During Ramadan, Peshawar’s residents faced an unexpected hike in sugar prices, as both wholesale and retail rates soared.
The cost of sugar reached new heights just days before the start of the holy month.
In a significant rise, the price of a 50kg sugar sack in the Ram Pura wholesale market increased by Rs100, pushing it to Rs6,900. Meanwhile, retail shops started selling sugar at Rs170 per kilogram, following a Rs10-increase in just two days.
Traders attributed the surge in prices to a shortage of sugar in the country and an increase in demand during Ramadan. They expressed concerns that further price hikes could be imminent.
A trader leader from Ram Pura Market, said, “The shortage of sugar coupled with rising demand during Ramadan is the main reason behind the price increase. There is a possibility of further hikes.”
Despite promises from the Prime Minister’s office to provide sugar at a reduced price of Rs130 per kilogram during Ramadan, no affordable sugar stalls were set up in the city.
