the Grocery Merchants Association regarding setting up affordable Ramazan bazaars reportedly failed, with the latter refusing to set up special stalls for selling sugar at government rates.
The post Sugar Price Dispute Delays Ramazan Bazaar Setup as Traders Refuse Government Rates appeared first on Oyeyeah.
