Farmers Warn Of 7900% Sugar Import Spike Threatening Economy

In a concerning development for Pakistan's agricultural economy, the Markazi Kisan League (MKL) has reported a staggering 7,906% increase in sugar imports, which they claim could devastate local sugarcane growers. MKL Chairman Chaudhry Zulfiqar Ali Olakh stated, "The surge in sugar imports threatens our agricultural economy and local farmers who are already struggling with high costs and government neglect." From July to January of the current fiscal year, sugar imports soared to over $17.46 million, a dramatic rise from just $211,800 during the same period last year. This alarming trend has prompted MKL to demand immediate government intervention to protect farmers and promote domestic sugar production, warning that failure to act could lead to severe repercussions for the national economy. The MKL's call for a review of import policies and timely payments to farmers highlights the urgency of the situation, as local growers face rising costs of fertilizers and water shortages.