Karachi Wholesalers Association (KWGA) Monday urged the federal government to slap immediate ban on sugar supply to Afghanistan to avert the looming sugar crisis. Sugar prices in the domestic market are already on increase reaching Rs 73.50 per kilogram in wholesale market.

Fearing sugar crisis, Anis Majeed, patron-in-chief and Malik Zulfiqar Ali, Chairman KWGA said that there is need to take measures to stop sugar delivery outside the country. The government should take effective measures to prevent the delivery of sugar to Afghanistan particularly via land route," they added.

They said sugar production is expected to be less than previous year, ie, between 50 and 55 million tons, some one million less than previous year.

"If sugar supply to Afghanistan is not stopped, the country may face a serious crisis like that of wheat," they added.

Sugar prices in the domestic market are soaring and the continued supply to Afghanistan is likely to further increase the price of sugar in the wholesale and retail markets. KWGA leaders said the government should adopt effective strategy and take some concrete measures to prevent potential sugar crisis.

They said KWGA is ready to cooperate with the government to ensure the availability of sugar at reasonable prices.