Sugar crisis intensifies: Utility stores run short of essential commodity

 An abrupt shortage of subsidized sugar at the state-run outlets once more has forced citizens to purchase expensive sugar from the open market, reported the 24NewsHD TV channel.

According to sources, sugar stock at utility stores has almost depleted, and new acquisition has yet to materialize, creating problems for consumers.

The sources said that the Utility Stores Corporation’s hesitation to make an immediate purchase of sugar may lead to protract supply chain issues.

Sources said utility stores recently canceled 2 tenders due to high bids

In some tenders, utility stores did not receive bids at all, sources said.

The Utility Stores Corporation enjoyed access to sugar in the past month, but the situation has now regressed.

Prior to this, the corporation faced a two-month-long crisis in the procurement of sugar.

Efforts to procure sugar continue, and next week, a tender for 40,000 tons of sugar is set to open, aiming to end the shortage.

The sources said the authorities are actively working to address the ongoing challenges in the supply of essential goods to utility stores.

 

Reporter: Waqas Azeem