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Sugarcane is one of Pakistan’s most vital cash crops, powering both the livelihoods of farmers and the country’s sugar industry. With the 2025–26 crushing season now underway, sugarcane rates in Pakistan are a hot topic across Punjab, Sindh, and other provinces. In this article, we break down the current sugar cane prices, government policies, regional differences, and what farmers can expect this season.
What Is the Sugar Cane Rate in Pakistan Today?
As of the 2024–25 season, the official sugarcane support price in Pakistan varies by province:
Punjab: Rs 400 per 40 kg (or per maund)
Sindh: Rs 425 per 40 kg
Proposed rates (national): Between Rs 425 to Rs 450 per 40 kg
Despite these fixed rates, some sugar mills are reportedly purchasing sugarcane at Rs 300 per 40 kg in certain regions, which is below the government-mandated prices, raising concerns about fair compensation for farmers.
Province-Wise Sugarcane Rate Breakdown
➤ Punjab
Official rate: Rs 400 per 40 kg
Enforcement: The Punjab Chief Minister has ordered strict action against mills or agents paying less than the fixed rate.
Daily inspections: Government teams will monitor weighing stations (forks) at purchasing centers.
Empowered Cane Commissioner: Now holds the authority to regulate sugar prices, prevent hoarding, and inspect storage or vehicles.
➤ Sindh
Official rate: Rs 425 per 40 kg — higher than Punjab.
Crushing season: Begins in November, with Matiari Sugar Mills usually starting early.
Additional support: Farmers are receiving Rs 5,000 per acre for seeds. Local committees are managing this process.
➤ Other Regions (e.g., Kashmir)
Rates may vary but largely follow Punjab’s benchmark.
Enforcement and compliance depend on local administrative orders.
Why Sugarcane Is Gaining Popularity Among Farmers
Due to changing climate conditions, sugarcane is emerging as a more resilient crop compared to traditional options like wheat or cotton. The federal government is under pressure to increase support prices, making sugarcane even more attractive.
Key reasons why farmers are turning to sugarcane:
Climate resilience: Sugarcane tolerates heat and water stress better.
Higher profitability: Stronger demand from sugar mills.
Government incentives: Direct seed subsidies and guaranteed pricing.
Economic Pressures on Sugarcane Farmers in 2024–25
Although the official rate is fixed, the rising cost of inputs is squeezing profits for farmers:
| Input | 2023 Price | 2024–25 Price | Increase |
|---|---|---|---|
| Diesel (per liter) | Rs 140 | Rs 255 | +Rs 115 |
| DAP Fertilizer (per bag) | Rs 7,500–8,000 | Rs 12,000 | +50% |
| Urea Fertilizer (per sack) | Rs 1,800 | Rs 2,400 | +Rs 600 |
With these costs, a minimum increase of Rs 75 per 40 kg in sugarcane rate was proposed, supporting the demand for a Rs 425–450 per 40 kg support price.
Government Actions & Regulatory Updates
To maintain order in the sugar market and ensure fair payments, several initiatives are underway:
Cane Commissioner, Punjab is now legally empowered to:
Search any vehicle suspected of hoarding sugar.
Check sugar stock records at mills.
Seal illegal weighing stations.
Fix sugar prices to curb market manipulation.
Crushing Start Date: Sugar mills were directed to begin crushing by October 28, 2024, to avoid delays that could lead to sugar shortages and price hikes.
Legal Consequences: Mills paying below the fixed price may face penalties and forced shutdowns.
Sugar Cane Rate Fluctuations – What Affects the Market?
Several factors influence sugarcane pricing in Pakistan:
Input Costs – Rising diesel and fertilizer costs directly impact farming expenses.
Climatic Conditions – Sugarcane performs better in extreme heat compared to other crops.
Supply vs. Demand – Delayed crushing or hoarding can reduce supply, pushing sugar prices up.
Government Policies – Changes in support prices, subsidies, and inspections greatly affect market behavior.
Sugar Crushing Calendar – Key Dates for Farmers
| Province | Crushing Season Start |
|---|---|
| Punjab | October 28, 2024 |
| Sindh | November 15, 2024 |
Mills that delay beyond these dates may cause sugar shortages, leading to a potential surge in sugar prices above Rs 140/kg.
Sugar Price Trends – Impact on Consumers
If the crushing season proceeds without delay, sugar prices may stabilize. However, any disruption or underpayment to farmers can reduce crop supply, resulting in:
Increased sugar prices in retail markets
Hoarding by wholesalers and mills
Potential import of sugar to meet demand
Tips for Farmers – How to Maximize Profit
Sell directly to registered sugar mills to avoid underpayment.
Verify weight at official weighing forks only.
Keep receipts and digital proof of sales.
Join farmer committees or cooperatives for bulk bargaining.
Use high-yield, climate-resistant cane varieties.
The sugar cane rate in Pakistan for 2025–26 is more than just a number — it reflects the intersection of economics, agriculture, and climate adaptation. While official rates are promising, enforcement remains the key to ensuring fairness. Farmers must remain informed and vigilant, while the government must ensure compliance to maintain market stability.
Fahad Munir is a seasoned journalist and editor at Awam PK, specializing in sharing accurate and timely news, job updates, and educational information to the Pakistani audience.
