The sugar mafia has once again tightened its grip on the market, leading to a sharp increase in sugar prices across the country. In the past two weeks, the price of sugar has risen by Rs15 to Rs20 per kilogram in various cities, causing widespread concern among citizens and traders alike.

In Multan, sugar that was available for Rs135 per kilogram two weeks ago is now being sold for Rs150 to Rs160 per kilogramme after a hike of Rs20 to Rs25. Similarly, a 50kg bag of sugar, which previously cost Rs6,750, is now priced at Rs7,200. The trend is consistent in other cities, including Faisalabad, where the ex-mill rate is Rs146 per kilogram, but the market price has soared to Rs160 after an increase of Rs10.

Cities like Jhang, Sialkot, Sargodha, and Pakpattan have also witnessed a significant hike, with sugar now selling for Rs155 to Rs160 per kilogram. In Hyderabad and Dera Ismail Khan, the price has increased by Rs20, reaching Rs150 per kg. Lahore has not been spared either, with prices fluctuating between Rs150 and Rs165 per kg after an increase in price of Rs10 to Rs20, depending on the area.

Shopkeepers have attributed the price instability to the sugar mill owners, accusing them of manipulating prices at will. "The unstable price of sugar is the handiwork of sugar mill owners who determine the price at their own discretion," said a shopkeeper in Lahore.

Citizens have expressed frustration over the sudden price hike and hoarding of sugar even before Ramazan. Many fear that hoarding and speculative practices will drive prices even higher during the holy month. "If the government does not take immediate action against hoarders, the price of sugar could reach Rs200 per kg in Ramazan," warned a trader in Faisalabad.

In Karachi, traders have also raised concerns over the continuous increase in sugar prices. "Sugar has become more expensive by Rs26 per kg in just one month. This is surprising and alarming," said a Karachi-based trader. He added that without government intervention, the situation is likely to worsen.

The ex-mill rate of sugar has also seen a significant increase, reaching Rs145 per kilogram in recent days. This has further fueled the rise in retail prices, with sugar now being sold for Rs160 per kilogram in the open market.

Many buyers have called on the government to take strict action against hoarders and profiteers. "The government must intervene immediately to control the situation. We cannot afford to pay Rs165 per kilogram for sugar when the official price is supposed to be Rs145," said a concerned citizen in Multan.