Authorities have also added the names of at least 18 sugar mill owners to the Exit Control List (ECL).

Officials at the Ministry of National Food Security said that approximately 1.9 million metric tons of sugar, previously held by private mills, have now been brought under government control.

The decision was taken in light of growing concerns over an artificial shortage of sugar and the possibility of further price hikes.

To ensure transparency and prevent hoarding, agents from the Federal Board of Revenue (FBR) have been deployed at all sugar mills to monitor stocks.

In addition, a track-and-trace system has been implemented to regulate sugar stock movements.