Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has established a high-level committee with the mandate to develop proposals for the deregulation, reform, and potential privatization of the sugar sector.
Details released on Thursday indicate that the committee is required to submit its report within 30 days. Chaired by the Federal Minister for Energy, with the Secretary of the Ministry of Industries and Production serving as convener, the committee comprises the Minister for Finance, Minister for National Food Security, Minister for Economic Affairs, SAPM Rana Naseem, and Coordinator for Agriculture Ahmed Omar.
The committee will examine existing laws, rules, and policies governing the sugar industry at both federal and provincial levels. It will address critical issues related to sugar production, import and export, pricing mechanisms, subsidies, and hoarding.
Recommendations will be formulated based on considerations of reserves, supply, pricing, and the rights and needs of both farmers and consumers.
Stakeholder consultation will be undertaken to ensure transparency throughout the proposed privatization process.
