ISLAMABAD: Official documents have revealed detailed figures of Pakistan’s raw sugar imports and exports over the past decade, shedding light on structural weaknesses and missed opportunities in the country’s sugar industry.
According to documents from the Ministry of Industries, Pakistan imported raw sugar worth $314 million between 2015 and 2025. During the same period, the country exported sugar valued at $1.60 to $1.67 billion, reflecting a higher export value but inconsistent trade performance.
Despite being a major producer, Pakistan’s sugar exports remained limited and irregular throughout the decade.
Pakistan among top producers
Official data confirms that Pakistan is the seventh largest sugar-producing country in the world. However, its share in global sugar production stands at only 6%, highlighting underutilization of its production potential.
The country remains heavily dependent on local sugarcane production, with minimal diversification in raw material sources.
Documents show that the area under sugarcane cultivation increased to 1.195 million hectares over the last 10 years. Annual sugarcane production in Pakistan stands at approximately 79 million metric tons.
Sugar production rose from 4.8 million tons in 2019–20 to 7.8 million tons in 2021–22, reflecting significant year-on-year growth.
Beet sugar contribution remains negligible
The Ministry of Industries documents reveal that sugar production from beet accounts for only 1.16% of total output in Pakistan. This indicates an overwhelming reliance on sugarcane rather than alternative crops.
Experts say this lack of diversification adds to production risks and supply volatility.
Only 60% of industrial sugar requirements are met during Pakistan’s 100-day crushing season, according to official data. As a result, nearly 40 percent of production capacity in sugar mills is lost, leading to inefficiencies and higher costs.
These losses significantly weaken Pakistan’s competitiveness in the global sugar market.
Value-addition opportunity
Documents highlight a consistent price difference between raw and refined sugar in international markets. On average, the gap stands at $73 per ton, offering a strong opportunity for value addition.
In 2023, refined sugar was priced at $660 per ton, while raw sugar stood at $570 per ton. In 2024, the price difference narrowed to $54 per ton, but still remained commercially attractive.
Officials note that the price differential between raw and refined sugar provides a major opportunity for Pakistan to increase exports through refining and processing. However, inconsistent export policies, capacity losses, and planning gaps have limited the sector’s growth.
The Ministry of Industries documents stress that addressing inefficiencies could significantly enhance foreign exchange earnings and industrial output.
