In a bid to stabilise domestic sugar prices, the government had planned to import 100,000 metric tons of sugar — but the tender was canceled after offers from all three bidding companies were found unsatisfactory in terms of price and quality.
Tender cancelled amid concerns over cost, quality
According to official sources, the government rejected all bids for the import of 100,000 metric tons of sugar after the rates quoted were deemed too high, and the quality of the sugar offered did not meet required standards.
Two companies quoted rates between $539 and $567 per ton for fine sugar, while another offered $599 per ton for medium-grade sugar — prices the government labelled as unacceptable.
Also Read: Pakistan to import 500,000 tonnes of sugar to stabilize prices
Imported sugar found substandard
Beyond pricing concerns, the size and quality of sugar grains offered in the bids did not align with government specifications. Officials emphasized that no compromise will be made on product quality during procurement, especially when the goal is to ease market pressure without risking public dissatisfaction.
Logistics costs add to burden
Sources say that in addition to the high per-ton price, the government would also have to bear significant logistical expenses, including:
-
Cargo handling charges at Karachi Port
-
Unloading and trucking costs
-
Transportation expenses to move the sugar to local markets
Also Read: Govt to import 50,000 tons of sugar instead of 300,000 in phase-I
These added costs would make the already expensive sugar even more burdensome for the national treasury.
Phased import plan still on
Despite the canceled tender, the government remains committed to its larger plan of importing 500,000 metric tons of sugar in phases. Officials clarified that a new tender is under consideration, but strict conditions will be maintained to ensure transparency, fair pricing, and acceptable quality standards.
Also Read: Rs300bn sugar scandal uncovered; Zardari named largest mill owner
“The government will not make any deal that goes against national interest or violates import rules,” a senior source said, stressing that no illegal steps would be taken in the process.
