Islamabad: The Pakistan Sugar Mills Association (PSMA) has criticised the government’s decision to import sugar despite the country having sufficient domestic stocks.
According to the association, the government’s move to bring in 0.3 million metric tons of sugar was unnecessary from the beginning, and repeated requests from the industry to reconsider the plan were ignored. As of November 18, 2025, the country has enough sugar available, which needs to be sold to help the industry recover from ongoing financial difficulties.
PSMA said the situation of farmers has worsened, with floodwaters still standing in fields and delaying sugarcane harvesting. The association urged the government to review these conditions seriously before taking further steps.
The body also raised concerns that imported sugar is being brought in without taxes or duties and with additional subsidies, which could create major disruptions in the local market. It further alleged that the government often shuts down the Federal Board of Revenue (FBR) portal for mills, making it easier for imported sugar to be sold.
The association called on the government to take decisive steps in the interest of farmers and the sugar industry.
