Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif chaired a high-level review meeting to assess the demand, supply, and prices of sugar in the country, and directed strict action against hoarders and profiteers.
The PM also emphasised that speculators would not be allowed to artificially inflate sugar prices, and sought a report after cracking down on profiteers and hoarders.
During the meeting, he instructed relevant authorities to maintain a close watch on sugar consumption and supply to prevent any artificial shortages. He also stressed the need to strengthen ties with sugar mills to ensure smooth distribution. Assuring the public, the PM stated that the country has an ample supply of sugar and those attempting to create a crisis-like situation will be held accountable.
"We will not allow mafias to exploit the common man, especially during the blessed month of Ramadan," said PM Shehbaz Sharif. He further directed chief secretaries to ensure that sugar is supplied to the public at government-fixed rates.
The meeting was attended by federal ministers Azam Nazeer Tarar, Rana Tanveer Hussain, Ahad Khan Cheema, Ali Pervez Malik, Special Assistant to the Prime Minister Haroon Akhtar, and senior officials. The chief secretaries from all four provinces also participated via video link. Officials briefed the PM in detail on sugar consumption, supply chains, and current market prices.
PM engages business leaders, pledges investment
In a separate engagement, a delegation of leading Pakistani business figures met with Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif to discuss economic growth and investment opportunities. The PM reassured the business community of the government’s full support in increasing investment and boosting exports.
He directed that a comprehensive scheme for long-term investment be devised to attract sustainable economic growth. He also mentioned progress on the Export Facilitation Scheme, stating that a committee has been formed to draft proposals that will soon be submitted for approval.
“With the grace of Allah and the tireless efforts of our economic team, the economy has stabilised and is now moving towards development,” PM Shehbaz Sharif stated, urging all stakeholders to work together for economic progress. He also stressed that the government is committed to resolving the problems of the business community, for which all possible steps are being taken.
The business community lauded the government’s initiatives, including the digitization of the Federal Board of Revenue (FBR) and customs clearance reforms that have significantly reduced port clearance times. They also praised the 'Uran Pakistan' program and the economic roadmap outlined by the government.
Business leaders acknowledged improvements in revenue collection, reduced interest rates, and controlled inflation under the current administration. They expressed their appreciation for the government’s dedication to solving business-related issues, emphasizing that, for the first time, the administration is taking concrete steps to facilitate economic growth.
