The federal cabinet has approved the import of 500,000 tons of sugar to address supply-demand imbalances and stabilise prices in the domestic market, the Ministry of National Food Security and Research said on Tuesday.

According to an official statement, the sugar will be imported through the government sector, with all necessary arrangements reportedly finalised. The ministry confirmed that the procurement process is being launched immediately to avoid a potential crisis in sugar availability.

The move follows a recent high-level meeting chaired by Finance Minister Ishaq Dar, in which earlier recommendations for sugar imports were reaffirmed.

Officials said the measure was taken in view of consumer protection and broader economic stability.

A spokesperson for the food security ministry emphasised that the current import strategy differs from those implemented by previous administrations.

“Unlike past practices where artificial shortages were created and subsidies burdened the national exchequer, the present government allowed sugar exports when there was surplus and has now opted to import strictly on the basis of actual requirement,” the spokesperson noted.

They added that the decision is a proactive step to prevent market manipulation and ensure that sugar prices remain within affordable limits for consumers.

The announcement comes amid rising public concern over inflationary pressures, particularly the escalating prices of essential commodities such as sugar and petroleum products. Earlier this week, the Supreme Court Bar Association also expressed alarm over the sharp hikes in utility and food costs, calling for urgent policy responses to protect the public from further hardship.