Islamabad Sets Sugar Price at Rs165, Warns Shopkeepers of Action

Islamabad has officially fixed the retail price of sugar at Rs165 per kilogram and warned all shopkeepers that strict legal action will be taken if they overcharge. This decision was made after the prices of sugar in the local markets suddenly increased, with some sellers charging between Rs190 to Rs200 per kilogram. Many citizens complained that the price hike was making it difficult to manage their household expenses. In response, the district administration decided to take action to protect consumers and maintain market stability.

The Deputy Commissioner of Islamabad announced that the ex-mill price of sugar, which is the price sugar mills sell to wholesalers, is now Rs172 per kilogram, and the retail price for customers is officially set at Rs165 per kilogram. This means no shopkeeper is allowed to sell sugar at a higher price than this. Authorities said any violation of this price will lead to legal penalties, which may include heavy fines, sealing of shops, or arrests. A monitoring team has already been formed to visit markets and check if shopkeepers are following the fixed rate.

The administration is urging the public to report any shop or store that is not obeying the official price. Citizens can contact the local control room or complaint helplines to report cases of overpricing. Officials assured the public that their identities would be kept confidential.

To further control the situation, the federal government has also decided to import 500,000 tonnes of sugar from abroad. The imported sugar is expected to arrive in Pakistan by the end of September. The government believes that this step will help increase supply and lower prices in the local market.

The public has responded positively to this decision. Many people say it is a much-needed relief, especially for low-income families. One resident from Islamabad shared that it had become almost impossible to afford sugar over the past few weeks, and this step by the government brings some hope. On the other hand, some shopkeepers are not happy with the price cap. They claim that they are being forced to sell sugar at a loss because they are purchasing it at higher prices from suppliers and wholesalers. The administration has promised to take strict action against those hoarding sugar or creating artificial shortages in the market to raise prices.

Authorities have made it clear that hoarding, black marketing, or selling above the official price will not be tolerated under any circumstances. They also said that more strict inspections will be carried out in coming days to ensure full compliance.

This move is part of the government’s larger plan to keep the prices of essential items like sugar, flour, ghee, and rice under control, especially ahead of religious events such as Eid and Muharram, when market prices often increase. By fixing prices and keeping a close check on supply chains, the government hopes to bring relief to the people and stabilize the market.

In summary, sugar will now be sold in Islamabad at no more than Rs165 per kilogram, and any violation of this rate will result in strict legal consequences. The public is encouraged to report any overcharging, and the government is taking additional steps, like importing sugar, to ensure that prices remain stable and fair for everyone.