The Pakistan Sugar Mills Association (PSMA) called for the early export of sugar and the deregulation of the industry during a General Body meeting on Wednesday, November 11, 2026. The meeting took place simultaneously in Lahore, Karachi, and Islamabad, with mill owners from across the country in attendance.
During discussions regarding the current state of the sugar industry, mill owners from Punjab, Sindh, and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa expressed concern that the government has not yet allowed the export of an agreed-upon quota. The owners noted that while 200,000 tonnes of exports were approved, a surplus of approximately 1.1 million metric tonnes of sugar remains in the country. Because of these stock levels, mill owners stated they are currently unable to start their mills.
The members unanimously agreed that it will not be possible to begin the 2026-27 crushing season before December due to the existing stock. The General Body gave full authority to the association’s Executive Committee to approach the government to demand permission for the early export of 400,000 metric tons of surplus sugar and the release of a long-awaited deregulation policy.
The General Body stressed that a deregulation policy is now imperative because another substantial surplus of sugar is expected by the end of the 2026–27 crushing season. The association warned that without timely policy action, the industry will face financial strain and continued stock accumulation.
The association expressed hope that the government would resolve these issues for the benefit of the industry, farmers, and the national economy. It was decided that mill owners will hold a press conference in Lahore on November 16, 2026, to determine a future course of action. Additionally, it was proposed that the PSMA write a formal letter to the Deputy Prime Minister to request a meeting to discuss the challenges facing the industry.
