According to the initial plans, the federal government decided to procure a total of 500,000 tons of sugar; 300,000 metric tons through the TCP, while the other 200,000 metric tons through the private sector.

As per the new tender released by TCP, it has invited international suppliers and dealers to submit bids by July 22, 2025, to dispense only 50,000 metric tons.

Earlier, the International Monetary Fund (IMF) had voiced concerns over the proposed tax subsidies on sugar imports. According to the IMF, such subsidies could potentially impact Pakistan’s ongoing $7 billion loan programme, prompting the government to reconsider its import policy and fiscal approach.

Authorities are also reviewing the possibility of withdrawing tax exemptions granted to the private sector for sugar imports.