ISLAMABAD – A National Assembly Panel on Monday initiated a formal inquiry into the sharp surge in sugar prices across the country. The probe will examine sugar export and import trends, and identify individuals or entities that may have profited from the price volatility.
Describing the situation as “suspicious,” Chairman Jawed Hanif Khan called for accountability. “This entire episode of the sugar crisis raises serious concerns. It must be thoroughly investigated, and if any wrongdoing is uncovered, criminal proceedings should follow,” he stated.
Members of Standing Committee from Pakistan Peoples’ Party (PPP), PML(N), Pakistan Tahreek-e-Insaf (PTI) supported a comprehensive probe against current sugar situation. They were of the view that the names of those who made huge money be pointed out.
To deepen the investigation, the Committee constituted a sub-committee tasked with exploring the circumstances surrounding the price hike. A key focus will be on sugar exports followed by duty- and tax-free imports—an alleged strategy designed to benefit select groups.
Chairman National Assembly Standing Committee on Commerce, Hanif suggested that a coordinated effort involving politicians, bureaucrats, and the sugar industry might have influenced the market dynamics. Members from both government and opposition parties endorsed the formation of the special panel, agreeing that the entire sugar supply chain—from production to market distribution—warrants close scrutiny.
Relevant ministries, regulatory bodies, and industry stakeholders will be summoned in the coming weeks to aid the investigation.
On the issue of ban on export and import of gold, Commerce Ministry officials stated that a summary to lift ban on export and import of gold.
