Islamabad, Pakistan – Ayesha Khan, a mother of four, recently faced the challenge of rising sugar prices while shopping for her family’s groceries. With Ramadan in full swing, sugar has become an essential item on her list. Just a few miles away, government officials are working to address the soaring prices of this staple.
Khan, in her 30s, shared that this week marks the third time she has bought a five-kilogram bag of sugar since Ramadan began. “We all have a sweet tooth, and we love our sugary tea and rooh afza,” she said, referring to a popular rose-flavored drink.
Despite a general decline in inflation over the past year, sugar prices have surged by nearly 22 percent recently. In January, sugar cost around 140 rupees per kilogram, but by mid-March, it reached 171 rupees. This increase is a concern for many consumers, but some shoppers in Islamabad noted that the overall stability of prices for other essentials like milk and rice has helped them manage their budgets.
Mohammad Shehzad, a 27-year-old customer, was purchasing jalebi, a sweet dessert, and remarked that while prices typically rise during Ramadan, this year’s increases are manageable. “Our overall expenditure is under control,” he explained. Many families are adjusting their purchases but still indulging in sugary treats during the holy month.
Wajid Mehmood, who manages a dessert shop, mentioned that while his costs have gone up due to sugar price hikes, he has chosen not to raise prices during Ramadan. He expressed hope that prices would stabilize after the holiday.
Muhammad Zahid, a juice vendor, reported that his sugar needs have decreased during Ramadan, but he still faces fluctuating prices based on market conditions. He believes that some traders are hoarding sugar, anticipating higher demand during this festive period.
In response to the rising prices, the government has pledged to monitor the situation and prevent market manipulation. Deputy Prime Minister Ishaq Dar stated that they aim to keep sugar prices below 164 rupees per kilogram. The government is also addressing concerns about hoarding by traders who bought sugar at lower prices and are now holding onto it for profit.
Meanwhile, grocery store owners are noticing a slight drop in sugar sales due to the price increase. Mohammad Rashid, a shopkeeper in Islamabad, mentioned that his sales have decreased as customers adjust to the higher costs.
Despite the challenges, many families like Khan’s continue to prioritize sugar in their diets. Khan explained that her husband increases their monthly grocery budget during Ramadan to accommodate higher food costs. “We are currently building a small extension in our house, but we won’t stop buying sugar,” she said.
As Ramadan continues, the dynamics of sugar consumption and pricing remain a focal point for both consumers and the government. The balance between demand, pricing, and overall economic conditions will play a significant role in shaping the experiences of families throughout the month.